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Best Marine Grants

Find marine grants for ocean conservation, habitat restoration, marine biology research, and coastal resilience.

196

Available grants

$82.5M

Total funding

$20K

Median grant

196 grants
$82.5M total
$20K median

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196 Results based on applied filters

Albert W. and Helen C. Meserve Memorial Scholarship

Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA)
Private
Fairfield County, Connecticut, Litchfield County, Connecticut
Approximately US $3,000
The Albert W. and Helen C. Meserve Memorial Scholarship supports students from specific Connecticut communities pursuing degrees in environmental sciences or nursing. Administered by the Center for Scholarship Administration, the scholarship varies in amount and is applied towards tuition and related costs. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate leadership qualities, and attend an accredited four-year institution as full-time students. The scholarship is non-renewable and can be awarded for up to four years.
Agriculture Plant Science Ecology +7 more

OPCFHK Conservation Funding

Ocean Park Conservation Foundation Hong Kong
Private
Asia, Papua New Guinea
Up to HK $1,000,000
The OPCFHK Conservation Funding program aims to ensure the survival of threatened Asian wildlife, particularly the giant panda and Chinese white dolphin. This initiative encourages innovative conservation projects that deliver measurable results, promote public awareness, and involve local communities. With a focus on endangered species and their habitats, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with climate change, marine conservation, and terrestrial wildlife protection, fostering collaboration between local and international researchers.
Wildlife Management Climate Change Resilience & Equity Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +5 more

Community Response Fund Grant

Northwest Fund for the Environment (NWFE)
Private
Washington
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Community Response Fund Grant by the Northwest Fund for the Environment supports local organizations addressing urgent community needs. It focuses on grassroots engagement and environmental movement building, providing short-term funding for projects that empower under-resourced communities and enhance environmental advocacy. The grant aims to promote smart growth policies and protect Washington's aquatic ecosystems by funding initiatives that advance sustainable practices and resilience against climate change. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with a clear project plan.
Urban Planning Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation +2 more

Robert L. Johnson Memorial Research Grant

Midwest Aquatic Plant Management Society
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
Up to US $10,000
The Robert L. Johnson Memorial Research Grant, offered by the Midwest Aquatic Plant Management Society, supports graduate students in aquatic plant management with grants of up to $10,000. This initiative promotes research that advances the management of aquatic ecosystems and fosters educational opportunities. Recipients are required to present their findings at the annual conference, contributing to the society's mission of sustainable aquatic resource management and ecological preservation.
Plant Science Environmental Conservation Marine / Ocean Conservation +1 more

Future Conservationist Award

Conservation Leadership Programme
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +156 more
Up to US $15,000
The Future Conservationist Award by the Conservation Leadership Programme supports early-career conservationists in the Asia Pacific region. This grant invites proposals focused on protecting at-risk species, with eligibility criteria including project duration of three to twelve months and a team of at least three members. The award aims to empower individuals with less than five years of experience, fostering the next generation of conservation leaders dedicated to preserving global biodiversity.
Mammalian Conservation Herpetological Conservation Entomology +2 more

Student Research Awards

Australian Coral Reef Society
Association/Society
Australia and New Zealand
A $2,500 - A $4,000
The Australian Coral Reef Society (ACRS) is offering Student Research Awards in 2024 to support outstanding students researching Australian coral reefs. Up to five awards, including the $4,000 Terry Walker Prize and the $4,000 Danielle Simmons Prize, will be granted, along with three additional research awards of $2,500 each. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in an Australian or New Zealand university and pursuing a PhD or MSc focused on coral reef research.
Marine Biology Oceanography

CCAMLR Scientific Scholarship Scheme

Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources
Association/Society
Antarctica
Up to A $30,000
The CCAMLR Scientific Scholarship Scheme, established in 2010, aims to support early career scientists from all CCAMLR Members in engaging with the Scientific Committee's work. Scholarships of up to A$30,000 are available for participation in workshops and meetings over two years. The scheme prioritizes applicants who have not previously participated in CCAMLR activities and are actively contributing to key scientific areas, including krill dynamics and spatial management strategies.
Environmental Conservation Wildlife Management Marine Biology +2 more

