The LINC programme provided five local and combined authorities with funding to help them develop the capability to secure private finance for local nature-based priorities. It aimed to develop a pipeline of investment-ready natural capital projects that would generate revenue and returns while also directing investment towards protecting and enhancing the domestic natural environment.
The Local Investment in Natural Capital (LINC) programme provided up to £5 million over 2023–2026 to five pioneering local and combined authorities, helping them build the capability to attract private finance for nature recovery. Initiated by Defra and led by the Environment Agency, the pilot aimed to develop investment‑ready natural capital projects and finance mechanisms that deliver returns for investors while addressing local environmental priorities.
Sharing learning and best practice is a core component of the programme. The authorities funded through LINC are:
With the programme concluding in March 2026, its insights are being shared for wider use by local authorities and other organisations. Working with Ecorys, the Environment Agency, and Defra, the LINC cohort produced six how-to guides to help authorities and environmental NGOs understand practical models for securing natural capital investment. In addition, Ecosystems Knowledge Network (EKN) hosted two webinars on LINC-supported projects.
LINC supports Cornwall’s landowners and farmers to develop natural capital projects and connect with funders. It offers investment-ready initiatives ranging from tree planting and wildflower meadows to seagrass restoration and urban habitats.
These nature‑based solutions aid climate adaptation, flood management, and nature recovery, helping Cornwall progress toward the efficient management of 30% of its land, rivers, and sea for nature by 2030.
The North East Combined Authority has used its LINC funding to launch the Carbon and Nature Marketplace, the first combined authority‑led platform linking private investors with high‑integrity nature recovery and decarbonisation projects.
Launched in 2025, it lists only vetted, feasible and deliverable projects. Free for buyers and sellers, it supports funding bids, verified carbon credits, and Biodiversity Net Gain offset projects across the region.
The WMCA is developing a strong pipeline of natural capital projects to attract major investment and to support the priorities of the West Midlands Natural Environment Plan. As the only major urban area in DEFRA’s two‑year LINC programme, it will gain greater environmental powers and funding to deliver nature‑based solutions, a Local Nature Recovery Strategy, and improved air quality.
A 2024 Natural Environment Summit and an online Basecamp forum further support project development and collaboration.
Ullswater Catchment Management CIC has launched a refreshed project pipeline, website, and film showcasing its work with farmers to restore resilience in the Lake District. It designs practical, fundable projects that support the shift to Environmental Land Management schemes while improving soils, water, biodiversity, and flood protection.
Working at a catchment scale, it delivers nature‑based solutions including natural flood management, hedgerows, habitat creation, and soil restoration to benefit farms and communities.
York and North Yorkshire aim to be England’s first carbon‑negative region by 2040, supported by a Routemap focused on energy, circular economy, and natural capital. The LINC programme will help attract investment into nature recovery, growing the natural capital economy, and supporting projects such as peatland restoration, tree planting, and marine solutions.
It will also develop an Investment Plan, project pipeline, and business cases for long‑term funding models.
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