The UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme offers the Young Scientists Awards to support early-career researchers conducting interdisciplinary studies on ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable development. The program prioritizes research carried out in biosphere reserves and projects that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Eligible applicants must be 35 years or younger and must have their applications endorsed by their National MAB Committee, which can nominate up to two candidates per year. Individual research grants are awarded up to a maximum of US$5,000 to cover project-related costs for a two-year period. The deadline for applications is 07 May 2026. Young Scientist Awards
conservation
UNESCO — Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation
UNESCO invites applications for a nine-month fellowship at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland. This program provides an archaeological internship focused on multidisciplinary methods and conservation practices for seven selected professionals. Eligible candidates must be no more than 40 years old, hold a Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts degree in archaeology or conservation, and be a national of one of the invited Member States across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The fellowship includes international travel costs, health insurance, and a monthly allowance of PLN 1,800 for Bachelor’s degree holders or PLN 2,200 for Master’s degree holders. Additionally, participants receive a one-time pocket allowance of US$120. The deadline for National Commissions to submit nominations to UNESCO is 15 May 2026. Link
Mangrove Action Project — Mangrove Photography Awards 2026
The Mangrove Action Project invites entries for the 12th annual Mangrove Photography Awards, a competition dedicated to spark conservation through visual storytelling. The contest is open to photographers of all levels and ages globally, featuring categories such as Wildlife, Underwater, Landscape, People, and Conservation Stories. A total of US$7 thousand in prize money is available, including US$1,000 for the overall winner and US$500 for each of the eleven category winners. Participation is free, and photographers can submit up to 12 images. The deadline for submissions is 01 June 2026. Mangrove Photography Awards
Association of Commonwealth Universities — Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) supports the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships for citizens of developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarships fund cultural and academic exchanges and are awarded across many subjects, including climate resilience and life sciences. Eligibility extends to citizens of (or with refugee status in) a Commonwealth country other than the country hosting the award. Scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses (stipend) for the duration of the award, return economy flight, one-off arrival allowance, and research support grant (on request). The application deadline is 03 June 2026. Find the available scholarships
Conservation Action Research Network — Aspire Grant Program 2026
The Aspire Grant Program provides competitive research grants of up to US$5 thousand for African graduate students and early-career professionals working in the areas of biodiversity, conservation, wildlife, and ecosystem health in the Congo Basin. Applicants should be 35 years of age or younger and reside in one of the following countries: Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, or Uganda. The application deadline (English, French, Spanish) is 10 June 2026. About the Aspire Grant Program
International Elephant Foundation — Elephant Conservation and Research 2026
The International Elephant Foundation makes grants for the conservation and research of elephants. Eligibility extends to organizations and individuals internationally — including students, scientists, and institutions. The Foundation supports in situ or ex-situ conservation of African or Asian elephants or their habitats. Most awards are about US$15 thousand for one year. The application deadline for short pre-proposals is 07 August 2026. Click here
Zoologische Gesellschaft für Arten- und Populationsschutz — Conservation of Globally Threatened or Data Deficient Species
The primary goal of the Zoological Society for the Conservation of Species and Populations (ZGAP) is the conservation of unknown, but highly endangered species and their natural habitats. ZGAP funds conservation projects for globally threatened or data-deficient species, subspecies, and populations. Support is often given to young scientists from the developing world who are eager to implement conservation projects in their home countries. The maximum funding amount per project is €5 thousand. Please note that projects in the wealthier industrial countries (Western Europe, North America, Australia, and Japan) are only supported in exceptional cases. There is no application deadline. Find the guidelines for application here
World Land Trust — Land Purchase for Conservation
The Trust provides funding for the initial acquisition of land that has conservation importance. It also funds additional activities related to protection, biodiversity monitoring, education, outreach, habitat restoration, and species reintroduction. The Trust works with legally registered and experienced conservation NGOs based in developing countries. Qualified conservation organizations that seek to become partners prepare a project proposal that follows the Trust’s criteria. There is no calendar deadline. About Buy an Acre
Rufford Foundation — Grants for Nature Conservation
The Rufford Foundation makes grants for nature conservation undertaken by small and medium-sized organizations for projects in the developing world. The Foundation prefers projects that are pragmatic, and that have a significant human element. There are no restrictions by nationality or country of residence. Grant applications are made in sequential stages: first grant, second grant, booster grants, and completion grant. Grants start at £6 thousand and increase to £15 thousand for projects that complete each stage. Applications can be submitted at any time. Instructions for Applicants
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives — Community Projects in Moldova
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) invites proposals that meet the needs of local communities in the Republic of Moldova. Eligible recipients include local non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and municipal or national government agencies. Projects must align with thematic priorities such as democratic governance, peace and security, or inclusive economic growth, with a cross-cutting focus on gender equality. While the maximum allocation is CAN$100 thousand, typical contributions range between CAN$30 thousand and CAN$60 thousand. The deadline for applications is 17 April 2026. CFLI Moldova