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Best Grants for Environmental Conservation

Explore environmental conservation grants for land preservation, wildlife protection, reforestation, and natural resource management.

1,000+

Available grants

$147.3M

Total funding

$8K

Median grant

1,000+ grants
$147.3M total
$8K median

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1,070 Results based on applied filters

Community Grants (formerly PCAF)

Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation
Private
Canada
Up to C $20,000
The Community Grants program, formerly known as PCAF, supports individuals and organizations in implementing community-based conservation projects. With an annual funding of approximately $150,000, the program emphasizes hands-on initiatives that enhance public awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible projects focus on the restoration and maintenance of native freshwater species and habitats, with a requirement for a volunteer component. Grants typically range from $2,500 to a maximum of $20,000 over the project's lifetime, fostering community engagement in environmental stewardship.
Environmental Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Wildlife Management +3 more

Ellen Lea Paine Memorial Nature Fund Grants

Adirondack Garden Club
Association/Society
Clinton County, New York, Essex County, New York +10 more
Up to US $1,500
The Ellen Lea Paine Memorial Nature Fund Grants, established by the Adirondack Garden Club, aim to provide financial support for initiatives focused on studying, protecting, and enjoying the natural environment of the Adirondack Park. This fund prioritizes assistance for individuals and nonprofit organizations, including educational institutions, committed to conservation efforts and the promotion of native plants and wildlife. Through this grant, the Garden Club fosters ecological awareness and community engagement in environmental preservation.
Environmental Conservation Environment Environmental Education +1 more

AWS University Research Grants

Australian Wildlife Society
Association/Society
Australia
A $3,000 - A $5,000
The Australian Wildlife Society offers University Research Grants to honours and postgraduate students in Australia focused on wildlife conservation research. Each year, ten grants are available, including a $5,000 scholarship for the top applicant. These grants can be used for research-related expenses, travel, or conference attendance. Applicants must be Society members, and only one entry per applicant is allowed. Applications exceeding four pages will not be considered.
Environmental Conservation Mammalian Conservation Botanical Conservation

Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch Fellowship Program

Audubon: Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch
Private
Arizona
Up to US $1,500
The Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch Fellowship Program supports young scientists conducting research aimed at preserving and enhancing grassland ecosystems in southeastern Arizona. With a focus on conservation, research, and education, the program offers a cash award and housing voucher to facilitate impactful studies on climate change, community engagement, and species conservation. This initiative not only fosters scientific rigor but also encourages a new generation of conservationists dedicated to safeguarding vital ecosystems.
Livestock & Ranching Environmental Conservation Ecology +5 more

Research Equipment Grant Program

Neotropical Grassland Conservancy
Private
Argentina, Belize +17 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Research Equipment Grant Program by the Neotropical Grassland Conservancy aims to provide essential scientific equipment to Latin American researchers. This initiative supports conservation efforts and educational opportunities in Central and South America, ensuring that vital tools like microscopes and GPS units are accessible. By fostering collaboration between scientists across the Americas, the program enhances research capabilities and contributes to the sustainable management of grassland ecosystems.
Plant Science Environmental Conservation Ecology +3 more

Neotropical Grassland Conservancy: Student Grant Program (SGP)

Neotropical Grassland Conservancy
Private
Argentina, Belize +17 more
US $1,500
The Neotropical Grassland Conservancy's Student Grant Program (SGP) supports Latin American graduate students pursuing conservation research. Offering $1,500 in funding, the program alleviates financial barriers like transportation and supplies. Awardees must submit a year-end report detailing their project outcomes. Additionally, the Christopher Miller Outstanding Student Award recognizes exceptional grant recipients with a $500 prize. This initiative fosters collaboration between North and South American scientists, enhancing conservation efforts across grasslands and related ecosystems.
Environmental Conservation Ecology Zoology +2 more

Conservation, Food & Health Foundation Grant Program

The Conservation, Food & Health Foundation
Private
Angola, Bangladesh +74 more
US $25,000 - US $50,000
The Conservation, Food & Health Foundation Grant Program aims to enhance public health, food security, and environmental conservation in underfunded regions across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East. It supports innovative projects and applied research that promote local solutions, leadership development, and community capacity building. With grants typically ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, the program prioritizes initiatives that foster sustainability, replication, and systemic change beyond immediate project goals.
Sustainability Agriculture Epidemiology & Public Health +11 more

