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Best Marine Grants
Find marine grants for ocean conservation, habitat restoration, marine biology research, and coastal resilience
63
Available grants
$31.6M
Total funding
$125K
Median grant
63
grants
$31.6M
total
$125K
median
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US $40,000 - US $150,000
11th Hour Racing Grant
Rolling deadline
The 11th Hour Racing Grant supports initiatives aimed at restoring ocean health through local stewardship and sustainable practices. It focuses on projects that promote ocean literacy, clean technologies, and ecosystem restoration. Grants are available for organizations addressing climate change's impact on marine environments, with an emphasis on collaboration, measurable outcomes, and replicable solutions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and international entities, though projects must avoid political advocacy and general funding.
11th Hour Racing
US $5,000 - US $75,000
Comis Foundation Grant
Rolling deadline
The Comis Foundation Grant aims to provide equitable opportunities for children to thrive through education and community engagement. It supports innovative programs that enhance educational outcomes, focusing on areas such as capacity building and pilot projects. With funding ranging from $5,000 to $75,000, the foundation prioritizes nonprofit organizations that foster inclusive environments. By emphasizing trust and collaboration, Comis Foundation strives to create lasting impacts in the communities it serves.
The Comis Foundation
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
DISCOVERY Yacht Expedition Grant Program
Rolling deadline
The DISCOVERY Yacht Expedition Grant Program, managed by the International SeaKeepers Society, invites marine scientists to submit research proposals for expeditions on private vessels. This initiative promotes ocean research, education, and conservation through high-impact projects. Each proposal must demonstrate scientific significance and outline participant roles. A Principal Investigator is required to secure necessary permits, ensuring a collaborative and impactful research experience at sea.
International SeaKeepers Society
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US $25,000 - US $1,200,000
Infrastructure Capacity for Biological Research (347679)
Rolling deadline
The Infrastructure Capacity for Biological Research Program, supported by the National Science Foundation, aims to enhance research capabilities across various biological disciplines. This program encourages proposals for developing and improving research tools and services in areas such as Cyberinfrastructure and Biological Collections. It also welcomes planning activities to foster collaboration among researchers. Projects must ensure broad accessibility and significant scientific outcomes for the wider research community.
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Unspecified amount
Marine Geology and Geophysics
Rolling deadline
The Marine Geology and Geophysics Core Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, supports innovative research in oceanic geology and geophysics. It encompasses studies on ocean basin structures, paleoclimate changes, submarine volcanology, and marine geohazards. The program aims to foster cutting-edge projects that involve fieldwork, analytical methods, and data synthesis, encouraging cross-program collaboration within NSF's Geosciences division. Proposals should seek guidance for inter-program submissions.
National Science Foundation (NSF)
US $10,000 - US $40,000
Munson Foundation Grant - Marine Resource Conservation
Rolling deadline
The Munson Foundation Grant focuses on marine resource conservation in eastern North America and the Caribbean, emphasizing sustainable practices in fisheries. With an annual budget of approximately $1.2 million, grants typically range from $10,000 to $40,000, supporting projects in South Florida and Alabama. Eligibility includes a 1:1 matching requirement and confirmation of board member contributions. The foundation prioritizes organizations dedicated to preserving vital ecosystems and addressing environmental issues.
The Curtis & Edith Munson Foundation
Up to US $9,000,000
Ocean Drilling Grant
Rolling deadline
The Ocean Drilling Grant, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), facilitates research in marine geosciences through the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP). Proposals for pre- and post-expedition studies are accepted, particularly during the expedition moratorium period. This grant aims to enhance scientific understanding of climate and geological processes through innovative drilling techniques and collaborative international efforts, ensuring the scientific community has access to valuable data and research outcomes.
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Up to US $20,000
Rapid Ocean Conservation (ROC) Grant
Rolling deadline
The Rapid Ocean Conservation (ROC) Grant, initiated by the Waitt Foundation, offers swift funding for innovative solutions to conservation challenges affecting island nations. This program prioritizes projects that support sustainable fishing and marine protection, emphasizing scientific research, policy advocacy, management, and communication efforts. ROC Grants are especially aimed at local NGOs and projects aligned with Blue Prosperity Coalition partnerships, ensuring impactful conservation initiatives with a focus on urgent needs in marine ecosystems.
Waitt Foundation
Unspecified amount
Saw Island Foundation: Social Change, Faith-Based and Special Grants
Rolling deadline
The Saw Island Foundation provides Social Change, Faith-Based, and Special Grants to nonprofit organizations focused on community betterment. They support initiatives that enhance economic security and promote Christian education. While active engagement is primarily in the San Francisco Bay Area, they welcome extraordinary projects aligned with their mission. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. The foundation does not fund individual grants, political activities, or lobbying efforts.
Saw Island Foundation
Approximately US $10,000
Animal Protection Program Grants
Letter of inquiry due Jul 1, 2026
The Animal Protection Program Grants, offered by the Summerlee Foundation, aim to support organizations focused on rescuing and advocating for animals. With a strong emphasis on sterilization and vaccination in underserved communities in the Americas, these grants prioritize projects that address the root causes of animal suffering. The foundation has contributed over $65 million to various initiatives, ensuring that the most overlooked animals receive the help they need. Applications open December 1, 2025.
