Grant application timelines

The new year brings not only a new look and feel website, but also a subtle shift in our approach. For the past 15 years, we’ve been open to receiving grant applications 365 days a year. Previously, our internal vetting process was swiftly followed by circulating applications to the Advisory Board for review and ultimate grant allocation three times a year.

Over time, the number of applications has grown, and last year we hit a record high. While it was a great statistic, it turned into an administrative challenge. Fortunately, we still managed to support 8.5% of the applications received.

This influx has prompted us to revise our application timelines to ensure we have ample time to assess, review, and fund the most needed and deserving projects.

As of 2026, our grant application timelines will work as follows:

April grant cycle (currently open) will close 31 January 2026 with a decision expected end April 2026
September grant cycle opens 01 May 2026 till 31 May 2026 with a decision expected end September 2026
December grant cycle opens 15 September 2026 till 15 October 2026 with a decision expected end December 2026

Our consideration will still be directed at those species facing a high threat of extinction (with an emphasis on Endangered and Critically Endangered species), as well as those which are listed as Data Deficient or unlisted but are suspected as highly threatened. This small change will allow us the time needed to analyse each application, identify duplications, and spot which AI-written submissions are noteworthy.

Our mission remains the conservation of species, and we can’t do this alone. Please help us by sharing your applications in a timely manner and avoid missing the window of opportunity.