Best Sustainability Grants in Europe

The 1treellion Grant aims to mobilize communities globally to plant 1 trillion trees, addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. This initiative encourages organizations focused on sustainable tree planting that enhances local ecosystems and supports community engagement. By fostering awareness and raising funds, 1treellion seeks to unite efforts in reversing environmental damage and promoting a healthier planet for future generations.

The Brutten Family Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing access to the outdoors, quality education, and mental health services. Established in 1996, the foundation supports organizations that align with its core pillars: environment, education, and mental health. By nurturing local and global initiatives, the foundation aims to inspire the next generation of stewards for a healthier planet. They welcome applications from 501(c)(3) organizations worldwide committed to making a positive impact.

The Getty Foundation's Connecting Art Histories initiative enhances global art historical scholarship by fostering intellectual exchange among scholars, particularly in underrepresented regions. This ongoing grant program supports seminars and workshops that connect over 1,000 early to mid-career researchers from diverse areas, including Africa and Latin America, to promote collaborative research and career development. The initiative not only builds professional networks but also aims to strengthen the discipline of art history by addressing geographic and political barriers.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Oak Foundation Grant supports not-for-profit organizations worldwide aiming to create a safer, fairer, and sustainable future. With a commitment to social justice, the foundation encourages innovative approaches and long-term partnerships. Grants range from USD 25,000 to USD 10 million, focusing on projects that address root causes, ensure sustainability, and foster collaboration. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity and flexibility, aiming to build resilient organizations capable of making lasting impacts.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Business Development Programs

This program provides financial resources for local governments to pursue opportunities that create new jobs, retain existing employment, stimulate private investment, and revitalize or facilitate the competitiveness of the local economy. Funding will be prioritized based on the following order:

New or expanding businesses tied to job creation

Area economic development activities not associated with job creation

New or expanding local businesses that provide essential goods and services in predominately LMI communities 

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Ready To Go Program

Outcome

This program is designed to stimulate the local economy by addressing urgent or compelling community needs. Funding may also be used for pilot projects which have been developed in coordination with, and have been approved by, the State CDBG Program. The goal is encouraging innovation, the timely implementation of CDBG eligible projects, and cost effectiveness. The project requires an upfront investment of local and other funds for planning, project design and permitting that is substantially equivalent to the required 10% local match.

The project must be an eligible public facility improvement under the Community Infrastructure, Community Enrichment, or Local Priorities program. All required project activities leading up to bidding must be complete prior to submission of the application including but not limited to project design, environmental review, acquisition and permits. CDBG funds may only be used for construction or demolition. 

The Western Balkans Program, supported by The Rockefeller Brothers Fund, aims to advance democracy and peace in a region undergoing transformation. With a focus on Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the program encourages transparency in governance and sustainable development. Despite challenges from historical conflicts, the Fund promotes inclusive societies and civil engagement to foster reconciliation and support a European future. Organizations seeking grants must be tax-exempt and focused on educational or charitable initiatives.

The Pulitzer Center's Work/Environment Reporting Grants are now open for applications, focusing on the impact of climate change on workers and employment sectors. This initiative seeks compelling stories that highlight the challenges faced by vulnerable workers as temperatures rise, alongside innovative solutions being explored by companies. We encourage diverse voices and collaborative proposals that reflect the complexity of climate-related labor issues, aiming to inform the public and drive meaningful dialogue.

The Duesler, Charles and Bernard Scholarship Fund offers a $2,000 scholarship for Central Noble High School seniors or graduates planning to attend Purdue University in the fall. Preference is given to students entering agriculture, consumer and health services, veterinary, nursing, or pharmacy fields. Established by Charles Duesler to honor his brother Bernard and provide support to the community that nurtured his growth, this scholarship aims to assist deserving students in their educational pursuits.

The Applied Materials Foundation offers grants focusing on education, arts and culture, civic engagement, the environment, and girls' empowerment. These grants are designed to meet local community needs and support innovative projects that enhance educational opportunities, promote cultural activities, and foster civic participation. The foundation prioritizes collaboration with local organizations in areas where Applied Materials operates, ensuring impactful contributions to community resilience and sustainability.

