Funding for Conservation Research and Science

African Bird Club: Bird Research and Conservation (Africa) http://www.africanbirdclub.org/index.html

The African Bird Club is a UK-based organization represented in over 30 countries, mainly in Africa.

The ABC Conservation Awards help support small and medium-sized bird conservation projects in Africa. Applicants should be resident in Africa. Most awards are £1,000 or less.

The ABC Expedition Awards take place within continental Africa or adjacent islands, with a strong base in conservation and birds. Grants are up to £1,500.

Three application deadlines per year.

American Museum of Natural History: Research and Fellowships http://rggs.amnh.org/pages/academics_and_research/fellowship_and_grant_opportunities

The American Museum of Natural History offers academic fellowships and research grants in biology, ecology, zoology, wildlife conservation, paleontology, anthropology, and some fields of the physical sciences.

Most awards are for students and young professionals in various categories – university students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior scientists.

Programs of field grants with international applicability include the Lerner-Gray Grants (marine zoology), and the Frank M. Chapman Grants (ornithology).

Annual application deadlines.

American Orchid Society: Recognition Awards for Orchid Conservation http://www.aos.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Conservation_Awards&Template=/CM/HTMLDisplay.cfm&ContentID=5917

The American Orchid Society sponsors Conservation Recognition Awards for outstanding work in orchid conservation. Applicants are students, amateurs, and professionals actively engaged in the study or conservation of native orchids. Awards are for US$500 and US$250.

Annual application deadline.

American Ornithologists Union: Bird Research and Capacity Building (Latin America)http://www.aou.org/awards/

The American Ornithologists Union offers research grants for students and post-doctoral researchers in avian biology. Additionally, the AOU offers grants to strengthen ornithological societies in the Americas.

Both types of grants are open to applicants from Latin America.

Research grants are limited to US$2,500. Grants for ornithological societies are US$1,000 to US$3,000. Annual application deadlines.

American Society of Mammologists: Research and Conservation (Latin America) http://www.mammalsociety.org/whatsnew/grants.html

The ASM makes grants in several categories to support research of students and young professionals, including for work in Latin America.

The Latin American Student Field Research award supports field projects by Latin American graduate students (grants are US$1,500). The Oliver P. Pearson award supports a young professional who holds an academic position in a Latin American institution (grants are up to US$7,000). Other ASM grant programs may also be relevant.

Annual application deadlines.

American Society of Primatologists: Primate Research and Conservation http://www.asp.org/grants/index.html

The American Society of Primatologists (ASP) offers a variety of grants and awards.

Research Grants are for training initiatives, start-up funds, supplementary funding for students, and innovations in animal care and research technology. Most grants are to university students. Grants are up to US$1,500.

Conservation Awards and Grants support field projects in habitat countries. Grants are up to US$1,500.

ASP also presents achievement prizes to students and senior primatologists. Some prizes provide financial honorariums.

Annual application deadlines.

Animal Behavior Society: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://animalbehaviorsociety.org/

The Animal Behavior Society is a nonprofit scientific society with worldwide membership; most current members are in North, Central, and South America. The ABS offers Student Research Grants; Developing Nations Research Grants; and other grants and awards.

Student Research Grants range from US$500 to US$2,000 each. Applicants are enrolled in graduate university programs, and are ABS members.

Developing Nations Research Grants range from US$500 to US$800. These grants fund studies of animal behavior by graduate students and established research professionals where other funding for research is difficult to obtain. Applicants can be from any developing country Annual application deadline.

Association of Avian Veterinarians: Bird Research and Conservation http://www.aav.org/resources/index.php?content=grants

The Association of Avian Veterinarians makes research grants that address clinical aspects of exotic and wild birds (diagnostic tests, drug doses, practice management, and conservation).

Grants are limited to US$10 thousand per project. Annual application deadline.

Association of Field Ornithologists: Bird Field Studies in Latin America http://www.afonet.org/grants/index.html

The Association of Field Ornithologists offers grants for field studies of birds through the

Bergstrom Research Award and the Skutch Research Award. The Bergstrom Award is for work in North America and Latin America; the Skutch Award is for work in Latin America.

Grants are made to students, amateurs, and professional ornithologists (see specific eligibility criteria for each Award). The Skutch award is up to US$10,000. The maximum Bergstrom award is US$1,500.

Annual application deadline.

Association of Zoos and Aquariums: Grants to Zoos and Aquariums http://www.aza.org/cef/

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums sponsors the Conservation Endowment Fund for grants to AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums in partnership with other conservation organizations.

Grants are made in several categories: animal health; animal welfare; conservation education; field conservation and/or re-introduction; management and/or breeding; and research. Each principal investigator in a proposal to AZA must have an AZA membership.

Average grant size is about US$17,000. Annual application deadline.

Australia and Pacific Science Foundation: Ecology Research and Conservation (Pacific Region) http://www.apscience.org.au/

The Australia and Pacific Science Foundation encourages high-quality research for improved systems of managing land, water, plants, and animals. Funded projects include topics in ecology, species biology, species distribution, plant and animal classification, vegetation management, conservation strategies, and others.

