Action Program for Natural Climate Protection (ANK)

The Natural Climate Protection Action Program (ANK) in Brandenburg enables public institutions, companies, and non-profit organizations to receive funding in the form of a non-repayable grant for measures related to the renaturation and restoration of moors, water bodies, and green spaces. Primarily supported are investment projects aimed at soil de-sealing, the establishment of near-natural water cycles, and the improvement of biodiversity on municipal or operational land in rural areas. Accompanied by qualified experts, applicants receive assistance with planning, implementation support, and success monitoring of the measures. The funding rate ranges between 80% and 90% of eligible expenses, depending on the municipality's financial capacity. Applicants must legally and economically own the property and ensure sustainable use at least until 2045. The project duration is up to 24 months, with initial projects able to commence from January 1, 2024. Following a positive review by the project sponsor ZUG gGmbH, the funding decision is made based on evaluation criteria such as climate protection contribution, biodiversity promotion, funding efficiency, as well as public relations and participation.

For the application, a two-stage submission of a project outline via the "easy-Online" portal is required by December 31, 2026. In the outline phase, project ideas are evaluated, followed by formal funding applications in the subsequent stage. Funding recipients conduct annual status meetings and undergo random on-site inspections. Eligible expenses include planning and consulting costs, investment costs for renaturation and technical equipment, planting costs, and project-related personnel. Ineligible expenses include building construction, ongoing administrative costs, value-added tax, as well as research and development. Overall, ANK Brandenburg provides funding to strengthen ecosystems as natural climate protectors in the long term and to preserve them as habitats for flora and fauna.