The Visegrad Grants foster innovative regional cooperation in Central Europe, supporting diverse projects that address shared challenges. These grants are aimed at non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and civic groups committed to enhancing social cohesion and cultural identity. With a focus on collaboration among entities from different V4 countries, projects can range from cultural initiatives to democratic value promotion, ensuring a broad impact across communities in the region.

Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies

The Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies is a nonprofit, non-political international scholarly society whose mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of Central Asia, the Caucasus, Russia, and Eastern Europe within both regional and global contexts, while supporting scholars, students, and professionals in sharing research and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Its vision centers on sustaining intellectual vitality and global awareness of the region by serving as a leading hub for scholarship, dialogue, and professional development through publications, conventions, and academic exchange. The organization’s funding priorities focus on strengthening the field by providing financial support for research, dissertation completion, and scholarly dissemination; promoting teaching and mentorship; supporting early-career scholars; and encouraging interdisciplinary engagement and public awareness through programs, partnerships, and resources that enhance education and international studies.

ASEEES Summer Dissertation Writing Grant Program

The Summer Dissertation Writing Grant Program of the Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies (ASEEES) reflects the organization’s broader mission of advancing knowledge and scholarship on the societies, cultures, and histories of Eastern Europe, Eurasia, and related regions by supporting emerging scholars during critical stages of their academic work. The program envisions strengthening the next generation of researchers by providing dedicated time and financial support for dissertation completion, particularly for students who do not have access to major research fellowships. Its funding priorities focus on enabling PhD candidates at U.S. institutions to concentrate on writing their dissertations over the summer months, supporting projects across disciplines within Slavic, East European, and Eurasian studies, and prioritizing applicants whose work contributes to the academic field but does not require significant in-region research or fieldwork, with grants intended to cover living support rather than tuition costs.

The summer dissertation writing grant program is directed at PhD students at US universities who do not qualify for the ASEEES Dissertation Research Grant because they do not intend to conduct significant research in the region as part of their dissertation research. Students may only receive ONE Summer Dissertation Writing Grant over the course of their graduate studies.

The Small Cat Action Fund, managed by Panthera, aims to support in situ conservation and research for various small cat species. It provides crucial funding for projects focusing on the ecological needs of these felids, excluding the larger cat genera. Eligible species include the Caracal, Ocelot, and Lynx, among others. The fund particularly emphasizes field conservation efforts and local personnel support, fostering biodiversity and sustainable habitats for these important species.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Community Infrastructure Grants

Outcome and Priorities

A Community Infrastructure application must contribute to creation of healthy and sustainable residential communities through water, sewer, roads, drainage or other activities that address one or more of the priorities listed in order of importance:

Significant improvements to existing infrastructure to address health concerns, meet required quality standards, ensure community sustainability or improve resiliency.

Projects that result in a more viable regional infrastructure solution or that provide new access to services near business centers where it is cost effective to address a documented health threat

Upgrades to infrastructure to address quality standards where there are only general health concerns or provide new services that are not near business centers when it is cost effective to address a documented health threat

The Shenoy Undergraduate Research Fellowship in Neuroscience (SURFiN) by the Simons Foundation aims to engage undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds in neuroscience research. The program offers paid research assistantships at various labs across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Selected fellows will gain hands-on experience and mentorship during the 2024-2025 academic year, fostering diversity and innovation in scientific research. This initiative supports students in their academic journey while promoting inclusivity in the scientific community.

About

Founded in 1979, the SOM Foundation’s goal is to advance the design profession’s ability to address the key topics of our time by bringing together and supporting groups and individuals, each with the highest possible design aspirations. The Foundation’s award programming was established in 1981 and currently offers seven annual awards across the United States, Europe, and China. The awards support students and faculty of architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, urban design, and engineering to undertake rigorous interdisciplinary research that can help shape our future.

China Fellowship

Fellowship

The $15,000 China Fellowship is awarded annually to one student in the last two years of either an undergraduate or graduate program in architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, or urban design in the People’s Republic of China to conduct independent travel and research that contributes to the SOM Foundation’s current topic. The China Fellowship was created in 2006 to support emerging design leaders to broaden their education and contribute to their future professional and academic careers.