Most grants are to researchers in universities, zoological and botanical gardens, natural history museums, and other research centers and institutes in Australia and the Pacific Island countries.

The Foundation normally provides grants up to A$15 thousand per year (for up to three years). Annual application deadline.

Bat Conservation International: Bat Research and Conservation http://www.batcon.org/index.php/what-we-do/grants.html

Bat Conservation International (BCI) offers grants and scholarships for bat research and conservation. The categories of support are: Student Research Scholarships; Global Grassroots Bat Conservation (outside North America); and North American Bat Conservation Fund.

BCI invites university graduate students worldwide for the Research Scholarships. The Global Grassroots grants are for conservationists and researchers in developing countries.

Grants are under US$5,000. Annual application deadlines.

BBVA Foundation: Research in Conservation Biology (Latin America) http://www.fbbva.es/TLFU/tlfu/esp/areas/medioamb/novedades/index.jsp

The BBVA Foundation of Spain funds research projects, training and scholarships, scientific meetings, and awards (i.e., prizes).  Themes include biodiversity conservation, and research in ecology and conservation biology.

Several initiatives focus on projects in Latin America, and collaboration between partners in Spain

and Latin America.

Grants for projects in ecology and conservation biology do not exceed €200 thousand per project.The Foundation announces calls for research proposals as well as calls for award nominations, with application deadlines.

British Ecological Society: Grants and Fellowships (especially Africa) http://www.britishecologicalsociety.org/grants/

The BES makes grants and awards in several categories, some of which are available to ecologists outside of the UK.

These include overseas bursaries and fellowships to support the ecological research of African nationals; travel grants to enable ecologists from developing countries to participate in the BES annual meeting or symposium; and early career grants for individuals who do not have other sources of support.

BES posts application information and submission deadlines for each of its grant schemes.

British Ornithologists Union: Bird Research and Conservation http://www.birdgrants.org/

The British Ornithologists Union makes research grants on any aspect of ornithology in the UK and internationally. It welcomes applications from amateurs and professionals.

Most grants are £1,000, and exceptional grants are up to £2,000. Annual application deadline.

Chester Zoo: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.chesterzoo.org/WhatWeDo/Field%20Programmes/Grants.aspx

The Chester Zoo offers NEZS Conservation and Research Grants to support a variety of conservation projects around the world.

The major criteria for grants are conservation impact, and opportunities to link the Zoo’s ex situ activities and its in situ outreach support. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Additionally, the Zoo supports the Jaguar Small Grants as a part of the Jaguar Conservation Program. When funding is available in this program, the Zoo posts information to its website.

Chicago Zoological Society: Research on Threatened and Endangered Species http://www.czs.org/czs/cbotgrant.aspx

The Chicago Zoological Society administers the Chicago Board of Trade - Endangered Species Fund. Grants are made to researchers in themes of protection of threatened and endangered species, and protection of habitats of high biological value that are substantially threatened. Priority is to researchers resident in the developing countries.

Grants are under US$5 thousand. Annual application deadline.

China Bird Watching Network: Bird Studies in China http://www.chinabirdnet.org/ccfund.html

The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society established the HKBWS China Conservation Fund to make grants for projects on bird studies and bird watching in China.

Grants are up to HK$10,000. Application information is in Chinese.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.clemetzoo.com/conservation/grants/

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo makes grants through the Scott Neoptropical Fund; Africa Seeds Grants, and Asia Seed Grants. Projects support research and conservation on animal wildlife and their habitats, and programs that involve local people in relation to wildlife conservation.

Applications to the Scott Neotropical Fund should be led by a neotropical resident; applications to the Seed Grants have no restrictions by residence or nationality. Grants by the Scott Fund are US$3,000 to US$5,000. The Seed Grants (Africa and Asia) are US$1,000 to US$3,500.

Annual application deadlines.

Club 300 Foundation for Bird Protection: Bird Research and Conservation http://www.club300.se/Birdprot/Birdprotection.aspx

The Club 300 Foundation for Bird Protection manages a bird protection fund, financed mainly by Swedish bird watchers. The Foundation makes grants for bird conservation worldwide. Grants from the Club 300 Foundation are available to everyone.

Maximum grant size is US$5 thousand.  Annual application deadline.

Columbus Zoo: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://contribute.columbuszoo.org/conservation/conservation_around_the_world/default.aspx

The Columbus Zoo’s Conservation Grants Program funds conservation research, education, capacity building, and community involvement in countries around the world. The program makes about 70 grants per year.

Grants range from US$1,000 to US$20,000. First-time applicants are limited to US$5,000. Proposals are reviewed each month, and decisions are made each quarter.

Darwin Initiative: Conservation Research and Capacity Building http://darwin.defra.gov.uk/

The Darwin Initiative is a program of the UK government (Defra) to fund partnerships between UK institutions and institutions in developing countries for biodiversity conservation. Projects include capacity building, training, research, projects to implement the Biodiversity Convention, and environmental education and awareness. 

Grant recipients are public and private institutions in the UK with expertise in the biodiversity field. The UK institutions collaborate with one or more partner institutions in eligible host countries. The Darwin Initiative also supports fellowships for promising participants of recent or current Darwin projects from developing countries for work experience in the UK.

