Table of Contents
🌍 Overview
The Due Diligence Fund (DDF) 5th Call for Proposals 2026 is now open, offering significant funding opportunities for innovative partnerships working to strengthen human rights and environmental due diligence (HREDD) in global agricultural supply chains.
Implemented on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and managed by GIZ, this fund supports transformative, scalable, and practical solutions that go beyond compliance to create sustainable and ethical supply chains.
With grants of up to €250,000, the initiative supports impactful projects that improve working conditions, protect the environment, and promote inclusive development—especially in developing countries.
📘 About the Due Diligence Fund (DDF)
The Due Diligence Fund is a strategic funding mechanism designed to promote responsible business practices in global agricultural supply chains.
It enables companies and organizations to implement effective due diligence systems addressing environmental risks and human rights concerns.
🎯 Core Objectives of the DDF
- Promote innovative and practical HREDD approaches
- Strengthen sustainable agricultural supply chains
- Improve living and working conditions of primary producers
- Encourage partnerships between private sector and non-profits
- Generate scalable and transferable solutions
🚀 What is New in the 5th Call (DDF5)
The fifth funding round builds on previous cycles and introduces an enhanced structure.
Key Highlights:
- Two funding windows available
- Grants of up to €250,000 per project
- Focus on larger, more comprehensive initiatives
- Strong emphasis on scalability and innovation
- Alignment with global and EU due diligence regulations
💰 What the Fund Offers
Selected projects receive more than just funding:
1. Financial Support
- Grants up to €250,000
- Co-financing required from EU-based companies (depending on size)
2. Technical Assistance
- Expert guidance during project design and implementation
- Support on HREDD and sustainability practices
3. Global Network Access
- Connections with international partners and stakeholders
- Access to knowledge-sharing platforms
4. Visibility & Knowledge Sharing
- Public dissemination of project results
- Contribution to industry best practices
🌱 Focus Areas & Thematic Priorities
Projects should address key issues in agricultural supply chains, including:
- Deforestation-free supply chains
- Climate change & biodiversity protection
- Digital inclusion in agriculture
- Gender equality & social inclusion
- Living incomes and fair wages
Special emphasis is placed on gender equality, aligning with the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
⚖️ Why HREDD Matters
Global agricultural supply chains are increasingly required to address environmental and human rights risks through international frameworks such as:
- UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
- OECD Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct
- German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG)
- EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD)
- EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR)
These frameworks make due diligence essential for responsible and sustainable business operations.
📊 Programme Impact
The DDF has already supported:
- 30 projects across 4 funding rounds
- Innovative sustainable agriculture solutions
- Practical approaches benefiting supply chain actors
📝 How to Apply
Step 1: Review Documents
- Terms and Conditions
- Application templates (Short Proposal & Concept Note)
Step 2: Prepare Application
- Use FAQ and checklist
- Attend optional Q&A sessions
Step 3: Submit Application
- Submit via email: ddf@giz.de
- Follow instructions in templates
📅 Deadline: 15 June 2026 (23:59 CEST)
🔗 Important Links
👉 Read full details:
https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/2026/04/14/due-diligence-fund-ddf-5th-call-for-proposals-2026-up-to-e250000-grants-for-sustainable-agricultural-supply-chain-projects/
👉 Official program page:
https://www.sustainable-supply-chains.org/funds-projects/due-diligence-fund/
📢 Conclusion
The Due Diligence Fund (DDF) 5th Call for Proposals 2026 is a powerful opportunity for organizations and companies to drive sustainable transformation in agricultural supply chains.
With strong financial support, expert guidance, and global networking opportunities, this program enables impactful solutions that improve both people’s lives and environmental sustainability.