Topic: Exploring the Potential of Mobility Corridors

This year’s topic aims to explore how every scale of movement infrastructure shapes our built environment. How might new approaches to mobility corridors provide sustainable growth, from improving how people and goods move from place to place to supporting the ecosystems, communities, and activities that surround them? Ultimately, how can existing or proposed interconnected systems help define the future of our cities?

The General Montgomery (Monty) C. Meigs Scholarship, offered by the Folded Flag Foundation, honors individuals who embody Monty Meigs' exceptional leadership and dedication. This scholarship is available to high school and college students who display academic excellence and commitment to service. Applicants must submit academic records, a recommendation letter, and a personal essay. Designed to support the next generation of leaders, this scholarship reflects Monty's legacy of service and achievement.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Regional Planning Program

This program is designed to provide CDBG funds to Councils of Governments to assist local governments in developing plans and building local community development capacity. This assistance will build capacity to effectively determine community needs, long-term goals and short-term objectives, and develop plans for carrying out effective strategies to address community needs. Specific activities related to the State’s Consolidated Plan may be required. The planning assistance is not limited to the jurisdiction of the applicant and will include both regional and local planning and technical assistance activities. However, planning activities should only be conducted in non-entitlement communities.

Requirement

One applicant from each regional planning district may apply for this assistance. Each of the counties within a regional planning district must enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement to apply for and implement regional planning assistance grants. This Agreement will designate a lead county to apply for the grant to comply with all requirements of the application and grant, and it should be reviewed each year and updated as necessary to make sure it reflects current officials and jurisdictions.

Preserving Traditional Arts

Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic share a commitment to advancing conservation, research, education, and exploration, and inspiring people to learn about, care for, and protect our world. In support of this commitment, the mission of the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic (LEX-NG) Fund is to support projects to understand and protect our world’s oceans, restore critical marine and coastal habitats, and foster environmental stewardship in the regions visited by the fleet, and beyond. The Fund supports inspirational, passionate project leaders who are committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world. National Geographic Society and Lindblad Expeditions are in search of projects that support the work of traditional artists, knowledge holders, and heritage practitioners to preserve cultural heritage for communities around the world.

Opportunity Overview

The preservation of traditional arts such as crafts, music and folklore is crucial for the vibrancy and survival of cultural knowledge and practices worldwide. Cultural heritage, the diverse legacies of past and present societies in their many unique forms, shapes the way we identify and interact with the world. This RFP will fund projects conducting holistic conservation work that centers the role and agency of local and descendant communities. 

This RFP seeks to support projects in Baja California, Egypt, Europe and the Mediterranean, Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, and the South Pacific. For more detailed information on targeted areas within these regions, please refer to the targeted areas document. Potential projects should be led by artisans or practitioners with deep experience in the relevant local culture(s). If you are not such an artisan or practitioner but have an idea for a project that could be a good fit for the RFP, at least one artisan or practitioner should be included on your project team. Projects may include documentation and inventorying of artisan practices, methodologies, or designs; capacity development through structured apprenticeships, workshops, or trainings focused on local or regional stakeholders (including in the use of sustainable or repurposed materials in traditional arts); or knowledge sharing through community exhibits, practitioner-archival collaborations, or other approaches focused on safeguarding local artisan traditions and practices. Projects should include efforts to support sustainable transmission of traditions across generations and describe proposed activities and impacts in detail. Relevant artistic practices and living traditions for this RFP may include but are not limited to craft, music, adornment, dance, and spoken arts. Proposals will be evaluated for feasibility, applicant experience, strength of community engagement, capacity building, and novel contributions. Projects addressing an urgent need pertaining to the sustainable preservation or transmission of a particular art or practice may be prioritized.

