Here are 10 organizations providing research grants to African ecologists that you don’t want to miss out on this year!
Grants for African ecologists: Overview
Africa’s biodiversity is vast and uniquely rich, encompassing diverse ecosystems and species.
Promoting local research empowers African scientists to address conservation challenges with locally relevant solutions.
Organizations offering research grants to African researchers in the conservation field play a pivotal role in advancing environmental protection and sustainable practices across the continent.
These grants enable local scientists and conservationists to address pressing ecological issues, conduct essential research, and implement conservation strategies tailored to Africa’s unique biodiversity.
By funding initiatives that range from wildlife preservation to habitat restoration, these organizations empower African researchers to contribute valuable insights and solutions.
Organizations providing research grants to African ecologists
Below are some grant programmes available to African researchers in the field of biodiversity conservation:
1. AGNES-BAYER Fellowship
The AGNES-BAYER Fellowship supports doctoral students from sub-Saharan Africa in biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture.
It provides up to €7,000 for research activities, including fieldwork and data collection, fostering academic growth and development in their home countries.
Link: https://agnes-h.org/agnes-bayer-research-grant/
2. Jana Robeyst Trust Fund
The Jana Robeyst Trust Fund offers small conservation grants to early-career scientists and non-profit organizations in sub-Saharan Africa.
These grants support field conservation and research work, focusing on wildlife and habitat preservation.
Link: http://janatrustfund.org/index_en.html
3. British Ecological Society: Ecologists in the Global South Grant Program
The British Ecological Society’s Ecologists in Africa grants support innovative ecological research by African scientists.
These grants provide funding for fieldwork, equipment, and other research expenses, enabling ecologists to address critical environmental issues in Africa.
The program aims to foster scientific excellence and promote sustainable ecological practices across the continent.
4. Rufford Foundation
The Rufford Foundation offers small grants for nature conservation projects, supporting early-career researchers and conservationists.
These grants fund fieldwork, equipment, and other project expenses, helping to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable practices.
The foundation aims to empower individuals and organizations dedicated to preserving the natural environment.
Link: https://www.rufford.org/
5. Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP)
The Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP) supports early-career conservationists in developing countries.
It provides grants, training, and mentoring to help them tackle critical biodiversity challenges.
CLP aims to build leadership skills and foster a global network of conservation professionals dedicated to protecting the natural environment.
Link: https://www.conservationleadershipprogramme.org/
6. Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund provides small grants (up to $25,000) for species conservation projects worldwide.
It supports efforts to protect endangered species, recognizing and empowering conservationists working on the ground.
The fund aims to elevate the importance of species conservation in the broader environmental debate.
Link: https://www.speciesconservation.org/
7. National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society provides grants for projects in science, conservation, storytelling, education, and technology.
These grants support innovative and transformative work, helping individuals and organizations address critical global challenges.
Recipients, known as National Geographic Explorers, gain funding, networking opportunities, and access to cutting-edge tools and training.
Link: https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/grants-and-investments/
8. Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) provides grants to support conservation research and projects worldwide.
These grants aim to protect wildlife and wild places, build capacity among conservation leaders, and promote innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
WCS focuses on field research, species conservation, and climate adaptation.
Link: https://www.wcs.org/about-us/grants
9. International Foundation for Science (IFS)
The International Foundation for Science (IFS) provides research grants to early-career scientists in developing countries.
Founded in 1972, IFS supports projects related to sustainable management of biological and water resources.
Their mission is to enhance scientific capacity and promote sustainable development through original research.
Link: https://www.ifs.se/
10. Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF)
The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) empowers civil society to protect biodiversity hotspots—biologically rich yet threatened ecosystems.
By providing grants and technical support, CEPF enables local organizations to implement conservation strategies, fostering sustainable development and long-term conservation leadership.
Link: https://www.cepf.net/
Conclusion
These organizations offer valuable opportunities for African ecologists to advance their research and contribute to conservation efforts across the continent.
For more information and application details, you can visit their respective websites.