The different awards are scoping awards, main awards, post-project funding, and fellowships. Darwin’s web site posts application guidelines and submission deadlines in each category.

Earthwatch Institute: Grants for Conservation Field Studies http://www.earthwatch.org/

The Earthwatch Institute defines itself as among the world’s largest private supporters of scientific field expeditions.  Its grants annually support about 100 field research projects, and placement of about 3,500 volunteer field assistants from about 80 countries.

General program areas are:  Field Research Programs; Engaging the Public in Conservation; and Capacity in Developing Countries.

Earthwatch is organized by different world regions. Potentially interested applicants consult the respective websites for their regions to learn of available opportunities and application details.

Explorers Club: Grants for Conservation Field Studies http://www.explorers.org/index.php/expeditions/funding/funding

The Explorers Club promotes the scientific exploration of land, sea, air, and space by supporting research and education in physical, natural, and biological sciences. Interests include: ecology and natural history; bio-geography; interactions between humans and natural systems; and archaeology related to natural systems.

Programs are the Youth Activity Fund; Exploration Fund; and Scott Pearlman Field Awards. Most grants are less than US$1,500 (with some exceptions). Nationality is not a criterion for the awards.

Annual application deadline.

Field Museum: Grants in Natural History http://www.fieldmuseum.org/research_collections/scholarships/default.htm

The Field Museum (Chicago, USA) offers grants and fellowships to visiting scientists and students for research and training on the Museum’s scientific collections.

Grants are open on a competitive basis to all individuals in the international scholarly community working on problems related to natural history. Annual application deadlines.

French Research Institute for Development: Grants for Young Researchers http://www.ird.fr/

The French Research Institute for Development (IRD -- Institut de Recherche pour le Developpement) manages scientific programs on the relation between man and the environment in the tropical developing countries. IRD’s research and capacity building includes themes on biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, climate change, and others.

Important for researchers in the developing countries, IRD invests in support grants for young research teams (JEAI), as well as in support of individual researchers. 

IRD uses its website to announce calls for research proposals, fellowship applications, and nominations for research prizes. 

G. Unger Vetlesen Foundation: Research Grants http://www.monellvetlesen.org/vetlesen/default.htm

The G. Unger Vetlesen Foundation makes grants for marine and ocean conservation, earth sciences, climate change, and wildlife management.

Among the Foundation’s grant recipients are numerous educational and scientific institutions, and a few conservation NGOs. Most grant recipients have their principal offices in the USA. 

Grants range from US$10 thousand to over US$1 million.  Interested grant seekers submit a letter of inquiry at any time during the year.

Garden Club of America: Research Grants for Students and Young Professionals

http://www.gcamerica.org/scholarships.php3

The GCA offers several types of grants, fellowships, and prizes that have international dimensions.

The Award in Tropical Botany (in partnership with WWF) enables doctoral candidates topursue independent field studies in tropical botany (systematics and ecology). Grants are for US$5,500.

The Anne S. Chatham Fellowship in Medicinal Botany (in partnership with the Missouri Botanical Garden) is open to Ph.D. candidates and recent Ph.D.s to protect and preserve knowledge about medicinal uses of plants. Grants are for US$4,000.

The Loy McCandless Marks Scholarship in Tropical Horticulture enables graduate students and advanced undergraduates at U.S. universities and colleges to study at leading international institutions that specialize in tropical plants.

Other GCA grant-making programs may also be relevant.

Annual application deadlines (vary by category of award).

Global Biodiversity Information Facility: Research in Biosystematics http://www.gbif.org/communications/news-and-events/ebbe-nielsen-prize/

The Global Biodiversity Information Facility administers the Ebbe Nielsen Prize awarded to a promising researcher who combines biosystematics and biological diversity informatics. The Prize consists of €30,000 to be used by the recipient for research.

Annual application deadline.

Idea Wild: Equipment in Support of Conservation Research http://www.ideawild.org/

Idea Wild provides equipment and supplies in support of biodiversity conservation in developing countries.  This refers to binoculars, mist nets, climbing equipment, computers, printers, global positioning systems, slide projectors, video and 35mm cameras, telemetry equipment, and other items in support of biodiversity conservation. 

Applicants are individuals of any nationality engaged in biodiversity conservation, education, or research in the developing countries. 

The maximum grant amount (equipment value plus shipping costs) is US$1,500.  Potential applicants send short proposals to Idea Wild at any time of the year. International Development Research Center: Research Grants and Fellowships http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-54473-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html

The International Development Research Center (IDRC) provides funding for applied research by researchers from developing countries and Canada. IDRC makes grants for biodiversity and genetic resources; needs of the poor who live in degraded and fragile ecosystems; adaptation to climate change; and several other themes related to conservation.

IDRC also funds a Training and Awards Program for internships, open to researchers from Canada and developing countries. 

Announcements about awards and competitions (e.g., fellowships, new research initiatives, etc.),

including submission dates, are posted on IDRC’s website. International Elephant Foundation: Research and Capacity Building http://www.elephantconservation.org/

The International Elephant Foundation makes grants for elephant conservation and education in managed facilities and in the wild – with emphasis on management, protection, and scientific research.

