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Best Paleontology Grants

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

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8 Results based on applied filters

COA Grants to Malacology

Conchologists of America, Inc
Association/Society
United States
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.
Malacology (Molluscs)

AAPS: A. Allen Graffham Paleontology Research Grant

Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000
The A. Allen Graffham Paleontology Research Grant, administered by the Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences, provides $1000 annually to support researchers publishing on specimens collected by AAPS members. Established in honor of A. Allen Graffham, a pioneering figure in paleontology, this grant fosters collaboration and acknowledges contributions to the field. Eligible applicants must be affiliated with AAPS members and prioritize proper acknowledgment of fossil sources in their research.
Paleontology

Karl Hirsch Memorial Research Grants

Western Interior Paleontological Society
Association/Society
United States
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.
Paleontology

James Lee Wilson Award

Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM)
Association/Society
Texas
Unspecified amount
The James Lee Wilson Award, presented by the Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM), recognizes outstanding contributions to sedimentary geology by young scientists. This prestigious award encourages emerging researchers to excel in their fields and fosters the growth of sedimentary geology as a discipline. Notably, there are no age restrictions for nominees, and recognition is open to individuals beyond SEPM members, emphasizing inclusivity and the importance of diverse contributions to the science.
Paleontology Stratigraphy Sedimentology

GSA Graduate Student Research Grants

Geological Society of America (GSA)
Association/Society
Canada, Central America +2 more
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.
Geology Geoinformatics & Geospatial Sciences Palynology +20 more

David B. Jones Foundation Grant

David B Jones Foundation
Private
United States
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.
Paleontology

Brinson Foundation Grant

The Brinson Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +6 more
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.
Career / College Preparation Medical Education & Professional Training Civil Rights +5 more

AMNH Collection Study Grants

American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)
Private
New York County, New York
US $500 - US $1,500
The AMNH Collection Study Grants support pre-doctoral and early career postdoctoral researchers in studying scientific collections at the American Museum of Natural History. These grants provide partial funding for travel and subsistence during visits to the museum, encouraging projects of four days or longer. With limited housing at $100 per day, funds must be utilized between July 1 of the application year and June 30 of the following year for eligible investigators.
Anthropology & Cultural Studies Invertebrate Zoology Paleontology +3 more

Paleontology Grants Highlights

In search of grants for paleontological field work, conservation, and public education? Our listings include grants for dinosaur research, fossil preservation, and educational outreach on ancient life. Instrumentl’s extensive database keeps you updated with current opportunities.

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Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 2026.

Frequently asked questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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