Emily M. Hewitt Memorial Scholarship

Calaveras Big Trees Association
Association/Society
California
US $3,000
The Emily M. Hewitt Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Calaveras Big Trees Association, offers a $3,000 monetary award to a promising California upper division or graduate student committed to environmental studies. Created in honor of Emily M. Hewitt, a passionate advocate for nature, this scholarship seeks candidates who demonstrate a dedication to communicating the beauty of nature and understanding the importance of conservation. Eligible students must be enrolled full-time in an accredited California institution.
Science Communications Environmental Conservation Wildlife Management +6 more

Ontario Wildlife Foundation Grant

Ontario Wildlife Foundation
Private
Canada
Unspecified amount
The Ontario Wildlife Foundation Grant supports initiatives aimed at conserving and enhancing Ontario's natural resources. It focuses on projects that promote conservation education, outdoor recreation, and scientific research related to wildlife and their habitats. Eligible projects must benefit local communities, while ineligible projects include those that primarily benefit private properties or involve travel expenses for conferences. This grant encourages collaborative efforts to ensure sustainable environmental practices.
Environmental Conservation Wildlife Management Natural Resources +2 more

Sigma Xi Grants-in-Aid of Research Program

Sigma Xi
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Sigma Xi Grants-in-Aid of Research Program, celebrating 100 years of supporting research, offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students. Members can receive grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, while non-members can apply for up to $1,000. Additionally, there are specific funds available for astronomy and vision-related research. This program fosters collaboration between students and mentors, promoting scientific excellence through hands-on experience.
Engineering Science Computer Science & Engineering +23 more

Weston Family Boreal Research Fellowship

Wildlife Conservation Society Canada
Association/Society
Canada
Up to C $20,000
The Weston Family Boreal Research Fellowship, supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, offers financial assistance to graduate students conducting field-based research in the Ontario Northern Boreal and Northern Boreal Mountains. This fellowship encourages projects that align with WCS Canada's conservation objectives and that collaborate with Indigenous communities. Successful applicants will benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities, while contributing to significant conservation efforts in North America's boreal regions.
Environmental Conservation Ecology Wildlife Management +4 more

Gloria Barron Wilderness Society Scholarship

The Wilderness Society
Association/Society
United States
US $25,000
The Gloria Barron Wilderness Society Scholarship encourages graduate students to contribute to wilderness protection, honoring Gloria Barron's legacy. The Wilderness Society prioritizes projects addressing climate change and equitable access to public lands. Applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program, possess strong academic qualifications, and focus on long-term wilderness conservation. Research proposals on biodiversity, climate adaptation, and social-ecological contexts are particularly welcome, aiming for inclusive and impactful conservation efforts.
Environmental Conservation Ecology Environment +3 more

The Eppley Foundation for Research Grant

The Eppley Foundation for Research
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Eppley Foundation for Research, established in 1947, supports advanced scientific research in chemistry, physics, and biology. It prioritizes innovative studies, particularly in medical investigations and climate change. The foundation does not fund social sciences or projects with ample existing financial support. Applicants must hold a PhD or MD and be associated with a nonprofit in the US. The foundation aims to foster groundbreaking research that is unlikely to be replicated elsewhere.
Physics Biology Health & Medicine +4 more

Rufford Small Grants Programme

The Rufford Foundation
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +127 more
£7,000 - £18,000
The Rufford Small Grants Programme supports early-career conservationists in developing countries, providing crucial funding for pilot projects. With over £30 million allocated since its inception, the program facilitates various grant types, including up to £18,000 for Completion Grants. Applicants are encouraged to focus on nature conservation and submit updates on their projects. This initiative aims to empower individuals to make significant contributions to conservation and enhance local capacities.
Environmental Conservation

Munson Foundation Grant Program

The Curtis & Edith Munson Foundation
Private
Alabama, Broward County, Florida +12 more
US $10,000 - US $40,000
The Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation offers grants focusing on the conservation of natural resources in eastern North America and the Caribbean Basin, particularly in the U.S. Key areas include marine resource management, South Florida ecosystems, and Alabama environmental issues. Grants are site-specific, require a 1:1 match, and are not available for individuals or capital campaigns. Initial inquiries should be submitted by the first or second Friday of April or September.
Environment Environmental Conservation Natural Resources +1 more

MCFA Grant

Mitsubishi Corporation Foundation for the Americas
Corporate
Americas
Unspecified amount
The Mitsubishi Corporation Foundation for the Americas (MCFA) supports environmental initiatives across the Americas, focusing on biodiversity conservation, environmental education, justice, and sustainable development. They prioritize programs that align with these aims, particularly those involving 501(c)(3) organizations. MCFA seeks to empower marginalized communities, promote ecological stewardship, and encourage sustainable economic practices, ensuring that environmental burdens are shared equitably across all communities.
Sustainability Environmental Conservation Environmental Justice & Advocacy +2 more