Applicants are students, scientists, and institutions (no geographical restrictions). Average grant size is about US$10,000. Annual application deadline.

International Foundation for Science: Research Grants for Young Professionals http://www.ifs.se/

IFS makes grants to young scientists attached to universities, national research institutions, and research-oriented NGOs in developing countries. Normally, over 250 new grants are made each year in a large number of eligible countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Thematic areas include biodiversity and conservation; agriculture and food sciences; water and soil resources; forestry; natural products; marine resources; animal husbandry; and several others. Applicants should be at the beginning of their research careers, and IFS has age limitations for applicants (varying by region).

IFS accepts applications throughout the year.

International Iguana Foundation: Iguana Research and Conservation http://www.iguanafoundation.org/index.php

The International Iguana Foundation promotes and enables iguana conservation through partnerships with scientists, educators, and organizations committed to preserving the Earth’s biodiversity.

Priority is for projects related to survival of endangered iguanas and their habitats, that are part of established conservation programs, and that have participation from the range countries.

Grants do not exceed US$12,000. Annual application deadline.

International Osprey Foundation: Raptor Research and Conservation http://www.ospreys.com/

The International Osprey Foundation makes grants to individuals for research on ospreys, other raptors, and environmental topics related to birds and wildlife in general. Grant recipients include many whose research focuses in the developing countries. No restrictions by nationality.

Grants are for US$1,000. Annual application deadline.

International Primatological Society: Primate Research and Education http://www.internationalprimatologicalsociety.org/funding.cfm

The International Primatological Society offers grants to support primate conservation in the field (Conservation Grants); primate care in captivity (Captive Care Grants); conservation education (Charles Southwick Conservation Education Commitment Award, and the Lawrence Jacobsen Education Development Award); and conservation training (Martha J. Galante Award).

Most grants are limited to US$1,500 (except training grants, which are US$2,500). Annual

application deadline.

John Ball Zoo Society: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.johnballzoosociety.org/conservation.php

The John Ball Zoo Society’s Wildlife Conservation Fund makes grants to enhance or assist the preservation of wild animals and management of their habitats. The principal investigator must be associated with a recognized institution (e.g., accredited zoo, academic institution, or conservation or non-profit organization).

Grants are generally in the range of US$500 to US$2500. Annual application deadline.

J.R.S. Biodiversity Foundation: Research on Biodiversity Informatics http://www.jrsbdf.org/v3/home.asp

The J.R.S. Biodiversity Foundation supports projects that focus on collecting, synthesizing, and disseminating biodiversity data.  The focus is biodiversity informatics, and technology approaches for collecting and interpreting biological information.

Grant recipients to date are medium and large nonprofit institutions which specialize in research and data management, such as research institutes and information-sharing networks.

In addition to its main grants (usually over US$100,000), the Foundation offers smaller supplementary grants for cross-institutional training in amounts under US$20,000. 

Annual application deadline.

Lincoln Park Zoo: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.lpzoo.org/cs_front.php

Lincoln Park Zoo’s Conservation and Science Department is dedicated to improving animal management and wildlife conservation. The Zoo’s research and conservation efforts focus on small population biology; applied animal behavior; conservation of wild populations; epidemiology; endocrinology; cognition and learning; and veterinary medicine.

Outside of the USA, the geographical emphasis is East Africa and selected countries of Latin America (Argentina, Brazil, and Costa Rica).

Potentially interested participants send a detailed inquiry to the Zoo at an email address posted on the Zoo’s website.

Marine Conservation Biology Institute: Research in Marine History and Ecology http://www.mcbi.org/index.htm

The MCBI advances the science of marine conservation biology, and works to help protect ocean ecosystems.  MCBI is a grant maker through the Mia J.Tegner Memorial Research Grants for marine history and ecology.

Applications are accepted from individuals and collaborative teams at academic institutions and NGOs. Preference is for graduate students, post-graduate researchers, and early career scientists. There are no restrictions by nationality. 

Maximum grant size is US$10,000 per project. Annual application deadline.

Mava Foundation: Conservation Research and Capacity Building (West Africa and

Mediterranean) http://www.mava-foundation.org/index.html

The Mava Foundation for Nature makes grants for research, training, and integrated management to maintain the biodiversity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Its funding priorities for the developing world are the Mediterranean Basin and the coastal zone of West Africa. 

Mava invites proposals from international, national, regional, and local institutions. In the initial stage, applicants submit a project concept note.

Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.mbzspeciesconservation.org/

The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund aims to provide targeted grants to initiatives for species conservation; to recognize leaders in the field of species conservation; and to elevate the importance of species in the conservation debate.

The Fund is open to applications for funding support from conservationists in all parts of the world, and it will potentially support projects focused on all kinds of plant and animal species.The Fund accepts applications from organizations and individuals. 

The Fund provides grants of two sizes: less than US$5,000; and US$5,000 to US$25,000. Applications are made in English.  There are no application deadlines. 

Morris Animal Foundation: Wildlife Research and Emergency Support http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/for-grant-seekers/

The Morris Animal Foundation supports veterinary and wildlife research that protects, treats, and cures companion animals and wildlife worldwide. The Foundation accepts grant proposals for small companion animals (dogs and cats), large companion animals (horses and llamas/alpacas), and wildlife. Grants for wildlife include the Betty White Wildlife Rapid Response Fund to promptly attend to crisis situations.