Nature Conservation Grants: Marine

The Turing Foundation
Private
Algeria, American Samoa +62 more
Unspecified amount
The Turing Foundation offers Marine Nature Conservation Grants aimed at fostering sustainable relationships with nature. They focus on protecting marine nurseries in developing countries and combating climate change. While there is no open application process, organizations may be invited directly to submit proposals. It is encouraged to keep the foundation informed about relevant activities. This initiative highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity, particularly in vital ecosystems like coral reefs and mangroves.
Fisheries Marine / Ocean Conservation Coastal Conservation

Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program

Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species
Association/Society
Delaware, District of Columbia +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program invites proposals for funding to tackle aquatic invasive species (AIS) challenges. Key priorities include research on AIS management, innovative control methods, and educational outreach. Eligible applicants range from individuals in government agencies to non-profit organizations. The program seeks to support initiatives that align with the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force standards and aims to enhance regional AIS management strategies.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation Invasive Species Control

PTES Worldwide Conservation Insight Grants

People’s Trust for Endangered Species
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +136 more
£3,000 - £20,000
The PTES Worldwide Conservation Insight Grants support scientific research and practical conservation efforts aimed at preserving endangered species. Grants range from £3,000 to £10,000 annually, up to a total of £20,000 over two years. Eligible applicants include researchers and conservationists working on critical conservation questions or local actions. The fund prioritizes projects with clear, sustainable outcomes that benefit endangered species and their habitats, particularly in low-income countries.
Herpetological Conservation Mammalian Conservation Marine / Ocean Conservation +2 more

Nearshore Marine Resource Conservation Grant

Harold K. L. Castle Foundation
Private
Hawaii
US $100 - US $4,000,000
The Nearshore Marine Resource Conservation Grant, offered by the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, seeks to enhance Hawaii's coastal ecosystems through collaborative governance. This grant focuses on reducing land-based pollution, improving resource management capacity, and fostering community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public schools serving Hawaii. The foundation emphasizes measurable outcomes, aiming for substantial increases in managed marine areas and effective governance practices to assure long-term sustainability for future generations.
Natural Resources Marine / Ocean Conservation Coastal Conservation +1 more

California Watershed Protection Fund Grant

Rose Foundation For Communities And The Environment
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +18 more
Up to US $40,000
The California Watershed Protection Fund Grant supports projects aimed at enhancing water quality and protecting watersheds throughout California. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $40,000, eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations and governmental entities. Priority is given to initiatives that engage impacted communities and uphold principles of equity and environmental justice. The fund emphasizes hands-on activities that yield tangible benefits for surface water quality, fostering community-based stewardship in response to fluctuating watershed needs.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management Marine / Ocean Conservation +4 more

Environmental Grant Program - Marine Resources Conservation Area

Marisla Foundation
Private
California, Chile +5 more
Unspecified amount
The Environmental Grant Program by the Marisla Foundation focuses on marine resources conservation, emphasizing the protection of biodiversity in regions like California, Northwest Mexico, Hawaii, and the Western Pacific. Established in 1986, the foundation supports tax-exempt organizations and encourages sustainable ecosystem management. Grants are not available to individuals or for political activities. The program aims to foster international projects through donor-advised funds, reinforcing its commitment to environmental health.
Marine / Ocean Conservation

William E. & Maude S. Pritchard Charitable Trust Grant

Maude Pritchard Char Trust Xxxxx2009
Private
Nassau County, New York, Suffolk County, New York
Unspecified amount
The William E. & Maude S. Pritchard Charitable Trust Grant supports community development, health care, education, environmental conservation, and social services in Suffolk and Nassau Counties, New York. Established in memory of William E. Pritchard in 1982, it primarily funds project and capacity building initiatives. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, and proposals from research institutions are welcome. Funding is not available for individuals or private foundations.
Economic Services & Development Horticulture & Gardening Parks & Public Spaces +11 more

Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) Fellowship Programme

The Scientific Committee of Antarctic Research
Association/Society
Antarctica
Up to US $15,000
The SCAR Fellowship Programme, initiated by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research in 2002, aims to engage early-career researchers in Antarctic science and foster international collaboration. With over 80 fellowships awarded, the program allows PhD students and recent graduates to work in SCAR member countries, enhancing their research capabilities. This year, 4-5 fellowships will be awarded, each offering up to USD $15,000, with flexibility for remote projects due to ongoing travel challenges.
Astronomy & Astrophysics Ecology Natural Resources +7 more

Coastal Resilience Program RFP

National Sea Grant Law Center
Federal Government
Alabama, American Samoa +31 more
US $75,000
The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Environmental Policy Climate Change Resilience & Equity

Washington Coast Restoration and Resiliency Initiative

Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
State/Local Government
Clallam County, Washington, Grays Harbor County, Washington +6 more
Up to US $2,000,000
The Washington Coast Restoration and Resiliency Initiative provides critical funding and technical assistance to coastal communities in Washington State, addressing urgent ecological restoration needs while also creating jobs. Established by the Legislature in 2015, this program aims to enhance the health of the land and water, supporting both local economies and the environment. Projects funded must prioritize ecological protection and restoration, ensuring sustainable benefits for future generations.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Climate Change Resilience & Equity Marine / Ocean Conservation +2 more

Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board Grant

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW)
State/Local Government
Asotin County, Washington, Chelan County, Washington +19 more
Unspecified amount
The Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board Grant, established in 2014, aims to enhance salmon and steelhead migration by funding projects that remove fish passage barriers. With $25 million available through the PROTECT program, local governments can apply for projects exceeding $1 million. This initiative, administered by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Recreation and Conservation Office, supports sustainable transportation solutions while aligning with state conservation principles.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Marine / Ocean Conservation Fish Conservation

Washington Sea Grant: Sponsorship

Washington Sea Grant
State/Local Government
Washington
US $50 - US $2,500
Washington Sea Grant (WSG) supports the sustainable management of marine ecosystems and coastal communities in Washington State. With a mission to promote research and education, WSG provides funding for conferences and events that align with its goals. Organizations can apply for sponsorships ranging from $50 to $2,500, fostering collaboration and community engagement while ensuring equitable access to natural resources and decision-making processes for all.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Aquaculture Fisheries

Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account

Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $1,000,000
The Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account supports the protection and enhancement of aquatic lands in Washington State. Established in 1984, it funds projects that improve public access and restore ecological health. Eligible applicants include local and state agencies, as well as Native American tribes. Projects may involve the acquisition or restoration of aquatic lands, with a funding cap of $1 million, of which $500,000 can be allocated for development or restoration efforts.
Land / Habitat Conservation Coastal Conservation Outdoor Recreation +3 more

Healthy Harbors Fund Grant

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Healthy Harbors Fund, launched by Charleston Waterkeeper and the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League with support from Coastal Community Foundation, aims to enhance water quality in the Charleston Harbor area. The fund, bolstered by a $1 million settlement from a pollution lawsuit, will provide grants to local nonprofits focusing on critical issues such as plastics, bacteria, and climate resilience. This initiative encourages community engagement and aims to tackle pressing environmental challenges in the Lowcountry.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution Climate Change Resilience & Equity +1 more

NFWF: Hawai'i Conservation Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Hawaii
US $50,000 - US $200,000
The NFWF: Hawai'i Conservation Program addresses the urgent need to protect Hawaii's unique biodiversity. With over 10,000 native species at risk from invasive species, climate change, and habitat loss, this program focuses on restoring watershed functions, enhancing bird habitats, and promoting resilient coral reef ecosystems. By funding targeted conservation projects, NFWF aims to safeguard the islands' endemic species and restore the health of critical ecosystems vital for future generations.
Environmental Conservation Ornithological Conservation Marine / Ocean Conservation +2 more

