Best Wildlife Grants

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

The Heritage Partnership Program, managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, aims to foster collaboration on projects that deliver conservation and recreational benefits. Eligible entities include governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and 501c3 organizations. With specific funding categories for habitat management, public access enhancement, and urban wildlife conservation, projects must be completed within one year, following the state fiscal year. Note that no funding is available for FY26 as all funds are obligated.

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 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.

The Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program aims to restore and sustain healthy forests, rivers, and streams to support diverse native bird and aquatic species. Funded by major organizations including the Richard King Mellon Foundation, this initiative focuses on improving forest management and stream health to enhance wildlife populations. Strategies include engaging landowners through education and financial assistance, targeting species like the golden-winged warbler and brook trout to ensure ecological balance and habitat connectivity.

The Klamath Basin Forests and Watersheds Restoration RFP aims to enhance critical fish habitats in the Klamath River Basin following the historic removal of four dams. With up to $11,553,000 in funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this initiative seeks to restore populations of native fish species and improve habitat conditions. The program will support various conservation projects, ensuring the ecological integrity of this vital ecosystem is preserved for future generations.

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.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The Northern Great Plains Grant Program, initiated by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to conserve and restore grasslands and wildlife in the Northern Great Plains. With approximately $22 million available in grants for 2025, the program focuses on sustaining healthy populations of grassland-obligate species while promoting sustainable livelihoods and preserving cultural identities, including tribal cultures and food sovereignty. Key funding partners include multiple federal agencies and private organizations.

The WA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (WRE) supports landowners in protecting and restoring wetlands degraded by agricultural activities. This program enhances wildlife habitats, improves water quality, and offers various easement options, including permanent and 30-year easements, with funding for restoration costs. With a focus on climate resilience and biodiversity, WRE encourages participation from eligible private landowners and Indian tribes, promoting sustainable land management practices.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) supports farmers and ranchers in North Dakota to implement conservation practices aimed at improving soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats. Through financial and technical assistance, EQIP addresses critical natural resource concerns, including erosion, water conservation, and climate resilience. The Greater Sage Grouse Initiative emphasizes voluntary, incentive-based conservation efforts, enhancing the ecological landscape while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) aims to enhance environmental quality by providing financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers and forest landowners in North Dakota. The Migratory Bird Resurgence Initiative, part of EQIP, focuses on conserving wetlands to support migratory bird populations. This program emphasizes sustainable practices that improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats, ultimately aiding farmers in their conservation efforts while promoting ecological balance in vital agricultural areas.

The Latin American/Caribbean Conservation Research Grant, sponsored by the American Ornithological Society, aims to support early career scientists conducting conservation research on migratory and resident birds in Latin America and the Caribbean. Grants of up to $5,000 USD will be awarded for projects that demonstrate innovative approaches and actionable outcomes. Eligible applicants must have a graduate degree and a strong commitment to ethical research practices. Proposals are welcome in multiple languages, but abstracts must be in English.

The Desert Tortoise Council invites proposals for conservation projects aimed at enhancing desert tortoise populations and habitats. With a funding opportunity of $9,000, the RFP emphasizes the importance of in situ conservation efforts such as habitat restoration and predator control. Projects must be completed within the current year in the Mojave Desert region. Applicants are required to submit detailed proposals, including budgets and project descriptions, and must report outcomes post-completion.

The Private Forest Accord Grant aims to fund projects that benefit various species covered under the anticipated Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). This program prioritizes initiatives that restore habitats, eliminate threats, and enhance overall ecosystem health. Eligible projects can span multiple types, including implementation and stakeholder engagement, with funding requests typically starting at $50,000. The program emphasizes collaboration and effective strategies for the recovery of native salmon and trout species and other targeted wildlife.

The Global Raptor Research & Conservation Grant, offered by HawkWatch International, supports crucial projects focused on raptor conservation in high-priority regions such as Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. With funding available up to $2,500, the grant encourages applications from local citizens associated with NGOs or universities. Preference is given to projects that address knowledge gaps and have a significant impact on conservation efforts, particularly those led by early-career researchers in low-income countries.

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.

The IDNR: State Duck Stamp Funding program supports the development of waterfowl propagation areas in the Mississippi Flyway. Funded by sales of State Migratory Waterfowl Stamps, it focuses on projects in Canada and the U.S. that enhance waterfowl populations. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations aiming to implement the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. This initiative not only fosters wildlife conservation but also strengthens ecological sustainability in the region.

The Cameron Award supports field research on native rodents across the Americas, encouraging studies in ecology, behavior, physiology, and conservation. It is available to students in MS or PhD programs and postdoctoral researchers in the U.S. Applicants must be ASM members. Funds cover supplies, equipment, and travel, but not salaries or meeting travel. The award aims to enhance understanding of rodent ecology and their impact on ecosystems.

The Herman H. Nettelroth Grant focuses on supporting children and families in Jefferson County, KY. It funds projects that enhance playgrounds, day nurseries, public libraries, and scholarships for the University of Louisville. The grant prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate community demand, measurable outcomes, and sustainability, while encouraging collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years of operations and prior project impact documentation available before applying.

The CHPAS Conservation & Education Grants aim to support the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems, focusing on wildlife and their habitats. Grants are available for conservation projects, scholarships for educational events, and outreach initiatives to enhance community awareness of wildlife. Funding requests can be made for amounts up to $500, targeting applicants in specific Wyoming counties. This program emphasizes the importance of biodiversity and community involvement in conservation efforts.

The David S. Lee Fund for the Conservation of Caribbean Birds provides annual grants to innovative conservation projects aimed at protecting Caribbean birds and their habitats. Established by donations from family members of the late naturalist David S. Lee, this fund encourages participation from local conservation groups and communities. Eligible applicants include students and early-career professionals who are members of BirdsCaribbean, focusing on projects that directly benefit local bird species and promote sustainable practices.

The Marine Mammal Commission is inviting proposals aimed at developing innovative tools and methods for enhancing marine mammal stock assessments. This initiative focuses on creating cost-effective strategies to estimate population sizes and assess human-caused mortality. Applicants can be from within or outside the U.S., and projects must contribute to science-based management. The funding limit is set at $75,000, encouraging novel approaches to improve the reliability of critical data in marine conservation.

The Friends of the Island Fox Research Grant offers $7,000 to support research aimed at enhancing scientific understanding of island fox biology, health, behavior, and ecology. This funding is part of the Friends of the Island Fox's mission to ensure the long-term survival of this unique species. Applications are welcomed from researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge in these critical areas.

The Pecos Watershed Conservation Initiative Grant, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, aims to restore and sustain healthy rivers and grasslands in the Pecos watershed across New Mexico and Texas. With $2.5 million available, this initiative supports voluntary conservation projects focused on habitat restoration, species intervention, and increasing baseline species information. Key partners include the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and major corporations, highlighting a collaborative effort for environmental conservation.

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.