Trust for Mutual Understanding Grant

Trust for Mutual Understanding
Private
Albania, Armenia +28 more
Approximately US $10,000
The Trust for Mutual Understanding Grant supports exchanges in the arts and environment between U.S. professionals and those from 29 countries, including Albania and Ukraine. This grant is open to American nonprofit organizations and focuses on fostering collaborations that enhance professional interaction and community engagement. Funding can be used for both in-person and virtual exchanges, covering costs like travel, accommodation, and administrative expenses. Note that applications reopen on December 1, 2025, for projects starting July 1, 2026.
Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage Sustainability +6 more

Mathias Graduate Student Research Grant Program

Natural Reserve System- University of California
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $3,000
The Mathias Graduate Student Research Grant Program offers funding up to $3,000 for graduate research at UC Natural Reserve System (NRS) reserves. Open to all graduate students from UC campuses, it encourages independent research projects and helps students develop skills in proposal writing and budget management. Awardees can present their findings at the Mathias Symposium. Since 1988, the program has supported over 500 students with more than $1 million in funding, fostering diverse research disciplines.
Environmental Conservation Ecology Environment

ACF Small Grants Program

Alaska Conservation Foundation
Private
Alaska
US $500 - US $2,000

The Alaska Conservation Foundation supports direct conservation work that makes an enduring conservation impact to uphold the integrity of Alaska’s natural environment and the ways of life it sustains. 

The Small Grants program provides grant awards to Alaska-based grassroots organizations in order to foster a more effective and sustainable conservation movement through funding to strengthen its leadership base, encourage collaboration and help leaders and organizations navigate changing political and economic climates. 

The goal of this grantmaking program is to foster a more effective, sustainable conservation movement through funding to strengthen its leadership base, encourage collaboration and help leaders and organizations navigate changing political and economic climates.

Environmental Conservation

Curtis Gates Lloyd Research Fellowship

Lloyd Library and Museum
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The Curtis Gates Lloyd Research Fellowship, provided by the Lloyd Library and Museum, supports research in various fields, including botany, conservation, and history of science. This fellowship offers a stipend of $2,000 for local applicants and $3,000 for those from outside the region. To be eligible, applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree and commit to conducting research at the library for a minimum of 20 hours per week. The fellowship duration ranges from one to three months.
History Zoology Mycology +5 more

Hazel Patterson Memorial Grant

Wyoming Community Foundation
Private
Wyoming
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Hazel Patterson Memorial Grant, offered by the Wyoming Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Johnson County, Wyoming, that meet community needs. With a focus on arts, health, education, environment, and community building, this grant prioritizes collaborative efforts and sustainability. Applicants should be 501(c)(3) organizations and are encouraged to leverage WYCF funding for additional support. However, lobbying efforts and individual grants are not permitted.
Art & Culture Education Environmental Conservation +5 more

WYCF General Grants

Wyoming Community Foundation
Private
Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The Wyoming Community Foundation (WYCF) offers grants to nonprofit organizations in Wyoming that address community needs in areas such as arts, health, education, environment, and civic engagement. Eligible applicants must be recognized under Section 501(c)(3) and in good standing with the IRS. WYCF prioritizes partnerships and leveraging funds. However, lobbying efforts and individual grants are not supported. Organizations with outstanding reports from previous grants are also ineligible.
Art & Culture Education Environment +5 more

Rainforest Trust Grants- Protected or Conserved Area Creation Awards

Rainforest Trust
Private
Africa, Argentina +42 more
Unspecified amount
Rainforest Trust grants support the creation and expansion of protected or conserved areas vital for biodiversity, climate mitigation, and community needs. With over $361 million awarded since 1988, the trust encourages applications for projects under $250,000 throughout the year. Eligible projects must focus on unprotected areas benefiting endangered species and ecosystems, with a strong emphasis on community involvement and sustainable management practices. For larger grants, a four-month review is recommended before the March, July, or October deadlines.
Environmental Conservation

California Wildlands Grassroots Fund Grant

Rose Foundation For Communities And The Environment
Private
California
Up to US $10,000
The California Wildlands Grassroots Fund Grant supports grassroots activists working to preserve California's wildlands and natural habitats. With a maximum award of $10,000, the fund prioritizes projects focused on conservation, environmental advocacy, and community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and fiscally sponsored individuals with annual incomes of $200,000 or less. The grant aims to empower communities, particularly in rural areas, to advocate for wildlands protection and biodiversity conservation.
Environmental Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Environmental Justice & Advocacy +1 more