The Foundation funds several categories of grants and fellowships, varying by purpose and experience. Most grants are between US$5,000 to US$50,000 – depending on the category.

Annual application deadlines (vary by program area), except for the Betty White Wildlife Rapid Response Fund (any time).

Nagao Natural Environment Foundation: Research and Education (Southeast Asia) http://www.nagaofoundation.or.jp/index_e.php

The Nagao Natural Environment Foundation promotes nature conservation in developing countries, mainly in Southeast Asia. The Foundation supports a Research Grants Scheme; Scholarship Scheme; and a Comprehensive Program for Conservation Research and Activities.

The Foundation’s interests are ecological research; biodiversity assessments; wildlife management; conservation planning; and environmental awareness.

Research grants are to scientists who work full-time at research institutions in the developing countries. Small research grants support young researchers and graduate students resident in developing countries. Conservation funding is to support teachers, students, and NGO staff who are resident in developing countries. Scholarships are for students in Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, and Vietnam. The Comprehensive Program is limited to a few named institutions in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Each program has a separate application process, with application deadlines.

National Birds of Prey Trust: Raptor Research and Conservation http://www.nationalbirdsofpreytrust.net/index.htm

The National (UK) Birds of Prey Trust makes grants for the conservation of birds of prey and their habitats. The Trust is not restricted to any specific geographic region or type of habitat, and it has supported projects in raptor conservation around the world.

Projects are for habitat/prey protection in range countries; educational activities in support of raptor conservation; scientific techniques in support of raptor conservation; and birds/humans conflicts and partnerships.

Grants are to students, researchers, and conservationists. The Trust makes small grants (under £5,000) and large grants (over £5,000).

Annual application deadline.

National Geographic Society: Grants for Conservation Field Studies http://www.nationalgeographic.com/field/grants-programs/

The National Geographic Society awards several hundred grants each year for exploration, research, and conservation. The Society’s grant-making programs support work in wildlife conservation, ecology, marine biology, sustainable agriculture, and other environmental themes.

Grants are made to individuals at different levels of experience, depending on the particular program. Most grants are US$2,000 to US$20,000.

The Society’s grant-making programs have broadly similar application processes that begin with an online pre-application form. The Society accepts pre-applications throughout the year.  

Neotropical Bird Club: Bird Research and Conservation (Latin America) http://www.neotropicalbirdclub.org/pages/club.asp?ClubID=15

The Neotropical Bird Club’s Conservation Fund makes research grants of US$500 to US$1,500. Awards are given to projects carried out by nationals and/or residents of countries in the Neotropics (i.e. the Caribbean, Central America, and South America). Priority is for globally threatened species on IUCN’s global red list

Applications are reviewed four times each year.

Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.newzoo.org/support/conservation/

The Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo and the N.E.W. Zoological Society sponsor the Conservation Grant Fund to support wildlife conservation and research worldwide.

There is no maximum or minimum grant size. Applications are accepted from organizations and individuals throughout the year, and reviewed once a year.

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.okczoo.com/media/recent-press-releases/m.blog/68/okc-zoo-announces-conservation-grant-program

The Oklahoma City Zoo makes grants to support imperiled wildlife species, habitats, and their

surrounding communities through conservation, research, and education. The grant-making program is Conservation Action Now.

Grant amounts do not exceed US$2,500. Annual application deadline.

Oregon Zoo Foundation: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.oregonzoo.org/ConservationNew/grants.htm

The Oregon Zoo Foundation’s Future for Wildlife Conservation Fund awards small grants for field conservation in the USA’s Pacific Northwest and internationally.

Projects directly contribute to the survival of populations of free-living animal species and the ecosystems in which they are found.

Awards range from US$500 to US$4,500. Grants are awarded semi-annually (two deadlines per year).

Oriental Bird Club: Bird Research and Conservation (Asia) http://www.orientalbirdclub.org/conservation/index.html

The Oriental Bird Club’s Conservation Fund makes grants in several categories for conservation and conservation awareness, with a focus on the birds of Asia. Funding priorities are projects that benefit globally threatened bird species, and projects that benefit threatened bird habitats.

Grants are made to individuals and institutions. Projects must involve Asia-based project leaders. Major conservation awards are up to £2,000 each year for 3-5 years; small awards are £1,000 (exceptionally £1,500). The OBC also offers special and emergency awards.

Project summaries can be submitted anytime. Full proposals have an annual deadline.

Pacific Seabird Group: Seabird Research and Conservation (Pacific Region) http://www.pacificseabirdgroup.org/index.php?f=grants&t=Grant%20Program&s=1

The Pacific Seabird Group is dedicated to the study of Pacific seabirds and their environment. The Group manages the Craig S. Harrison Conservation Fund. The Conservation Fund makes grants for conservation of seabirds in the Pacific Ocean, and for expanding seabird expertise in developing countries within or bordering the Pacific Ocean.

Priority for grants is to citizens of developing countries in the Pacific region. However, other applicants also qualify for grants under certain circumstances (see explanation on the website).

