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Search Through Paleontology Grants

Explore paleontology grants for fossil research, field studies, education, and museum curation initiatives

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Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Brinson Foundation Grant supports organizations in the greater Chicago area and focuses on education and scientific research. It encourages personal initiative and individual freedoms, aiming to enhance self-worth and dignity. The Foundation prioritizes programs that provide quality education and basic scientific research, particularly in underfunded areas. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, while inquiries from those that discriminate or focus on religious activities are not accepted.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The David B. Jones Foundation Grant supports educational, research, and charitable initiatives in paleontology within the United States. Established in 1998, it offers various funding types, including one-time, multiyear, and challenge grants, focusing on projects that promote the science of paleontology. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations aligned with the foundation's mission, prioritizing programs that engage young fossil hunters and public education through museums. The foundation does not fund individual requests or religious organizations.

Rolling deadline

US $10,000 - US $25,000

The Explorers Club Impact Grants support groundbreaking field research across various scientific disciplines, including biological sciences, archaeology, and ecology. Aimed at enhancing scientific understanding and resource conservation, these grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, helping researchers and explorers illuminate their findings. The program emphasizes innovative approaches and storytelling to engage a global audience, while ensuring that projects align with the Explorers Club's mission to mitigate climate change and protect biodiversity.

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Rolling deadline

Up to US $1,500

The National Speleological Society (NSS) offers Research Grants to its members for cave-related studies in natural and social sciences, as well as the humanities. Proposals can be submitted anytime, with funding decisions made biannually in January and June. Applicants must ensure compliance with ethical standards and legal requirements. Grants aim to promote the scientific study and conservation of caves while encouraging responsible exploration and knowledge sharing in the community.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Toomey Foundation Grant Program invites proposals from qualified not-for-profit organizations for research in archeology, astronomy, or paleontology. Projects must showcase scientific merit and educational value, along with a letter of support from an appropriate authority. Applications are required to be submitted by mail, clearly indicating benefits to science and education, with a defined completion date. This grant provides an opportunity to advance knowledge in the natural sciences.

Applications due May 1, 2026

Up to US $650

The Archaeological Geology Division: Claude C. Albritton, Jr. Award supports graduate students pursuing Master's or Doctoral degrees in Earth sciences or archaeology. This scholarship encourages the integration of Earth sciences with archaeological research. Eligible candidates should demonstrate a commitment to academic research and teaching. The award covers research-related expenses, excluding tuition and salaries, and is open to both US and international students, fostering interdisciplinary studies in various geological and archaeological fields.

Applications due May 30, 2026

Unspecified amount

The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP) offers the Outreach and Education Grant to foster understanding and appreciation of vertebrate fossils. This grant supports members in developing educational programs and community engagement activities. Funded projects may involve field trips, curriculum development, community initiatives, and technological advancements. Recipients must submit a project summary within a year, ensuring that SVP resources are justified for proposals targeting undergraduate audiences.

Applications due Jun 30, 2026

US $1,500 - US $10,000

The Arts & Museums Project Grants (UT) support public projects that celebrate community richness through arts and museums. Although temporarily suspended due to funding constraints, these grants typically provide $1,500 to $10,000 for initiatives across various disciplines, including festivals, exhibitions, and educational activities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations showcasing significant arts or cultural activities, fostering community engagement, and preserving artistic traditions.

Applications due Sep 15, 2026

Up to US $3,000

The Jurassic Foundation offers grants to support research on dinosaur paleontology, encouraging students and researchers from developing nations. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over 350 grants, facilitating discoveries and career advancements in paleontology. Grants up to $3,000 are available, with an average of $1,000 to $2,000. Applicants must demonstrate their project’s impact on understanding non-avian dinosaurs or Mesozoic birds. Contacting the Foundation prior to application is advised for guidance.

Applications due Oct 8, 2026

US $1,500 - US $3,000

The Rising Explorer Grant, offered by The Explorers Club, empowers high school and undergraduate students to pursue their scientific research ambitions with funding between $1,500 and $3,000. This grant supports innovative field science projects across diverse disciplines, including biology, ecology, and archaeology. By fostering young explorers, it opens doors to valuable career opportunities in science and promotes contributions to global knowledge and environmental well-being.

Applications due Oct 13, 2026

Unspecified amount

The Exodus Exploration without Boundaries Grant, supported by the Explorers Club and Exodus Adventure Travels, encourages expeditions that enhance our understanding of the world through diverse scientific, cultural, and conservation efforts. Open to researchers aged 18 and older, the grant prioritizes unique projects led by indigenous explorers and those addressing ambitious research questions. With nearly 50 years of commitment to equitable exploration, this program aims to support explorers from all backgrounds in their quest for knowledge.

