Search this site

Rufford Small Grants Foundation


Focus of This Profile: Grants to support small programs and pilot projects for nature and biodiversity conservation in the developing world.

Principal Office: UK


The Rufford Small Grants Foundation funds small programs and pilot projects for nature and biodiversity conservation in developing countries.

The Foundation makes grants for conservation of wildlife habitats and ecosystems. It also funds some projects at the level of individual species. Many grants include significant components for environmental education and community participation.

Grant Programs for Agriculture, Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources

Grants for small conservation programs and pilot projects. The Rufford Small Grants Foundation supports projects in the following broad areas:
  • Conservation of wildlife habitats and ecosystems;
  • Species-level conservation (animals, plants, insects, etc.);
  • Environmental education and community-level conservation.
The Foundation prefers projects that are pragmatic, that will make a substantial and long-lasting impact, and that have a significant human element. In general, the Foundation prefers to support projects at the ecosystem level rather than species work.

Rufford’s small grants are made to individuals and small groups for field projects that have clear conservation objectives in developing countries. There are no restrictions by nationality or country of residence. Note: The majority of recent grant recipients are from the developing countries where the projects are implemented.

About the program


Grant applications are made in sequential stages: first grant, second grant, booster grant, continuation grant, and completion grant:
  • Small Grants are up to £6 thousand each for a first grant and a second grant.
  • Booster Grants are up to £12 thousand (following the first and second grants).
  • Continuation Grants and Completion Grants are up to £25 thousand in each category, available to grant recipients who meet certain requirements (explained on Rufford’s website).
APPLICATION: Applicants establish a user account and submit applications online.

An application requires a project description, proposed budget, and three references. The Foundation will not process applications that do not include the supporting references.

Applications can be submitted at any time; there is no calendar deadline.

About how to apply


Geographical Distribution of Grant Activities in Developing Countries

Worldwide

Comments

The Foundation makes over 200 grants annually.

As a guide to grant seekers, the Foundation’s funded projects are listed by year and by world region. The projects are also shown in a world map. Project profiles and updates usually include extensive information, e.g., reports and contact details.

The Foundation posts frequently asked questions (FAQ).

The Foundation provides the names and email addresses of its Grants Director and Grants Administrator. Contact the Foundation has a link for queries about the application process.

The Foundation maintains a Facebook Page.

Note: The Terra Viva Grants Directory provides a separate profile of the Rufford Foundation (previously named the Rufford Maurice Laing Foundation). Prior to 2007, all grants – including small ones -- were administered by the Rufford Maurice Laing Foundation.


Last Profile Review

February 2013


© Copyright protected. All rights reserved.


Return to Biodiversity, Conservation, Wildlife (subject area)

Return to Foundations, Corporations, and Civil Society (organizational category)