The size of grants is usually between US$250 and US$2,000. Applications may be submitted at any time—there is no deadline for submission.

PADI Foundation: Research and Education in Marine Conservation http://www.padifoundation.org/

The PADI Foundation supports underwater science, marine environmental projects, and environmental education. Grants are for marine environment and ecology; coral reef systems; marine mammals and turtles; aquatic and marine zoology; marine plants; and public awareness of marine issues.

Most grant recipients are university faculty and students; teachers of environmental education; and marine researchers who work for conservation NGOs and other nonprofit organizations. There are no restrictions by nationality.   

Grants generally range from US$2,000 to US$10,000.  Annual application deadline.

Panthera: Research and Conservation of Imperiled Cats http://www.panthera.org/

Panthera focuses on strategies to protect the world’s most imperiled cats and their habitats through advocacy, education, research, field conservation, and policy. Panthera makes grants in several categories of cat conservation and research, and it offers prizes to recognize achievements in cat conservation. 

The Kaplan Graduate Awards fund young biologists for field research on wild felids. The Research and Conservation Grants are to individuals and organizations for in situ conservation projects on large cats, with preference for applications from nationals and NGOs in range countries. The Small Cat Action Fund is open to all qualified individuals and institutions. The Next Generation Prize is for young professionals, while the Lifetime Achievement Prize is for senior conservations and scientists.

Most grants are under US$25,000 per year. Two application deadlines per year.

Peoples Trust for Endangered Species: Wildlife Research, Conservation, Education http://www.ptes.org/

The Peoples Trust for Endangered Species takes on a range of projects for endangered and threatened species and their habitats in the UK and worldwide.  The Trust’s interests include surveys and research of endangered wildlife; applied conservation in the field; and environmental education.

Grants are to scientific researchers and conservation workers in the UK and internationally.  

Grants for projects external to the UK are between £2 thousand and £10 thousand. Two application deadlines per year.

Phoenix Zoo: Wildlife Research and Capacity Building http://www.aza.org/uploadedFiles/Conservation/Funding/phoenix-zoo-cons-grant-application.pdf

The Phoenix Zoo offers Conservation and Science Grants to provide seed money or fund critical components of conservation programs. The grants support practical projects in conservation science; research; knowledge sharing; ex situ support of in situ conservation; and involvement of local communities.

First-year grants are limited to US$3,000. Annual one-month application period.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.pdza.org/page.php?id=7

The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium makes grants for animal conservation, research, and educational initiatives. Funding through the Zoo’s Conservation Committee supports research; applied studies for in situ conservation and ex situ husbandry; and education initiatives that promote animal conservation and habitat preservation.

The usual funding amount ranges between US$500 and US$5,000. Annual application deadline.

Primate Conservation, Inc.: Primate Research and Conservation http://www.primate.org/

Primate Conservation Inc. (PCI) is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to studying, preserving, and

maintaining the habitats of the world’s least known and most endangered primates.   PCI’s grants support original research that can be used to formulate and implement conservation plans for the species studied.

PCI’s projects are organized by primate species and also geographically.   Projects are located in the countries which are the habitats of wild populations of primates.

Grants are to graduate students, qualified conservationists, and primatologists. Awards are made to individuals through colleges, universities, and other nonprofit organizations. PCI welcomes proposals from applicants in countries where the primates are found. 

Grants average approximately US$2,500, and maximum grant size is US$5,000. Two application deadlines per year.

Pro Natura Fund: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.nacsj.or.jp/pn/

The Pro Natura Fund is a grant program managed by the Pro Natura Foundation jointly with the Nature Conservation Society of Japan. Thematic interests are survey research in support of species conservation; ecological research; research on alien species; wildlife research; and dissemination of environmental knowledge (books, websites, etc.).

Grants are made to individuals and groups in Japan and the developing countries. Applications from outside Japan need to be recommended by a scientist or environmental group in Japan.

Most grants range from ¥50 thousand to ¥150 thousand. Annual calendar deadline.

Raptor Research Foundation: Raptor Research and Education http://raptorresearchfoundation.org/grants_and_awards.htm

The RRF offers funding in support of research on raptors, as well as for student recognition and travel.

The Leslie Brown Memorial Grant is for research and/or dissemination of information on African birds of prey. Grants are US$1,400.

Other categories of RRF funding (grants ranging from US$500 to US$1,000) may be relevant for international research projects. Annual application deadline.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.riverbanks.org/conservationcare/fund.shtml

The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden sponsors the Riverbanks Conservation Support Fund to assist conservation biologists in wildlife conservation projects. Grants are for field conservation; habitat management; conservation education; ex situ captive breeding; animal health and welfare; and other themes.

Grants generally range from US$1000 to US$5000. Grants are awarded semi-annually (two deadlines per year).

Roger Williams Park Zoo: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.rwpzoo.org/conservation/danforth.cfm

The Roger Williams Park Zoo and the Rhode Island Zoological Society make grants for conservation projects worldwide through the Sophie Danforth Conservation Biology Fund (SDCBF).

Grants in SDCBF fund multi-disciplinary approaches to biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, and projects that involve in-country collaborators. Additional themes are environmental education; captive propagation programs that favor conservation, and others.