Great Lakes Foundation Grant

Great Lakes Foundation
Private
Adams County, Indiana, Adams County, Wisconsin +126 more
Unspecified amount
The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation Recreational Water Use & Boating

Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation - General Grant

Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Tr
Private
Connecticut, District of Columbia +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation offers general grants aimed at promoting arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Currently, they are not accepting applications for 2025 but will reopen in January 2026. Eligible organizations must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) entities serving specific regions, with a focus on environmental, medical, and veterans initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission and provides opportunities for quality arts programming.
Performing Arts Visual Arts Diseases & Conditions +7 more

Environment Initiative Grants

Roy A Hunt Foundation
Private
United States
US $25,000 - US $75,000
The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.
Renewable/Sustainable Energy Waste Management Environmental Economics +7 more

Community Development Grants- Regular Grants (greater than $10,000)

The Abell Foundation Inc.
Private
Baltimore City, Maryland
More than US $10,000
The Abell Foundation's Community Development Grants support initiatives in Baltimore City that enhance quality of life and address urban poverty. The foundation prioritizes funding for organizations tackling systemic issues in education, workforce development, health services, community development, criminal justice, environment, and the arts. Grants over $10,000 are awarded to nonprofits and government agencies that demonstrate measurable impact and innovation, focusing on underserved populations to foster community engagement and sustainable growth.
Education - K through 12 Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Homelessness Services +36 more

Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Grants: Mini-Grants

Santa Clara Valley Water District
State/Local Government
Santa Clara County, California
Up to US $10,000
The Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Mini-Grants program by Valley Water supports community-led projects in Santa Clara County focused on safe drinking water, conservation, and flood protection. With grants up to $10,000 and no matching funds required, the program aims to empower diverse organizations to implement impactful projects. Recent updates streamline the application process and expand eligible costs, making it easier for community members to contribute to environmental stewardship and public benefit.
Freshwater Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Marine / Ocean Conservation +2 more

Marine Grants Highlights

Marine grants provide funding to support ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries, and marine research initiatives. The following grants help nonprofits protect marine ecosystems, combat pollution, and promote sustainable practices for ocean health.


Search Instrumentl's Marine Grants Database


Find 58 funding opportunities for marine-focused initiatives, with $63.8M available. Instrumentl supports organizations with grant-matching tools, deadline reminders, and funder research to advance marine conservation efforts.

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

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits, research institutions, conservation organizations, and government agencies focused on marine conservation, oceanography, and sustainable fisheries are eligible to apply. Many grants also support climate resilience and coastal restoration efforts.

Marine grants generally have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q2, with 27.1% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q1.

Marine grants fund projects that promote ocean conservation, sustainable fishing practices, marine biodiversity protection, and climate change adaptation. Funders seek to advance marine research and protect aquatic ecosystems.

On average, grants that support marine life and related research provide funding between $1,000 and $51,250,000, with typical awards falling around $116,250 (median) and $1,519,513 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Pew Charitable Trusts, and marine-focused private foundations provide Marine grants.

State and local governments also provide funding for marine biology research, and ocean and coastal conservation. Some corporate funders like Restore America’s Estuaries also offer fundings through their National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program.

To improve grant success, nonprofits should:

  • Align with marine conservation priorities – Tailor proposals to match current marine conservation goals and focus areas.
  • Demonstrate Environmental Impact – Provide data-driven results to show the positive effects of their project on the marine environment.
  • Build Strategic Partnerships – Collaborate with scientists, policymakers, and local fishing communities to strengthen their proposals and enhance credibility.
  • Develop a Compelling Narrative – Use real stories and case studies to highlight the significance and potential of your marine conservation project.

Not sure how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.

Instrumentl makes it easier for marine researchers and conservation groups to find and apply for grants. It helps them discover the right funding opportunities, keep track of deadlines, and understand what funders are looking for. This way, organizations can manage their applications more efficiently and focus on protecting our oceans. Discover how the University of Illinois centralized grant information to make work more collaborative and efficient.

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