Best Wildlife Grants in Texas

Texas 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on preserving the natural environment can receive up to US $2,500 for grassroots wildlife, habitat, and water conservation projects. The Environmental Fund of Texas provides Texas wildlife and habitat groups with startup or small-scale project support, including on-campus native gardens and community-engaged conservation efforts benefiting at-risk native species.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and public, tax-exempt schools in Texas can access funding for wildlife and habitat conservation projects through the Environmental Fund of Texas, with awards of US $2,501 - US $12,000. Grants support native wildlife, habitat and ecosystem restoration, freshwater and land conservation, and public engagement with nature across the state.

Texas 501(c)(3) conservation nonprofits completing a Tier 2 grant and collaborating with multiple partners can seek up to US $25,000 for habitat and wildlife projects. With a mission to preserve Texas’s natural environment, The Environmental Fund of Texas supports work on water, natural areas, native wildlife, and conservation-focused classroom initiatives.

Texas wildlife and conservation organizations can access funding through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s State Wildlife Grants to implement the Texas Conservation Action Plan and conserve species of greatest conservation need. Eligible projects in Texas may focus on herpetological, ornithological, mammalian, or botanical conservation and must provide a 35% non-federal match.

Texas conservation organizations and land stewards can apply for Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Great Texas Birding Classic Conservation Grants, awarding US $1,000 - US $20,000 for avian habitat acquisition, restoration, and wildlife-viewing enhancements. Eligible Texas projects must be long-term conservation sites with public access components and include bird monitoring or related conservation outcome measurements.

Universities and nonprofit or public agencies in Texas conducting wildlife research on priority mammal conservation topics can apply for Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation’s Wildlife Research Grant, with awards around Approximately US $200,000 on a 75:25 cost-share basis. Eligible projects focus on wild birds or mammals and their habitats, supporting wildlife-focused work in Texas.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with budgets under $250,000 that run animal welfare or wildlife preservation projects, including work in Texas, can apply for the Lauren Townsend Memorial Wildlife Fund, awarding US $500 - US $5,000 for specific programs. Smaller organizations focused on herpetological, ornithological, mammalian, or habitat conservation may be especially competitive.

Texas 501(c)(3) organizations working on wildlife conservation, animal welfare, or related education and research may be eligible for this funding, which prioritizes San Antonio and surrounding counties. The Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation also supports health and wellness and arts initiatives, but wildlife habitat, animal safety, and conservation programs are central funding areas.

Texas private landowners and conservation partners restoring or protecting wildlife habitat can access funding through the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. This national program supports habitat and wildlife conservation projects, with awards up to US $750,000, and requires applicants to consult a local program office before applying.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations caring for abandoned or abused pets, especially dogs, or improving wildlife welfare can seek up to US $5,000 for specific programs, including in Texas. With a mission to support animal well-being, Ray Rowe Trusts for Animals funds projects aiding pets or conserving wildlife, particularly canid species.

Tax-exempt 501(c)(3) and 509(a) organizations working on wildlife and environmental conservation, education, or human services, including Texas-based groups, can apply for McGraw Foundation grants of US $2,000 - US $10,000. Funding may support general operations, specific projects, or occasionally capital efforts, with some larger awards for unusually promising conservation or research initiatives.

Wildlife and land conservation nonprofits in Texas seeking capital funding for specific equipment or property acquisitions can apply for grants from the T.S. & K.D. Glide Foundation. Grants from T.S. & K.D. Glide Foundation help Texas herpetological, ornithological, mammalian, and broader habitat conservation groups, as well as animal protection and agricultural organizations, with up to US $50,000 for eligible capital needs.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations working on wildlife and habitat protection, policy advocacy, or endangered species conservation can apply for Park Foundation’s animal welfare grants. National efforts, including those in Texas, that support pollinators, wolves, whales, birds, indigenous wildlife management, or great ape sanctuaries may be eligible, with LOIs accepted year-round.

About

The American Society of Mammalogists (ASM) was established in 1919 for the purpose of promoting interest in the study of mammals.