Applicants can be of any nationality. They must be associated with an organization through which s/he can receive funding.

Maximum grant size is US$1000. Annual application deadline.

Royal Geographical Society: Grants for Conservation Field Studies http://www.rgs.org/HomePage.htm

The Royal Geographical Society is a grant maker for geographical research, fieldwork, and teaching.  Grants in several categories are for desk and field-based researchers, research teams, and school teachers.

Grant themes are essentially all aspects of natural history, the physical world, and interactions with human populations. This includes ecological surveys; planning of parks and reserves; studies of particular environments; climate change; natural hazards; and others.

Most grants are to individuals (not organizations).  The majority of grant programs are for UK nationals, Society members, and/or students registered at UK universities.  

Grants range from £500 to £15,000. The Society provides a profile of each type of grant regarding eligibility, application procedure, and guidelines for submitting proposals (including calendar deadlines). 

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds: Bird Research and Conservation http://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/science/international/smallgrants/asiagrants.asp

The RSPB supports three programs of small grants for international research. They are the Africa Small Grants; Asia Small Grants; and Birdfair/RSPB Research Fund for Endangered Birds.

The Birdfair/RSPB Fund is for individuals working within their own country, and to those working with the local BirdLife Partner, although other applicants are also welcome. Grants under the other two programs of small grants are for organizations, and occasionally individuals, especially those based in Africa and Asia.

For the Africa Small Grants and Asia Small Grants, awards are between £500 and £1000. Grants from the Birdfair/RSPB Research Fund are up to US$2000. Annual application deadlines.

SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.swbg-conservationfund.org/

The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund is a nonprofit charitable organization for wildlife conservation. The Fund focuses on international species research; habitat protection; animal rescue and rehabilitation; and conservation education.

Grant recipients are nonprofit organizations in the USA and internationally; accredited universities and research centers; and institutions accredited by the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) and AMMPA (Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums). Most projects range from US$5,000 to US$25,000 for a one-year term.

The Fund uses an online application system. Annual application deadline.

Sirenian International: Research, Conservation, and Education on Manatees and Dugongs http://www.sirenian.org/

Sirenian International (SI) makes small grants to sponsor research, conservation, and education on manatees and/or dugongs.  SI’s priority is to support projects in developing countries where funding is traditionally difficult to secure.

Grant recipients include researchers, manatee scientists, university graduate students, and local conservation networks and NGOs.  Typical awards are US$500 to US$1,000.

SI accepts proposals all year.  Funding decisions are made twice a year. 

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: Ecological Research and Fellowships http://www.stri.org/

The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) is dedicated to understanding tropical ecology and biological diversity. STRI’s programs connect research, education and training, and conservation. 

STRI’s Center for Tropical Forest Science makes research grants to senior researchers, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students from all nationalities to conduct research on forest dynamics plots.  Applications are accepted on an annual cycle.

STRI also funds short and long-term fellowships as well as internships, field courses, and openings for volunteers.

Snow Leopard Network: Research and Conservation of Snow Leopards http://www.snowleopardnetwork.org/sln/GrantReports.php

The Snow Leopard Network (SLN) promotes conservation of the endangered snow leopard through collaboration among individuals, organizations, and governments. In support of the Snow Leopard Survival Strategy, the SLN manages a grants program.

Grant recipients are scientists and educators in the snow leopard range countries; international professionals working closely with (or hosted by) range-country counterparts; and graduate students of many nationalities. Grants range from US$1,000 to US$8,000.

Annual application deadline.

Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles: Herpetolgy Research, Conservation, and Education http://www.ssarherps.org/pages/GIH.php

The Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR) offers research grants in herpetology.

Grants are for individuals and organizations engaged in herpetological research, education, or conservation. Some grant categories are restricted to SSAR members and students.

Grants are US$500. Annual application deadline.

Taronga Conservation Society Australia: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.taronga.org.au/tcsa/conservation-programs/field-grants-program.aspx

The Taronga Conservation Society offers conservation field grants for wildlife research, breeding, and field conservation in Australia and internationally.

Grants are mainly to conservation NGOs and wildlife societies, university researchers, and zoos. The majority of grants are for projects in the Asia-Pacific region and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Average grant size is about A$10,000. Annual application deadline. Tropical Biology Association: Research and Capacity Building (Africa) http://www.tropical-biology.org/index.htm

The Tropical Biology Association (TBA) offers training courses and small grants to build expertise in Africa on biodiversity conservation and research.

TBA’s Small Grant Scheme supports its alumni groups (i.e., former participants in TBA’s courses) with funding for conservation and research. Alumni groups are organized by country. Grants are up to up to UK£1,500.

Annual application deadline.

Tulsa Zoo and Living Museum: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.tulsazoo.org/EducationConservation/ConservationattheTulsaZoo/TulsaZooConservationGrantsProgram/

Tulsa Zoo’s Conservation Grants Program supports projects that promote an understanding of rare, threatened, and endangered animals and their habitats. It also funds zoological research on the management of captive animals.

Applicants must be associated with a recognized organization (e.g. zoo/aquarium, NGO, university, etc.) through which she or he can receive funding. There are no restrictions on the nationality of the applicant. University students are encouraged to apply.