The Summerlee Foundation
Unspecified amount
KM Shimano Family Foundation Donations
Applications due Jul 1, 2026
The KM Shimano Family Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the world through education, engagement, and conservation, with a particular focus on marine environments. Our initiatives include supporting organizations engaged in marine animal rescue, research, conservation, and education, as well as promoting water conservation, especially in saltwater and brackish ecosystems. Through our contributions, we aim to foster a healthier oceanic ecosystem and raise awareness about marine life challenges.
Km Shimano Family Foundation
Unspecified amount
Environmental Grant Program - Environmental Health Area
Applications due Jul 16, 2026
The Marisla Foundation's Environmental Grant Program focuses on promoting biological diversity and sustainable ecosystem management. Established in 1986, it supports 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental entities in addressing environmental health issues caused by toxic chemicals. The program also encourages international projects through donor-advised fund partners. However, it does not fund individuals or political activities and limits applications from any one organization to one per year, with indirect costs capped at 15%.
Marisla Foundation
Up to US $40,000
FY 2026 Ocean Technology Transition Program
Applications due Jul 16, 2026
The FY 2026 Ocean Technology Transition Program, led by the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®), aims to enhance ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes observational capabilities. By investing in the transition of innovative technologies from research to operational status, IOOS seeks to address pressing challenges in data management and product development. The program targets mature technologies with demonstrated customer commitment, ensuring effective integration and long-term use in monitoring environmental conditions.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
US $10,000 - US $30,000
Weeden Foundation Grant
Letter of inquiry due Aug 2, 2026
The Weeden Foundation Grant supports biodiversity conservation initiatives worldwide. It prioritizes projects that protect endangered species, restore habitats, and promote sustainable practices. The foundation funds 501(c)(3) organizations or their international equivalents, focusing on areas such as bird conservation, marine wildlife protection, and systemic support for environmental policies. Applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry four weeks before the application deadline, and the foundation does not fund multi-year grants or projects outside its focus areas.
Weeden Foundation
Unspecified amount
Biological Oceanograhy
Applications due Aug 17, 2026
The Biological Oceanography Program, supported by the National Science Foundation, promotes essential research in biological oceanography and marine ecology across diverse environments, including estuarine and deep-sea ecosystems. Proposals should focus on population, community, or ecosystem ecology, contributing significantly to marine or Great Lakes ecosystem understanding. This program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and co-funding opportunities with various NSF divisions. For more information, visit the NSF website.
National Science Foundation (NSF)
US $50,000 - US $1,000,000
Pacific Seabird Program RFP
Applications due Aug 21, 2026
The Pacific Seabird Program RFP, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, invites proposals aimed at enhancing seabird conservation from 2022 to 2027. This initiative seeks to address the threats faced by at-risk seabird species through habitat restoration, invasive species management, and reducing bycatch in fisheries. Projects within four specific Pacific regions are eligible, focusing on long-term resilience and population recovery for these vital species.
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Up to US $10,000
Bonnell Cove Foundation Grant
Applications due Sep 1, 2026
The Bonnell Cove Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in North America focused on safety at sea and marine environmental initiatives. With a funding limit of $10,000, it prioritizes well-defined projects that can be evaluated for impact. Proposals are accepted biannually, with deadlines on February 1 and September 1 for March and October reviews, respectively. The Foundation seeks innovative solutions for personal safety equipment and environmental stewardship, emphasizing projects that promote sustainable practices in marine operations.
Bonnell Cove Foundation
£100,000 - £150,000
Environment - Marine Focus Area Grant
Applications due Sep 1, 2026
The Environment - Marine Focus Area Grant, offered by the Waterloo Foundation, focuses on supporting projects that mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems. This grant prioritizes initiatives that aim to halt the decline of fish stocks in developing countries and promote sustainable fisheries management in Wales. Eligible applicants include UK-based charities, and the foundation encourages proposals that demonstrate measurable outcomes and sustainable practices.
Waterloo Foundation, The (TWF)
Unspecified amount
FY 2024 - 2026 - Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Announcement Type: Initial
Applications due Oct 1, 2026
The FY 2024 - 2026 Broad Agency Announcement by NOAA aims to promote innovative research, education, and outreach projects that are not covered by competitive programs. It emphasizes collaboration across sectors to enhance ocean exploration and understanding. Funding is subject to available appropriations, and applicants should be aware that no funds have been allocated yet. The initiative seeks to protect ocean health and sustainably manage marine resources while bolstering the national economy.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Unspecified amount
FY 2024 - 2026 - Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Office of Education
Applications due Oct 1, 2026
The FY 2024 - 2026 Broad Agency Announcement by NOAA seeks innovative research and outreach projects that enhance marine and coastal ecosystem viability. This funding opportunity is contingent on appropriations and does not guarantee specific awards or project funding. NOAA emphasizes collaboration with federal, state, and local partners to remain adaptive in addressing climate change and providing vital weather and water services, ensuring ongoing improvement in their information and services.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Unspecified amount
FY 2024 - 2026 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), National Marine Fisheries Service
Applications due Oct 1, 2026
The FY 2024 - 2026 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) by the National Marine Fisheries Service invites applications for special projects that align with NOAA Fisheries' strategic goals. This announcement provides essential guidelines for the public on application selection and federal assistance administration. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, emphasizing readiness and alignment with NOAA's mission to enhance marine resource management.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Up to €80,000
Pure Ocean Challenges Call for Projects
Pre proposal due Oct 1, 2026
Pure Ocean invites innovative projects focused on marine conservation through its 2025 Call for Projects. This initiative emphasizes sustainable practices, engaging local communities, and exploring nature-based solutions. It seeks to address critical themes such as marine pollution, biodiversity protection, and ecosystem resilience amid climate change. By supporting scientific research and public awareness efforts, Pure Ocean aims to safeguard fragile marine ecosystems and inspire collaborative action for a healthier ocean.
