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