Best Wildlife Grants

Nonprofit and fiscally sponsored 501(c)(3) organizations working on biodiversity and wildlife habitat in the Duluth-Superior region can apply for $5,000 - $50,000 small grants for one-year projects. Focus areas include habitat preservation and restoration, support for vulnerable species, climate adaptation planning, community-based research, and environmental education in eligible counties and Tribal Nations in northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the St. Louis, Missouri–Illinois metro area can seek funding for programs benefiting financially disadvantaged children through wildlife, zoology, or animal-focused experiences. Focused on conservation-related education and animal-assisted support, the Dana Brown Charitable Trust favors high-impact, collaborative projects that enhance children’s health, welfare, and understanding of the natural world.

The Margaret Middleton Fund supports annual grants of up to $20,000 for high-quality ecological research on endangered Australian native vertebrate animals. Open to PhD students and early-career researchers, this fund aims to enhance conservation efforts and enable impactful findings for management. Applicants must address ecological issues within Australian ecosystems, with a focus on empirical field-based research. The fund is managed by the Australian Academy of Science, ensuring accessibility for all eligible researchers.

The Lauren Townsend Memorial Wildlife Fund, established in 1999 in memory of Lauren Townsend, supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the U.S. focused on animal welfare and wildlife preservation. Grants are awarded to organizations with specific project funding needs and budgets under $250,000. Smaller nonprofits are encouraged to apply, while general operating expenses and lobbying activities are not funded. The fund honors Lauren's passion for animals, continuing her legacy of support for those in need.

Focused on wildlife and native plant conservation, this program invites Pennsylvania conservation organizations and researchers to apply for approximately US $30,000 to support survey, research, management, and habitat projects. Grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources can aid herpetological, ornithological, mammalian, botanical, and broader ecosystem conservation efforts.

Texas wildlife conservation nonprofits and research organizations can access funding to implement the Texas Conservation Action Plan and conserve species of greatest conservation need. Texas groups working in herpetological, ornithological, mammalian, or botanical conservation may be eligible for State Wildlife Grants from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which require a 35% non-federal match.

The Environmental Fund of Texas provides Texas wildlife and habitat nonprofits with up to US $2,500 for grassroots projects, start-up costs, and school-based native gardens. 501(c)(3) organizations focused on conserving water resources, natural areas, and at-risk native wildlife may be eligible for Tier 1 support involving community volunteers, teachers, and students.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools in Texas preserving natural habitats can apply for US $2,501 - US $12,000 to support wildlife and ecosystem conservation projects. Grants from The Environmental Fund of Texas help advance native wildlife protection, habitat restoration, freshwater and land conservation, and public engagement in nature-focused stewardship and education.

Texas 501(c)(3) conservation nonprofits collaborating on large-scale habitat, water, or wildlife projects can apply for up to US $25,000 to expand their impact. With a mission to preserve Texas’s natural environment, The Environmental Fund of Texas provides Tier 3 funding for multi-stakeholder initiatives, including classrooms taking action on on-the-ground conservation.

Students and researchers affiliated with Ohio colleges, schools, park districts, or 501(c)(3) conservation nonprofits can seek up to US $5,000 for wildlife and natural areas research in Ohio. With a mission to preserve Ohio’s natural heritage, Ohio Department of Natural Resources supports projects on habitats, species ecology, and land and water conservation.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in California dedicated to animal care, welfare, or preventing cruelty can apply for grants supporting direct intervention and education for animals. Grants from Thelma Doelger Trust for Animals help groups working with wild or domestic species, including herpetological, ornithological, and mammalian conservation, with a focus on Northern California and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Nonprofits, fiscally sponsored groups, schools, and public agencies on Cape Cod and the Islands can seek $1,000 - $5,000 for animal protection and welfare projects, including medical care and no-kill shelters. The Cape Cod Foundation’s Thomas C. McGowan Fund for Animals may benefit organizations advancing wildlife and broader animal welfare initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin working on education, community needs, or wildlife-related conservation can use this funding for programs and projects rather than individuals or general fundraising. Grants from the Jerome J. and Dorothy H. Holz Family Foundation help support youth education, food and housing security, cultural and scientific institutions, and civic initiatives in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties.

Grants from T.S. & K.D. Glide Foundation help U.S. wildlife and land conservation nonprofits acquire specific capital items. Eligible 501(c)(3) or 170(c) organizations with at least two years of effective service, especially California-based groups, may receive up to US $50,000 for animal protection, land and habitat conservation, wildlife management, and related agricultural or civic purposes.

