Rufford Foundation Small Grant – Apply Now

The Rufford Foundation Small Grants supports small-scale conservation projects led by individuals, researchers, and local organisations working in developing countries. The grant program provides funding of up to £18,000 per project to support nature conservation projects in field research and community engagement. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with no fixed deadline.

About The Rufford Foundation Small Grants

The Small Grants Programme is sponsored by the Rufford Foundation, a UK-based charitable foundation that supports nature conservation initiatives worldwide. The grant provides funding between £7,000 and £18,000 to researchers and local organisations that focus on areas such as biodiversity loss, strengthening local capacity, and contributing to long-term environmental sustainability. Funding is made based on the project initiative and duration.

Funding Size

• Typical grant amount: £7,000 to £18,000
• Maximum award: £18,000
• Project duration supported: 12 months

Read More: Zoological Association of America Conservation Grants – Apply Now 

Who Can Apply for the Rufford Foundation Small Grants

• • Eligible organisation types:
  • Individuals (e.g. conservationists, researchers, students)
  • Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
  • Community-based organisations

• Registration requirements:

• • Applicants must be current MSc or PhD students or recent graduates.
  • Projects must focus on nature conservation.
  • The projects must focus on threatened species. 
  • The grant must be for small projects.

• Geographic eligibility: Developing countries around the world.

• Sector or thematic focus:

• Biodiversity conservation
• Species and habitat protection
  Conservation research and fieldwork
• Community-based conservation initiatives

Application Process

• Create an account on the official grant website and complete the application form.
• Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage of funding.

Read More: MIDORI Prize for Biodiversity – Apply Now

Required Materials

• Three references
• Budget
• Project proposal
• Evidence of prior work or experience in conservation

Key Dates

• Application deadline: Not specified.
• Notification timeline: Not specified

 There is no deadline for applications as submissions are received at any time of the year. Unsuccessful applicants can apply again after 12 months. 

Selection Notes

• • Highly competitive due to global scope and limited funding 
  • Priority focus areas: Practical conservation impact, field-based work, local involvement, and species endangerment. 

• Exclusions:

• Undergraduates 
• Projects that do not focus on nature conservation.

Official Source of the Rufford Foundation Small Grants

• Official Application Page: https://apply.ruffordsmallgrants.org/