Applications due Oct 13, 2026

US $10,000

The Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program, sponsored by The Explorers Club, supports marine exploration and conservation projects. This program is open to undergraduates, graduate students, and independent explorers under 35, focusing on fieldwork in marine research. Grants of $10,000 will be awarded, prioritizing unique data collection and ambitious research questions. Notably, proposals for work in China or by Chinese citizens are not accepted due to restrictions. This initiative aims to enhance environmental health and empower communities.

Applications due Oct 13, 2026

US $5,000

The Explorers Club, in collaboration with Fjällräven, offers the Fjällräven Field Grant to promote scientific exploration and research. This grant supports explorers under 35 engaged in fieldwork related to conservation and sustainability. It prioritizes projects addressing ambitious research questions and values unique data collection. With a commitment to conservation, education, and community, the grant aims to enhance our understanding of environmental changes and the interconnectedness of wildlife and human societies worldwide.

Letter of inquiry due Nov 12, 2026

Up to US $5,400

The Lewis and Clark Fund for Exploration and Field Research Grants supports innovative field studies across various disciplines, including archaeology, biology, and geology. Open to doctoral students and U.S. citizens, it encourages research that collects specimens and data worldwide. Applicants must focus on dissertation-related work, with budgets primarily for travel and field expenses. Preference is given to those without previous awards from the Fund. This grant fosters direct observation and exploration in the natural sciences.

Applications due Nov 16, 2026

Unspecified amount

The RGGS Postdoctoral Fellowships at the American Museum of Natural History support postdoctoral researchers in diverse scientific fields including Anthropology, Zoology, and Paleontology. These fellowships typically last two years, offering competitive salaries, benefits, and limited support for relocation and research activities. Candidates are encouraged to contact potential sponsors before applying and must ensure their projects align with the museum's research priorities. Special funding opportunities are available for interdisciplinary projects, enhancing the fellowship experience.

Applications due Dec 16, 2026

Unspecified amount

The AMNH Graduate Student Fellowship Program collaborates with top universities to train Ph.D. candidates in various scientific disciplines. Students benefit from mentorship by Museum curators and access to university facilities, enhancing their research capabilities. The program includes partnerships with institutions like Columbia University, NYU, and Stony Brook University. Eligibility is limited to first-time applicants applying to participating Ph.D. programs, ensuring a focused selection of candidates dedicated to scientific advancement.

Applications due Jan 30, 2027

Approximately US $800

The SEPM Foundation offers the Student Research Grant to foster research and education in sedimentary geology. This initiative supports approximately 2,700 sedimentary geoscientists, including 691 students, by promoting academic excellence and professional development. The program aims to enhance diversity in the field and prepare future geoscientists through funding opportunities for research and collaboration. By investing in young talent, SEPM strengthens the sedimentary geology community's leadership and impact on societal needs.

Applications due Feb 1, 2027

Up to US $1,000

The Karl Hirsch Memorial Grants, established in honor of Karl Hirsch, support innovative research in paleontology and related fields. These grants fund activities such as museum travel, specimen collection, and advanced analyses. Preference is given to first-time applicants and WIPS members, although active membership is no longer a requirement. Past grant recipients must have met reporting obligations to be eligible. This initiative aims to foster diverse research projects and advance the field of paleontology.

Applications due Feb 1, 2027

Up to US $5,000

The Arthur James Boucot Research Grant, established by Dr. Arthur James Boucot and Barbara Boucot, supports original research conducted by early career paleontologists, including postdoctoral students and pre-tenure assistant professors. This grant emphasizes projects related to invertebrate paleontology, particularly those focusing on Paleozoic fossils. Applications are encouraged from global researchers, with the stipulation that grant recipients must be members of the Paleontological Society and not subject to U.S. economic sanctions.

Applications due Feb 19, 2027

Approximately US $2,500

The GSA Graduate Student Research Grants provide essential funding for master's and doctoral research in geological sciences for students in North America and Central America. In 2024, approximately $800,000 was awarded to 316 students, averaging around $2,500 each. The program aims to enhance the geoscience workforce, promote career development, and support diversity within the field. Applications require an appraisal from a primary advisor, and participation from underrepresented communities is encouraged.

Applications due Feb 28, 2027

Up to US $2,500

The Conchologists of America (COA) offers grants up to $2,500 for research on recent or fossil mollusks. This funding is available for projects that explore malacological topics, ensuring that the proposed work is self-contained and capable of addressing specific research questions. While COA encourages applications for amounts less than the maximum, funding is not typically awarded to high school students or for institutional overhead. This initiative supports a wide range of malacological disciplines.