The Whitney R. Harris and Saint Louis Zoo Fellowship in Animal Conservation offers a fully-funded master's or Ph.D. opportunity for motivated graduates. This fellowship aims to cultivate future leaders in animal conservation through a structured program that includes stipends, tuition waivers, and research funding. Enrolled fellows will participate in workshops and internships to enhance their impact in conservation efforts. The fellowship is a collaboration between the University of Missouri-St. Louis and the Saint Louis Zoo.

The Climate Resilience Grant Program in California aims to enhance community resilience and capacity by funding multi-benefit, nature-based solutions addressing climate change impacts. This initiative prioritizes projects related to urban and non-urban forest resilience, habitat restoration, and wildfire prevention, contributing to California's goal of conserving 30% of its lands and coastal waters by 2030. Grants typically range from $300,000 to $2,000,000, supporting crucial climate adaptation efforts.

The Rising Wildlife Leaders - Amazonia Program aims to cultivate a new generation of conservation leaders in the Amazon basin. This two-year initiative, supported by the Wildlife Conservation Network, offers tailored training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Participants will engage in workshops, develop personal growth plans, and receive funding for projects, fostering collaboration among conservationists dedicated to protecting the unique biodiversity of the Amazon. Applications are open every two years and require nomination.

U.S. 501(c)(3) and similar nonprofits working on wildlife and broader environmental conservation, education, or human services can apply for $2,000 - $10,000 from McGraw Foundation. With a mission to strengthen conservation and education, the foundation supports habitat and species-focused work, including herpetological, ornithological, and mammalian conservation, primarily in the greater Chicago area.

The Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in San Antonio and Bexar County through support for arts, education, health and wellness, animal welfare, and wildlife conservation. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that empower youth, promote health, and protect animal welfare, reflecting Mrs. Kelso's commitment to community enrichment. Organizations eligible for funding are primarily 501(c)(3) nonprofits, dedicated to making a positive impact in these focus areas.

Nonprofit organizations in Missouri working on zoological services and wildlife conservation can seek project support for education, animal conservation, and research. With a mission to back cancer awareness, disability services, children’s health, food banks, and zoological initiatives, the David B. Lichtenstein Foundation provides funding for Missouri-based programs rather than ongoing general operating support.

Wildlife conservation nonprofits in Georgia can seek up to US $25,000 to support habitat and species protection projects, including herpetological, ornithological, and mammalian conservation. Focused on community well-being, Georgia Power Foundation prioritizes Georgia-based 501(c)(3) organizations working to improve quality of life for residents and ecosystems.

With a mission to improve animal welfare, Ray Rowe Trusts for Animals provides U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations with up to US $5,000 for programs aiding abandoned or abused pets, especially dogs, or protecting wildlife habitat. Wildlife conservation groups working with mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, or canid species may be eligible.

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.

About Us

Who we are

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, serves the people of Utah by managing, sustaining and enhancing the state's wildlife populations and by conserving wildlife habitat. The division also oversees hunting and fishing opportunities statewide.

As public servants, DWR employees seek to balance social- and science-based management and are eager to cultivate and strengthen partnerships with any individual, organization or agency that will commit time or other resources to benefit wildlife or expand recreational opportunities.

We want to pass along our wildlife heritage to future generations, and we want it to be in better shape than when it was passed to us. We also actively work to preserve Utah's important hunting and fishing heritage in a way that benefits wildlife and Utah residents alike.

Utah is home to diverse and abundant wildlife, and the division has received national recognition for its wildlife management, world-class fisheries and variety of non-game species. DWR consistently performs wildlife transplants for turkeys, sage-grouse, bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, pronghorn and river otters. Ongoing work is being done to protect sensitive species, like native cutthroat trout, and to prevent federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. Popular fisheries are regularly stocked with hundreds of thousands of pounds of fish raised in division hatcheries.

The division's innovative habitat program leads North America in restoration efforts. Through Utah's Watershed Restoration Initiative and with the help of over 100 partners, the state has restored and rehabilitated nearly 2.25 million acres of land statewide.

