FSC Canada is inviting forest managers, Indigenous communities, smallholders, and certificate holders to participate in its new Forests as Climate Solutions pilot projects, launching July 1, 2025. Funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada, the project aims to strengthen climate resilience and carbon management practices in FSC-certified forests while supporting Indigenous stewardship and conservation financing mechanisms.
Launched under FSC Canada's Climate and Landscape Solutions Program, the initiative is a key part of FSC’s mission to support responsible forest management across Canada’s 46.6 million hectares of certified forests. The project is designed to improve how forests are managed in response to climate change and wildfire risk, with an emphasis on carbon storage, biodiversity protection, and support for communities on the frontlines of forest stewardship.
About the Pilots
The project focuses on three key goals:
- Building climate adaptation capacity among certificate holders and communities.
- Enhancing carbon storage and forest health to stabilize or reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Accessing emerging conservation finance tools to reward climate-smart forestry practices.
FSC Canada is seeking applications for pilot projects that demonstrate innovation in these areas. Selected applicants will receive funding and support to implement, test, and evaluate new tools and methodologies for carbon and fire management.
Who Can Apply
Pilots fall into three categories:
- Indigenous-led Pilots: Led by Indigenous organizations, communities, or collectives.
- Smallholder and Community Pilots: Involving smallholders, woodlot owners, or community-based forest operations.
- FSC Forest Management Certificate Holder Pilots: Intended for certificate holders managing to FSC Canada's National Forest Stewardship Standard.
Each category will receive up to $33,000 in funding, with 1–2 projects selected per category. A minimum of 50% in-kind match is required, which may include staff time, existing work, Indigenous knowledge, or other resources.
Application Details
Deadline to apply: June 16, 2025
Pilot duration: July 1, 2025 – March 1, 2026
Application form: Apply here via SurveyMonkey
Projects will be evaluated on alignment with Forests as Climate Solutions goals, clarity of outcomes, feasibility, and commitment to knowledge-sharing. Selected applicants will be required to submit a final report and participate in a learning exchange to share insights and outcomes with peers.
For more information, contact info@ca.fsc.org.