Grants are up to US$5,000. Annual application period for online submissions.

Turtle Conservation Fund: Turtle Research and Conservation http://www.turtleconservationfund.org/

The Turtle Conservation Fund is a consortium of conservation organizations and individuals focusing on the long-term survival of tortoises and freshwater turtles.  The Fund makes grants for projects on tortoises and freshwater turtles that are threatened (IUCN’s Red List). 

Grants are to organizations and individuals, especially in developing countries. Most grants are US$2,000 to US$5,000.

Two application deadlines each year.

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization: Grants and Fellowships in Conservation Sciencehttp://portal.unesco.org/science/en/ev.php-URL_ID=5879&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html

UNESCO’s Natural Sciences Sector offers grants, fellowships, and prizes related to environment and conservation. They include the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Young Scientists Awards, together with several other categories of awards for junior and senior scientists.

Grants through MAB are awarded to young researchers in developing countries. Grants are up to US$5,000 in support of research on ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity. Annual

application deadline.

Grant seekers should explore other opportunities at UNESCO that may be of interest.

U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Research and Conservation of Marine Resources http://www.international.noaa.gov/about.htm

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) works to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine resources.  NOAA is a grant maker in themes such as coral reef conservation and marine protected areas; ecosystem-based fisheries management; coastal monitoring, and others.

Some of NOAA’s grant programs (e.g., the Coral Reef Conservation Program) are open to international participation. Grant announcements normally indicate program purpose, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and grant and program size. The Coral Reef Conservation Program is normally managed on annual cycles.

Waterbird Society: Waterbird Research and Conservation http://www.waterbirds.org/

The Waterbird Society is an international nonprofit organization of biologists, researchers, conservationists, students, and others interested in the behavior, ecology, and conservation of waterbirds worldwide.

The Society periodically makes grants for waterbird research. The Kushlan Research Award supports scientific advances in the biology, ecology, and conservation biology of wading birds. The Nisbet Research Award focuses on research and conservation on terns and gulls.

Both awards are open globally to students, professionals, and amateurs. Grants range from US$1,000 to US$7,000 (see guidelines). Annual application deadline.

Western Bird Banding Association: Bird Research and Monitoring (Latin America) http://www.westernbirdbanding.org/grants.html

The Western Bird Banding Assocation makes two grants each year, one in research and the other in monitoring, for projects using marked birds in the New World (i.e., the Americas broadly defined). Applicants may be individuals or organizations.

Grants are for US$1000. Annual application deadline.

Wildlife Conservation Society: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://programs.wcs.org/Default.aspx?alias=programs.wcs.org/grants

The WCS engages in science, conservation, education, and the support of zoos and aquariums for the protection of wildlife and wild lands worldwide. WCS is a partner in the Conservation Leadership Program, and it also sponsors small grants in the form of research fellowships

The WCS Research Fellowship Program is open to citizens of developing countries currently enrolled in a masters, PhD, or DVM program (or equivalent). Funded research projects support the WCS conservation priorities.

Grants are up to US$20,000 per award. Annual application deadline.

Wilson Ornithological Society: Bird Research and Conservation http://www.wilsonsociety.org/awards/

The Wilson Ornithological Society offers three research grants.

The Louis Agassiz Fuertes Award is available to all ornithologists, with preference for graduate students and young professionals. Grant amount is US$2,500.

The George A. Hall / Harold F. Mayfield Award is for independent non-professional researchers without other access to funds or facilities. Grant amount is US$1,000.

The Paul A. Steward Awards are for studies of bird movements based on banding, analysis of recoveries, and returns of banded birds – with emphasis on economic ornithology. Grant amount is US$500.

Woodland Park Zoo: Jaguar Research and Conservation (Latin America) http://www.zoo.org/Page.aspx?pid=899

The Woodland Park Zoo administers the Jaguar Conservation Fund, which makes grants related to habitat conservation and protection of jaguars in Latin America.

Projects include a strong educational component, involvement of local communities, and partnerships with other conservation organizations.

Annual application deadline.

Zoo Boise: Wildlife Research and Conservation http://www.zooboise.org/zooboiseconservationfund.aspx

Zoo Boise’s Conservation Fund supports projects that focus on species in Zoo Boise’s Master Plan.

Grants are for habitat restoration; wildlife conservation and management; community-based conservation; and conservation education. The Conservation Fund also funds research related to natural history, ecology, habitat, national park inventories, and biological assessments -- although research is a lower priority than the other themes.

Grant seekers must be U.S.-based nonprofit organizations, or have strong ties with U.S. organizations. Grants range from US$1,000 to US$25,000.

Annual three-month application period.

Zoological Society of London: Grants for Conservation Field Studies http://www.zsl.org/conservation/expeditions/zsl-conservation-expeditions,565,AR.html

The ZSL funds short field expeditions to address questions in field conservation of threatened or potentially threatened species outside Western Europe and North America.

Applicants should be at least 20 years of age and resident in the UK, or registered at a UK university or college. Preference is for small teams rather than individuals. The expedition teams are expected to help build capacity in host countries (i.e., training, equipment, support for local research, etc.).

Grants are >£2,000. Annual application deadline.