Benefits

• Up to $20,000 in funding for Level I grants, up to $40,000 for Level II grants.
• Grant recipients become members of the National Geographic Explorer Community and eligible for a variety of future funding, learning and networking opportunities.
• Potential to be featured on LEX social media channels, and/or in the annual LEX-NG Fund Traveler Impact Report (the latest version of the Impact Report can be found here).
• Potential guest speaking opportunities aboard NG-LEX vessels.
• Opportunities to connect and collaborate with other LEX-NG Fund grantees.

The Zayed Sustainability Prize: Global High Schools recognizes innovative sustainability projects by high school students from six regions worldwide, aiming to impact health, food, energy, and water sectors. The prize encourages student-led initiatives that foster sustainability and community involvement. Winning schools can receive up to $150,000 to implement their projects, promoting educational growth and long-term benefits for their communities. This award not only highlights creativity but also inspires future generations of leaders in sustainable development.

National Geographic Society

For more than 130 years, the National Geographic Society has funded the best and brightest individuals dedicated to scientific discovery and understanding of our world.

Our historic commitment to dauntless exploration dates back to our founding in 1888 when 33 prominent scholars and scientists established an organization dedicated to the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.”

Today, National Geographic Explorers are continuing to push the boundaries of knowledge, uncovering new insights about the natural and cultural worlds, and strengthening our connection to them and one another.

Developing Future Ocean Stewards

How does the ocean shape your life? How do you shape the ocean?

The ocean functions as Earth’s primary life support system. It produces half the oxygen we breathe, regulates our global climate, and sustains the livelihoods of over 3 billion people. Yet, human activities are putting our ocean in serious danger. Pollution and unsustainable industrial practices are damaging ocean habitats that are crucial for climate regulation, sustaining marine biodiversity, and supporting the global blue economy.

To combat this, we need to promote “Ocean Literacy” – an understanding of the ocean’s influence on humanity and humanity’s influence on the ocean. The knowledge-deficit model of ocean literacy assumes that increasing public education and awareness about the marine environment will lead to pro-ocean actions. However, it has not sparked large-scale behavior change.

Education without emotional resonance does not move people to act. To save our ocean, we have to expand what it means to be ocean literate. We need to foster and support ocean stewards: people who feel connected to the ocean and take responsibility for enacting change in their communities.

What we aim to fund with this call

The National Geographic Society aims to invest in ocean literacy by funding projects that focus on community-based projects that help people form strong emotional bonds with the ocean and develop or deepen a sense of ocean identity through immersive learning experiences. These projects will address the socioeconomic, psychological, cultural, and physical barriers to developing or embodying an ocean connection. This call values a “one water system” perspective, which emphasizes the fundamental understanding that all water on Earth is interconnected. As such, we aim to reach populations who are often excluded from conservation dialogues. Through these projects, learners will gain the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to develop a reciprocal relationship with the ocean, becoming ocean stewards.

Projects funded through this RFP must:

• Be led by an individual with a strong connection to and/or an existing track record of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place, or by a member of the community themselves, and be designed with the community and/or reflective of the community’s needs
• Tailor ocean literacy to their specific cultural and geographic realities

We are particularly interested in projects that are transdisciplinary, mixing natural and social sciences. For example, projects that combine storytelling, local knowledge, and ocean-focused design

This RFP is also interested in projects in National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions destinations, including the Arctic, Asia, Baja California, Costa Rica and Panama, Europe and the Mediterranean, Patagonia, the Peruvian Amazon, the Pacific Northwest, Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, the South Pacific, and the United Kingdom and Ireland. For more detailed information on targeted areas within these regions, please refer to the targeted areas document.

Proposals may contain one or both elements of the following:

• Project: a pilot of a new learning solution, or scaling of a learning solution with some evidence of effectiveness, to a new geography or population of learners
• Research: Measurement of the effectiveness of educational innovations

Projects must pilot, scale, or measure the effectiveness of educational innovations that develop learners of all ages’ skills, attitudes, and knowledge needed to foster ocean stewardship

Candidate must demonstrate a strong connection to and/or an existing track of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place; the project should be designed in response to community needs and include ongoing collaboration or co-creation with the local community(ies) throughout the project.