ASM Mission Statement

The mission of the American Society of Mammalogists is to advance the scientific understanding of mammals globally, to diversify the profession of mammalogy, and to promote science as the basis for the conservation and management of mammals. The Society achieves these goals through publications, grants and fellowships, annual meetings, and other education and outreach activities.

Stephen Jenkins Scholarship in Mammalogy

One of Steve Jenkins’ most meaningful legacies is found in the hundreds of students he taught and mentored over his 37 years in the Biology Department at the University of Nevada, Reno. He taught a wide range of classes including introductory biology, ecology, mammalogy and research design, and served as graduate advisor to more than 30 students. His research focused on beavers, wolves, wild horses, and ground squirrels. Steve worked to pass on his own belief that critical thinking is not just a fundamental tenet of sound science, but a force for good. He wrote the book How Science Works, an effort to demystify the scientific process for nonspecialists. In his retirement he wrote a second book, Tools for Critical Thinking in Biology. Steve has been a member of American Society of Mammalogists (ASM) since 1974.

Scope and Rationale of the Award

The new Stephen Jenkins Scholarship Award would be available to a graduate student in a North American university whose research is focused on one or more mammalian species. This would include field research (and lab research that supports and augments field research) in such fields as animal behavior, ecology, evolution, and conservation biology. ASM supports research on all aspects of mammalian biology, and the award will provide support for early career mammalogists. 

Use of Funds:

The award may be used only for research expenses, in the field or in the laboratory, research related travel, laboratory supplies, equipment, and attendance at professional meetings.  The current award is for $5000.

The NAWCA U.S. Standard grants provide competitive matching funds to support partnerships aimed at the long-term protection, restoration, and enhancement of wetlands and associated upland habitats in the U.S. These projects benefit migratory birds and promote ecological sustainability. A 1:1 match is required. The program seeks to improve wetland ecosystems, ensuring the conservation of waterfowl and other wildlife, while fulfilling international conservation obligations.

Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund Grants

Empowering People to Move, Live, Work, and Play

Bridgestone has awarded over $60 million to nonprofit organizations in the United States since 1951, and we are committed to continuing our legacy of giving back by supporting communities around the U.S.

Bridgestone works with grantseekers that offer solutions to keep society moving forward. Strong partners offer a human-centered approach to societal challenges in one or more of the following areas of focus: 

In addition to our three areas of focus, we will consider applications from organizations that have hosted volunteer or community engagement events with Bridgestone volunteers and organizations that have received funding in previous years. 

Nonprofits, individuals, and Indiana Bird Towns working on bird conservation, research, or education in Texas and beyond can apply for funding to support studies, projects, or training. With a mission to advance ornithological conservation, Indiana Audubon Society provides US $500 - US $5,000 for initiatives focused on natural resources and avifauna, with priority for Indiana and Great Lakes projects.

Researchers, educators, nonprofits, and agencies working on bird conservation and related wildlife issues in Texas and beyond can apply for Arkansas Audubon Society Trust grants, awarding US $500 - US $1,200 for research, conservation, and education projects. Priority is given to projects focused on birds in Arkansas, with funds spent within the U.S.

Focused on mammalian conservation, eligible research institutions and conservation organizations in Texas and across the U.S. can seek National Fish and Wildlife Foundation funding to combat white-nose syndrome in bats. Grants of US $50,000 - US $250,000 support treatments, management tools, habitat strategies, and collaborative research to improve survival and recovery of affected bat species.

The William Brewster Memorial Award, awarded by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exemplary contributions to ornithological science through a significant body of work on Western Hemisphere birds published in the last decade. This prestigious award honors the legacy of William Brewster, a founding member of the American Ornithologists' Union, and includes a medal and honorarium funded by the William Brewster Memorial Fund. Nominations are open to all, fostering diversity in ornithology.

