Securing funding is one of the biggest challenges faced by conservation and forest restoration initiatives. Whether you’re a grassroots organization, a research team, or a community-driven project, financial support is essential to turn your vision into reality. To help you navigate the funding landscape, we’ve compiled a list of current opportunities—from small seed grants to large-scale awards—that can support your work in protecting ecosystems and promoting sustainable land management.
Global and Regional Funding Resources
1. UNFF Clearing House on Forest Financing
The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) hosts a comprehensive database of financing opportunities, best practices, and learning materials related to sustainable forest management. This platform is an excellent starting point for organizations seeking funding or technical guidance.
Explore funding options here
2. The Pollination Project
This organization offers two key funding streams:
Daily Grant Program: Provides small grants of up to $500 to help launch or expand grassroots initiatives.
Farmed Animal Protection Grants: Supports projects that reduce harm to animals in agricultural systems.
Learn more and apply
3. BBVA Foundation Biodiversity Conservation Awards
Recognizing outstanding contributions to biodiversity conservation, these awards are open to projects worldwide. The application deadline is 1 April 2025, so now is the time to prepare your submission.
English details | En español
4. Franklinia Foundation – Tree Conservation in Latin America and the Caribbean
Focused on preserving threatened tree species, this grant supports conservation efforts in Latin America and the Caribbean. The deadline for applications is 6 April 2025.
Find out more
5. Nature Awards – Inspiring Women in Science
This initiative highlights the achievements of women in science, including those working in conservation and environmental research. Applications close on 9 April 2025.
Submission guidelines
6. Resilience Innovation through Scaling Entrepreneurship (RISE) Urban Challenge
Aimed at low- and middle-income countries, this challenge funds innovative solutions for urban resilience. An informational webinar will be held on 27 March 2025, and the application deadline is 11 April 2025.
Further details
7. UNESCO-Japan Prize on Education for Sustainable Development
This prize rewards projects that integrate sustainability into education. The deadline for submissions is 18 April 2025.
Application information
8. UNESCO-Greece Melina Mercouri Prize for Cultural Landscapes
This award recognizes efforts to protect and manage cultural landscapes, which often intersect with conservation goals. Applications must be submitted by 30 April 2025.
Prize details
9. UNICEF Call for Innovative WASH Solutions
UNICEF is seeking scalable innovations in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) that can improve resilience in vulnerable communities. The deadline is 30 April 2025.
Apply here
10. National Geographic: Spatial Thinking for Place-Based Solutions
This grant supports projects that use geospatial analysis to address environmental and social challenges. An informational webinar will take place on 27 March 2025, and applications are due by 5 May 2025.
Grant details
11. SST Foundation – Sustainable Tourism and Community Development
With multiple deadlines throughout the year (31 May, 15 August, and 24 October 2025), this foundation funds projects that promote sustainable tourism while enhancing local livelihoods.
More information
How to strengthen your funding application
To maximize your chances of success, consider the following:
- Align your proposal with the funder’s priorities – Carefully review their mission and past funded projects.
- Demonstrate measurable impact – Clearly outline how your project will achieve tangible results.
- Engage local communities – Many funders prioritize initiatives with strong community involvement.
- Submit early – Avoid last-minute technical issues by preparing in advance.
Final Thoughts
Funding opportunities for conservation and forest restoration are available, but they require proactive research and well-prepared applications. By leveraging these resources, your project can gain the financial support needed to make a lasting impact.
If you found this list helpful, share it with fellow conservationists and organizations working toward a sustainable future.
Please also consider listing your funding request via the explorer.land funding opportunities listing.