Funding

• Grant recipients become members of the Explorer Community and eligible for future funding, learning and networking opportunities.
• All Ocean RFP grantees will become part of a cohort experience to include virtual gatherings intended to promote networking amongst grantees, relationship building, sharing of lessons learned, and impact communications

Funding may be awarded in either a Level I or Level II grant. (See the guidelines/details on Level I and Level II.)

Level I Grant

What is a Level I (LI) grant?

LI grants are designed for individuals who may be earlier in their career, those looking to establish themselves better in their field, or those who want to grow their network and enhance their impact by joining a global community of National Geographic Explorers.

LI grants are open to those who are not currently a National Geographic Explorer. Individuals in our network who are not yet Explorers, including team members on previous grants, Young Explorers awarded in 2019 or later, or recipients of discretionary funding opportunities such as the COVID-19 Emergency Fund for Journalists and the COVID-19 Remote Learning Emergency Fund, and grant recipients from the China Air & Water Fund may apply for a Level I opportunity.

National Geographic Society

For more than 130 years, the National Geographic Society has funded the best and brightest individuals dedicated to scientific discovery and understanding of our world.

Our historic commitment to dauntless exploration dates back to our founding in 1888 when 33 prominent scholars and scientists established an organization dedicated to the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.”

Today, National Geographic Explorers are continuing to push the boundaries of knowledge, uncovering new insights about the natural and cultural worlds, and strengthening our connection to them and one another.

Developing Future Ocean Stewards

How does the ocean shape your life? How do you shape the ocean?

The ocean functions as Earth’s primary life support system. It produces half the oxygen we breathe, regulates our global climate, and sustains the livelihoods of over 3 billion people. Yet, human activities are putting our ocean in serious danger. Pollution and unsustainable industrial practices are damaging ocean habitats that are crucial for climate regulation, sustaining marine biodiversity, and supporting the global blue economy.

To combat this, we need to promote “Ocean Literacy” – an understanding of the ocean’s influence on humanity and humanity’s influence on the ocean. The knowledge-deficit model of ocean literacy assumes that increasing public education and awareness about the marine environment will lead to pro-ocean actions. However, it has not sparked large-scale behavior change.

Education without emotional resonance does not move people to act. To save our ocean, we have to expand what it means to be ocean literate. We need to foster and support ocean stewards: people who feel connected to the ocean and take responsibility for enacting change in their communities.

What we aim to fund with this call

The National Geographic Society aims to invest in ocean literacy by funding projects that focus on community-based projects that help people form strong emotional bonds with the ocean and develop or deepen a sense of ocean identity through immersive learning experiences. These projects will address the socioeconomic, psychological, cultural, and physical barriers to developing or embodying an ocean connection. This call values a “one water system” perspective, which emphasizes the fundamental understanding that all water on Earth is interconnected. As such, we aim to reach populations who are often excluded from conservation dialogues. Through these projects, learners will gain the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to develop a reciprocal relationship with the ocean, becoming ocean stewards.

Projects funded through this RFP must:

• Be led by an individual with a strong connection to and/or an existing track record of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place, or by a member of the community themselves, and be designed with the community and/or reflective of the community’s needs
• Tailor ocean literacy to their specific cultural and geographic realities

We are particularly interested in projects that are transdisciplinary, mixing natural and social sciences. For example, projects that combine storytelling, local knowledge, and ocean-focused design

This RFP is also interested in projects in National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions destinations, including the Arctic, Asia, Baja California, Costa Rica and Panama, Europe and the Mediterranean, Patagonia, the Peruvian Amazon, the Pacific Northwest, Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, the South Pacific, and the United Kingdom and Ireland. For more detailed information on targeted areas within these regions, please refer to the targeted areas document.

Proposals may contain one or both elements of the following:

• Project: a pilot of a new learning solution, or scaling of a learning solution with some evidence of effectiveness, to a new geography or population of learners
• Research: Measurement of the effectiveness of educational innovations

Projects must pilot, scale, or measure the effectiveness of educational innovations that develop learners of all ages’ skills, attitudes, and knowledge needed to foster ocean stewardship

Candidate must demonstrate a strong connection to and/or an existing track of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place; the project should be designed in response to community needs and include ongoing collaboration or co-creation with the local community(ies) throughout the project.