Utah Species Protection Account

Protection, research, management and conservation

Utah's Species Protection Account — formerly the Endangered Species Mitigation Fund — has a mission to protect Utah's plant and animal species of greatest conservation need, as well as species recognized as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

The primary objective of the Species Protection Account is to direct funds toward the protection, conservation and recovery of federally listed species and species of greatest conservation need as identified in the Utah Wildlife Action Plan. Working with partners, our goal is to prevent additional species from being listed under the ESA, and work toward downlisting or delisting species already listed under the ESA.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Metropolitan Chicago and Wisconsin can seek funding for wildlife and habitat conservation, including herpetological, ornithological, mammalian, land, and freshwater conservation. The Patrick and Anna M Cudahy Fund also supports related environmental justice and community programs, which may benefit organizations integrating wildlife protection with broader community services.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on wildlife conservation, animal rehabilitation, local farming, or community services can apply for Gorman Foundation grants ranging from US $100 - US $100,000. Focused on social welfare, community education, and the environment, the foundation primarily supports work in Madison County, New York, including herpetological, ornithological, and mammalian conservation efforts.

Mission

The Biodiversity Fund supports efforts to maintain and strengthen biodiversity in the Duluth-Superior region through preservation and restoration of habitat, help for particular species and ecosystems, planning for changing conditions, research and education. The purpose is to consider now the value to future generations of the species and ecosystem diversity that will remain when/if human population stabilizes.

Biodiversity Fund

The Biodiversity Fund supports projects that preserve and restore habitats, assist vulnerable species and ecosystems, plan for environmental change, and promote research and education in the Duluth-Superior region.

The fund aims to protect the region's biodiversity through conservation, preservation, and restoration of natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

Biodiversity Fund- Large & Multi-Year Grants

The Fund may also support larger initiatives of up to $50,000 per year for up to three years, for projects that require sustained investment to achieve meaningful, long-term impact. ‍

Multi-year requests should demonstrate:

• A clear long-term vision with defined milestones that allow progress to be assessed prior to subsequent years of funding each year
• How the work will scale, adapt, or deepen impact over time
• Strong partnerships, stewardship plans, or systems-level outcomes
• A plan for sustainability beyond the grant period

What We Mean by Biodiversity

‍Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity of genes, species, and ecosystems and the complex relationships that sustain them. Biodiversity underpins ecosystem stability, climate resilience, and human well-being by providing essential services such as clean air and water, natural food systems, nature-derived medicines, and climate adaptation and regulation.

This grant recognizes that healthy natural ecosystems and sustainable native plant and animal communities are deeply interconnected — environmental degradation often exacerbates social inequities and instability of communities of habitats and ecosystems. Community-led solutions strengthen ecological outcomes.

Biodiversity Fund Priorities

Funded projects should demonstrate strength in several of the following areas. Not every project must address all principles, but competitive proposals will show clear alignment across multiple dimensions.

• Upstream & Preventative Focus
  • Projects address root causes rather than symptoms.
  • Prioritize prevention, restoration, and long-term solutions
  • Reduce risk and vulnerability for people, species, and ecosystems
  • Anticipate environmental and social change rather than reacting after harm occurs
• Collaboration & Community Voice
  • Projects are grounded in authentic partnership.
  • Build cross-sector collaboration (e.g., nonprofits, Tribal Nations, schools, governments, researchers, community groups)
  • Center the expertise and leadership of people with lived experience, including Indigenous knowledge and local ecological expertise
  • Share power in design, decision-making, and implementation
• Equity-Centered Impact
  • Projects advance equity for both people and place.
  • Prioritize historically marginalized communities and/or vulnerable species and ecosystems
  • Focus resources, decision-making power, or stewardship closer to impacted communities
  • Recognize how environmental harm and social inequity intersect
• Systems, Policy & Practice Change
  • Projects have transferability and relevance beyond a single site or program.
  • Improve institutional practices, policies, land-use decisions, or resource flows
  • Strengthen community-level systems related to housing, food security, climate adaptation, education, or conservation
  • Demonstrate potential for replication, scaling, or broader adoption
• Sustainability & Capacity Building
  • Projects plan for impact that lasts beyond the grant period.
  • Strengthen organizational, community, or ecosystem capacity
  • Build skills, infrastructure, stewardship, or long-term management plans
  • Promote ongoing care, monitoring, or adaptive management of natural systems
• Evidence of Change & Learning
  • Projects contribute to shared learning and understanding.
  • Use data, research, community knowledge, or storytelling to demonstrate impact
  • Measure ecological, social, or systems-level outcomes
  • Share lessons learned to inform future equity-, resilience-, and biodiversity-focused work