Pure Ocean Fund
Up to US $250,000
Exemplary Pathways to STEM Graduate Education: Seed
Full proposal due Oct 5, 2026
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation's initiative, "Creating Equitable Pathways to STEM Graduate Education: Seed," aims to enhance graduate education access for students from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). The program provides grants of up to $500,000 to foster partnerships between MSIs and various higher education institutions. Projects should focus on overcoming barriers to success in graduate studies, including recruitment and admission processes, thereby promoting equitable learning environments in STEM fields.
Alfred P Sloan Foundation
Up to US $75,000
Exemplary Pathways to STEM Graduate Education: Planning
Full proposal due Oct 5, 2026
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation's Creating Equitable Pathways to STEM Graduate Education initiative aims to foster partnerships between Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and graduate programs. By addressing barriers in graduate education, the initiative seeks to promote equitable learning environments. Planning grants will support collaborations that assess needs and develop systemic changes to enhance pathways for students in STEM fields, ensuring that all students can thrive in their academic pursuits.
Alfred P Sloan Foundation
Up to US $3,000
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: Travel Award Supplement
Applications due Nov 16, 2026
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation offers a Travel Award Supplement aimed at supporting Ph.D. students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. This funding of up to $3,000 enables trainees to participate in off-site workshops or training programs to enhance their research skills. Eligible applicants must be active researchers in CF projects, with a minimum of one year of experience. The program excludes conference attendance and for-profit entities, ensuring focused support for advancing cystic fibrosis research.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Up to US $5,000
Turtle Conservation Fund Grant
Applications due Dec 1, 2026
The Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) supports critical research and conservation projects for endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles. With funding between $1,000 to $5,000, TCF prioritizes projects addressing species listed as Critically Endangered or Endangered by the IUCN. Smaller seed grants of up to $1,000 are also available for pilot initiatives. TCF aims to foster survival and recovery of these species through targeted funding and strategic partnerships.
Turtle Conservation Fund
US $50,000 - US $200,000
Nationwide Fishing Trap, Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program
Applications due Apr 1, 2027
The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.
Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS)
Showing 27 of 63 results.
Sign up to see the full listMarine Grants Highlights
Marine grants provide funding to support ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries, and marine research initiatives. The following grants help nonprofits protect marine ecosystems, combat pollution, and promote sustainable practices for ocean health.
Search Instrumentl's Marine Grants Database
Find 63 funding opportunities for marine-focused initiatives, with $31.6M available. Instrumentl supports organizations with grant-matching tools, deadline reminders, and funder research to advance marine conservation efforts.
Top Searched Marine Grants
Frequently asked questions
Nonprofits, research institutions, conservation organizations, and government agencies focused on marine conservation, oceanography, and sustainable fisheries are eligible to apply. Many grants also support climate resilience and coastal restoration efforts.
Marine grants generally have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q2, with 29.7% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q1.
Marine grants fund projects that promote ocean conservation, sustainable fishing practices, marine biodiversity protection, and climate change adaptation. Funders seek to advance marine research and protect aquatic ecosystems.
On average, grants that support marine life and related research provide funding between $1,000 and $11,250,000, with typical awards falling around $125,000 (median) and $672,640 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.
Organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Pew Charitable Trusts, and marine-focused private foundations provide Marine grants.
State and local governments also provide funding for marine biology research, and ocean and coastal conservation. Some corporate funders like Restore America’s Estuaries also offer fundings through their National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program.
To improve grant success, nonprofits should:
- Align with marine conservation priorities – Tailor proposals to match current marine conservation goals and focus areas.
- Demonstrate Environmental Impact – Provide data-driven results to show the positive effects of their project on the marine environment.
- Build Strategic Partnerships – Collaborate with scientists, policymakers, and local fishing communities to strengthen their proposals and enhance credibility.
- Develop a Compelling Narrative – Use real stories and case studies to highlight the significance and potential of your marine conservation project.
Not sure how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.
Instrumentl makes it easier for marine researchers and conservation groups to find and apply for grants. It helps them discover the right funding opportunities, keep track of deadlines, and understand what funders are looking for. This way, organizations can manage their applications more efficiently and focus on protecting our oceans. Discover how the University of Illinois centralized grant information to make work more collaborative and efficient.
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