Funding

• Grant recipients become members of the Explorer Community and eligible for future funding, learning and networking opportunities.
• All Ocean RFP grantees will become part of a cohort experience to include virtual gatherings intended to promote networking amongst grantees, relationship building, sharing of lessons learned, and impact communications

Funding may be awarded in either a Level I or Level II grant. (See the guidelines/details on Level I and Level II.)

Level II Grant

What is a Level II (LII) grant?

LII grants are designed for individuals who are more established in their field, have previously received a grant from the National Geographic Society, or are seeking a higher level of funding. You are not required to have previously received a grant from the National Geographic Society to apply for this opportunity.

Projects at this level should push the boundaries of the applicant’s field or discipline and be designed to achieve significant and tangible impacts. LII grants are open to those who are already National Geographic Explorers, as well as those who are not Explorers.

About Us

Mission & Values

The Community Foundation works in many roles including that of a funder, partner, and catalyst for change in Snohomish County. Our board and staff have been on a dedicated journey to dismantle racism and oppressive policies in our organization, in our teams and in ourselves. 

Strengthen community and thoughtfully change lives.

Rick Steves Europe Fund - Capacity Grants

At Rick Steves’ Europe, we view travel as a potentially life-changing experience. Teaching good and thoughtful travel is our number one priority. As travel teachers, we inspire people to acquire the skills necessary to make their trip an enjoyable, economical, smooth, and rewarding experience. We strive to be “teachers first,” and encourage travelers, as well as our employees, to be thoughtful, cooperative, and respectful, be open to change and considerate of new ideas, and have a willingness to learn new skills.

Our capacity grant program is intended to enable Snohomish County nonprofits to invest in infrastructure to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their fundraising, finances, leadership, and sustainability. Basically, we want to help you work better.

We understand that many nonprofits focus their resources on supporting their direct service programs, but we believe that with strong and well-supported back offices, nonprofits can increase their capacity to serve the community.

The committee is interested in funding small grass roots organizations who have traditionally been overlooked by grant opportunities in the past. Organizations with budgets of less than $1,000,000 will be prioritized.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Community Enrichment Grants

Outcome and Priorities

This program is designed to fund public facilities, services and other activities that strengthen existing communities and support a high quality of life within the following state priority areas:

• Economic competitiveness and resiliency
• Education and workforce development
• Safe and healthy communities

Project investments should contribute to quality of life and the long-term vitality of communities. Activities must have the broad support of citizens and local businesses. Buildings and brownfield sites should be owned by the local government. Note that costs for operating or maintaining public facilities are not eligible for CDBG, so building projects must demonstrate financial viability. Equipment for public service activities must be for new or expanded services and generally associated with a significant capital investment in facilities. Only major pieces of equipment that have a durable life of five years will be considered for funding.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Local Priorities Program

Outcome and Priorities

This program is designed to address unique local and regional needs and priorities for addressing those needs through community development, including projects that reflect priorities established in conjunction with the S.C. Department of Commerce Business Incentives & Community Development Division. Projects may reflect community development needs that are not typically funded through the other State CDBG programs and generally should not be funded by other HUD partner programs, such as HOME and NHTF (affordable housing), ESG (homelessness) or HOPWA (special needs). These funds will be used for alternative grant activities and partnerships that meet the community development needs of eligible municipalities. Local Priority projects could include historic preservation, innovation, energy conservation, parks, and trails/greenways. New or expanded public service activities are also eligible. Projects should leverage other funding or include local funding; impact identified needs and demonstrate strong community support while meeting a National Objective and all other requirements. 

The Solidarity Fund Grant, part of the Black Feminist Fund, aims to empower Black feminist movements by providing essential resources. Acknowledging the historical underfunding of these movements, the fund supports groups led by Black women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals. It focuses on solidarity efforts that foster collaboration and joint campaigns, enabling activists to drive social change. This initiative is crucial for advancing justice, self-determination, and equity within communities, ensuring that Black feminist visions are amplified and sustained.