The Ralph W. Schreiber Conservation Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society (AOS), honors individuals or small teams for exceptional contributions to bird conservation. Recognizing efforts in applied research, habitat preservation, and educational initiatives, this award aims to encourage the scientific study of birds and promote ethical practices in ornithology. Nominees must be AOS members, ensuring a commitment to the society's mission of fostering a diverse and engaged ornithological community.

The Peter R. Stettenheim Service Award, established by the American Ornithological Society in 2018, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to ornithology and the society. This award recognizes those who have served in various capacities, highlighting volunteer work, mentorship, and committee involvement. It is named after Peter Stettenheim, a notable leader in ornithology, who was dedicated to advancing the field and supporting fellow ornithologists throughout his career.

The Marion Jenkinson Service Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors early- and mid-career ornithologists for their extensive volunteer contributions and service to the society. This award includes a framed certificate and recognizes individuals who exemplify high ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct. The award aims to foster a diverse and supportive ornithological community while promoting bird conservation and scientific study.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

Women's Wildlife Management Conservation Scholarship

The Women’s Wildlife Conservation Scholarship, established by the NRA Women’s Policies Committee, is a renewable one-year $5,000 scholarship available to full-time college sophomores, juniors, or seniors. Thank you for your interest in the field of wildlife management, forestry, parks, or fish and wildlife conservation.

Scholarship Value

$2,500 per semester for up to two semesters. Recipients must maintain qualifications listed above to receive second installment.

The Conservation Practitioner Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes dedicated professionals at any career stage who address avian conservation issues at local or regional levels. This award includes a certificate and a $1,000 honorarium, acknowledging the critical work of individuals or groups in government or non-government organizations. The AOS aims to promote ethical standards and support a diverse community of ornithologists committed to bird conservation.

The Ned K. Johnson Early Investigator Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exceptional early-career researchers in ornithology. Awardees receive a certificate, a $1,500 honorarium, and complimentary registration for the annual meeting, where they can present a plenary. Candidates must have received their doctorate between 2019 and 2022, and demonstrate ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct. This award fosters leadership and innovation in bird conservation and research.

Wilson Ornithological Society

The earliest stages of the Wilson Ornithological Society’s development began with the formation of the “Young Ornithologists’ Association,” initiated in 1886 under the leadership of L. O. Pindar and J. B. Richards. They began as a corresponding group of naturalists interested in birds, with notes published in The Oölogist.

Soon after, the Society acquired a constitution and established itself in December 1888 as the Wilson Ornithological Chapter of the Agassiz Association. The fledgling group was named in honor of Alexander Wilson, considered the Father of American Ornithology. Its original purpose was “the study of birds, their nests, and eggs.”

Over the subsequent decades, the group—eventually becoming known as the Wilson Ornithological Club—published its proceedings and articles under a series of diverse titles, culminating in The Wilson Bulletin after 1894 and, most recently, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology. The Club adopted its Constitution and Bylaws in 1930 and became the Wilson Ornithological Society in 1955.

Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award

The Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award recognizes outstanding contributions by Wilson Ornithological Society (WOS) members working in applied, non-research careers that advance the conservation of birds and their habitats. This award also celebrates professionals whose work fosters a stronger and more inclusive conservation community, through management, education, communication, advocacy, or community engagement.

Purpose

This award highlights the diverse pathways through which people contribute to lasting ornithology and avian conservation beyond academic research. It honors those whose efforts build bridges between science, management, and the public; inspire action for birds; provide mentorship or leadership to build capacity; and promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the bird conservation community.

Examples of Qualifying Contributions

• Developing and implementing habitat management or conservation plans.
• Creating tools, educational materials, or outreach programs that promote bird conservation.
• Leading advocacy, communications, or storytelling that inspires conservation action.
• Building partnerships or community engagement initiatives that strengthen conservation impact.
• Advancing conservation policy or planning at local, regional, or national scales.

Award and Presentation

The recipient will be recognized at the 2026 Wilson Ornithological Society Annual Meeting, where they will be invited to share their work with attendees. The award includes:

• A monetary honorarium
• An original piece of artwork from an early-career artist
• Coverage of meeting registration, travel, lodging, and per diem expenses