Ready to become a nature conservation hero?

Here are five tips

for a winning European Natura 2000 Award application.

Tip number one:

We want to hear YOUR story,

but think about how best to tell it!

Tell it in a way that inspires others!

Choose a small, well-defined set of measurable results

linked to at least one Natura 2000 site.

If your work spans many years

or covers many sites,

highlight the strongest,

most concrete

and impactful outcomes.

A clear story will help evaluators understand your initiative

and score it more effectively.

Tip number two:

Demonstrating the effectiveness of your achievements

counts for up to 50% of your score.

Start by reading the selection criteria.

If possible,

give measurable evidence

such as percentages,

surface areas,

or population counts.

If data is unavailable,

tell us why

and provide a qualitative explanation.

Clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of your activities

as independent evaluators will assess your application

based solely on the information you provide.

Tip number three:

Choose the category that best fits your application.

Read the category descriptions

and select the one closest to the story you want to tell.

Unsure?

Consider a category

that is likely to receive fewer applications.

Categories determine which pool of applications

you will compete in,

so choose the closest match.

Even if the fit isn't perfect,

your application will still be evaluated.

Tip number four:

If your application is eligible,

it will be displayed on the award website

for all to see.

So make it promotion-ready.

Choose a memorable title,

and write a short summary,

both in clear English!

Send us high-quality photos and/or videos.

Make sure you have the rights

and everyone's consent

for everything you submit,

and that the Natura 2000 logo

appears on your website and materials.

We will do the rest!

If your application is eligible,

the promotional information

will be used across award and European Commission channels,

and for the public vote if shortlisted.

Tip number five:

Precision matters.

Use reliable data and official sources

and be as detailed

as the available space allows.

Use the Natura 2000 viewer

to make sure you provide the official name,

site code

and type of each Natura 2000 site you mentioned.

Check each site’s Standard Data Form

for any targeted habitat types and species.

We only need to hear about the most important sites,

habitat types and species.

Before submitting,

check the Eligibility and Selection criteria,

and make sure all fields are completed.

Accurate information also helps ensure

that all partners and funders

receive the recognition they deserve.

Why delay?

Aply to become a Natura 2000 hero today!

Still have questions?

Check the Application process page on our website

or contact the helpdesk.

Good luck!