MATRA/KNIP

KNIP is the abbreviation of small nature protection initiative project. It offers groups financial support for various projects in the field of nature management. Interest groups and community organizations, which meet the criteria, may apply to the Office of the Agricultural Counselor of the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Moscow for a grant.

What projects are eligible for a KNIP grant?

In general, projects that promote the so-called 'green' nature will be eligible for funding. Green nature can be defined as nature management and conservation, inventories of protected species and preservation actions for threatened species. It differs from the so-called 'grey' nature, which aims at environmental issues concerning nuclear wastes, industrial pollution, ecological pollution and diseases.

Priority will be given to projects with following themes:

Development and implementation biodiversity:

Promotion of biodiversity strategies and ecological networks; the Pan-European Ecological Network; the implementation of national action plans; the integration of nature management in other policy areas.
The promotion of nature management partnerships; collaboration with other public bodies, non-profit organizations, private enterprise and research institutes; encourage public participation; strengthen financial basis.
Protection and management of nature areas:
Protection and management of nature areas, ecosystems (especially wetlands, coastal zones and forests); the protection of migratory routes; the exchange of ecosystem expertise.
Strengthen the relationship between sustainable agriculture and nature management.
Who is eligible for a KNIP grant?

To qualify for support under the KNIP fund, the project must meet the following general criteria:

It must be consistent with the objectives of the program.
The target group must be clearly identified and actively involved in the implementation of the project (contact information of the organization and proof of registration)
Funding may not be spent on facility building (rent, wages, phone bills, overheads)
Applicants should formulate the proposal themselves, on the basis of the guidelines offered in the application form. To view the application form click  here. In case questions arise, applicants may consult the Office of the Agricultural Counselor (T. +7 095 797 2946 or e-mail  mos-lnv@minbuza.nl).

KNIP funds are limited, so approval of project proposals may have to be withheld even when all of the above requirements are met. Upon completion of the project, or after the funding has been spent, the grantee must submit the project accounts and a report on the results or progress of the project. The Office of the Agricultural Counselor may at any time inspect the accounts and the project activities.