Applications due Mar 1, 2027

Up to US $1,000

The Western Society of Malacologists offers Student Research Grants in Malacology to support research in the study of mollusks. Grants of up to $1000 are available for full-time students engaged in relevant projects. Applicants from all countries are welcome, with no citizenship restrictions. This initiative encourages students to present their findings at WSM meetings, promoting academic growth and collaboration within the malacological community.

Applications due Mar 16, 2027

US $500 - US $3,500

The Lerner-Gray Fund for Marine Research Grants support early career scientists in marine zoology, focusing on systematics, evolution, ecology, and behavioral studies of marine animals. These grants cover fieldwork expenses, including travel, subsistence, and supplies, but not salaries or permanent equipment. Eligibility is open to advanced predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers, with no formal educational restrictions. Non-US citizens should be aware of potential visa requirements and tax implications.

Applications due Apr 1, 2027

Unspecified amount

The SVP Wood Award, named in honor of Dr. Albert E. Wood, supports student research on vertebrate fossils and natural history collections. It aims to advance vertebrate paleontology, promote cooperation among researchers, and encourage the conservation of fossil sites. Open to current SVP members, both graduate and undergraduate students are eligible to apply. Proposals should focus on collection-based work that enhances existing fossil materials, fostering a deeper understanding of vertebrate evolution.

Applications due Apr 8, 2027

Unspecified amount

The Marvin and Beth Hix Preparators’ Grant, offered by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, aims to enhance the field of Vertebrate Paleontology through preparation advancements. This grant honors the Hix family's contributions and supports projects such as training apprenticeships and workshops, particularly covering travel expenses for learning or teaching preparation techniques. Eligibility requires current SVP membership, ensuring that only engaged professionals can apply.

Applications due Apr 8, 2027

Unspecified amount

The Patterson Memorial Grant, named after Dr. Bryan Patterson, supports innovative student field work in Vertebrate Paleontology. Eligible applicants must be current members of the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, and both undergraduate and graduate students can apply. The grant emphasizes unique and adventurous proposals that push the boundaries of traditional research in the field.

Applications due Apr 8, 2027

Unspecified amount

The SVP Dawson Grant, awarded by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, supports graduate students in their research within Vertebrate Paleontology. It emphasizes excellence in scholarly contributions and professional activities, requiring applicants to be current SVP members and PhD candidates. This grant enables recipients to fund vital dissertation research activities, including travel, data collection, and analyses, thus fostering their academic careers and contributions to the field.

Showing 27 of 30+ results.

Paleontology Grants Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of nonprofits can qualify for Paleontology grants?

Nonprofits engaged in paleontology, fossil exhibition, science education, conservation efforts, are eligible for paleontology grants. These grants are available to academic institutions, research organizations, and science-focused nonprofits. Organization must contribute to the advancement of paleontology or prehistoric life.

Why are Paleontology grants offered, and what do they aim to achieve?

Paleontology grants primarily support three areas: prehistoric life research, fossil preservation, and public education in paleontology. Funding is awarded to organizations that conduct field-based scientific research and contribute to museum preservation work. In addition, educational programs which generate awareness of scientific findings have a high chance of receiving funding.

Who typically funds Paleontology grants?

Institutions dedicated to paleontological studies serve as a key funding source for research and conservation efforts. The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology offers over 20 funding multiple opportunities to support paleontology research. Private foundations, like the American Museum of Natural History, fund postdoctoral research.

Instrumentl currently likes over 30 grant opportunities for paleontology related activities.

What strategies can nonprofits use to improve their success rate for Paleontology grants?

Here are three tips to ensure that your organization will successfully apply for grants for paleontology studies:.

Thoroughly research potential funders – Identify funders with priorities that match your organizational goals. Reviewing each donor’s website to make sure that the donor you are interested in is a good fit.
Build a detailed financial plan –Show funders that you are that you are committed to your project and understand the costs associated. A throughout budget proves you are serious about receiving funding.
Showcase previous work – Highlighting past successful projects increases the likelihood of winning grants because it shows commitment and dependability.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

How can Instrumentl simplify the grant application process for Paleontology grants?

Instrumentl simplifies the grant process by creating a list of active paleontology funding opportunities that match your funding needs. The platform provides users with tools for grant tracking, deadline management, and funder research. Instrumentl streamlines the application process and improves funding success.

Learn more about Instrumentl’s and how you can scale your grant funding.