Sarah K. de Coizart Perpetual Charitable Trust Grants

Sarah K Decoizart Perpetual Charitable Tr
Private
Connecticut, Maine +4 more
US $20,000 - US $75,000
The Sarah K. de Coizart Perpetual Charitable Trust, established in 1992, focuses on supporting species conservation and blindness-related services in the Northeast United States. Grants range from $20,000 to $75,000 for conservation projects and $20,000 to $50,000 for blindness initiatives. Priority is given to endangered species and innovative research efforts. Organizations must be IRS-designated public charities. The Trust does not fund individuals or matching gifts, ensuring support goes directly to impactful projects.
Environmental Conservation Vision Impairment Care & Services Eye Diseases & Disorders

Pacific Life Foundation Grants

Pacific Life Foundation
Private
Amherst County, Virginia, Appomattox County, Virginia +5 more
US $15,000 - US $100,000
The Pacific Life Foundation Grants aim to positively impact communities through strategic funding in areas such as arts, education, and health. Nonprofits with tax-exempt status can apply for grants up to $15,000 for program support or $25,000 to $100,000 for capital projects. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovative solutions to meet community needs while honoring the legacy of Pacific Life and its employees.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Environmental Conservation +5 more

European Outdoor Conservation Association: Conservation Project Grant

European Outdoor Conservation Association
Association/Society
Africa, Antarctica +4 more
Up to €30,000
The European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) offers conservation grants up to €30,000 for projects that enhance biodiversity in wild landscapes, excluding North America. Funded projects must protect threatened species or habitats, demonstrate a connection to outdoor enthusiasts, and involve hands-on conservation work. Additionally, these initiatives should support local communities and address climate change issues, ensuring habitats sequester carbon and reduce emissions while promoting sustainable practices.
Environmental Conservation Outdoor Recreation Land / Habitat Conservation +3 more

Grants for Environmental Conservation Highlights

Grants for environmental conservation fund programs aimed at protecting natural resources, preserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable practices. The following grants empower nonprofits to implement conservation initiatives and foster environmental stewardship.


Search Instrumentl's Environmental Conservation Grants Database


Discover 299 funding opportunities for environmental conservation, with $75.5M in resources. Instrumentl helps nonprofits secure impactful funding by offering deadline alerts, advanced search capabilities, and detailed funder analysis to drive conservation efforts.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Grants for Environmental Conservation

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

300+ Grants for Environmental Conservation grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

83 Grants for Environmental Conservation over $25K in average grant size

61 Grants for Environmental Conservation over $50K in average grant size

64 Grants for Environmental Conservation supporting general operating expenses

300+ Grants for Environmental Conservation supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Environmental Conservation

500+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Environmental Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for Environmental Conservation?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
28.9%
Q2
25.6%
Q3
24.2%
Q4
21.3%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for Environmental Conservation?

Grants are most commonly $13,125.

$500 $500 Min.
$13,125 $13.1 K Median
$429,055 $429.1 K Average
$46,000,000 $46 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Private organizations, corporations, and government agencies contribute to the $25M of funding available for environmental grants. Funders for these grants include the Fort Worth Zoo, Waste Management, the Marathon Petroleum Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Grants for environmental conservation are available to various types of nonprofits. These include environmental nonprofits, conservation groups, research institutions, and advocacy groups. Funders prioritize initiatives that protect natural resources, preserve biodiversity, and promote sustainability. The goal of these grants is to empower nonprofits to implement conservation initiatives and foster environmental stewardship.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for environmental conservation, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 28.9% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

Environmental conservation grants help support nonprofit initiatives that promote biodiversity, reduce pollution, and implement sustainable practices. Through these grants, funders aim to preserve natural habitats, mitigate climate impacts, and educate communities on environmental stewardship.

Funding for environmental conservation grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $46,000,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $13,125, while the average grant awarded is $429,055. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

To improve their success rate, nonprofits interested in environmental conservation grants should:

  • Align with environmental priorities – Tailor proposals to align with global and local environmental priorities.
  • Demonstrate measurable impact – Provide data-driven results to demonstrate the conservation impact of past, present, and future initiatives.
  • Establish partnerships – Collaborate with researchers, government agencies, and community leaders on environmental conservation efforts.

For additional guidance, explore our step-by-step guide to crafting compelling grant proposals.

Instrumentl helps environmental conservation organizations find and apply for grants by curating funding opportunities, tracking deadlines, and providing funder insights.

Streamline your grant management process with our workflow automation tools.