The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation supports early-stage, high-impact social enterprises and seeks projects and innovations that dramatically improve the lives of people and the world. Eligibility extends to non-profit, for-profit, and hybrid organizations in the early stages of their development that have scaling potential. The DRK investments are distributed twice a year over a three-year term, totaling $300 thousand. The Foundation has a rolling online application process throughout the year; there is no deadline. Click here
forests
European Space Agency — Biomass Innovation
The European Space Agency (ESA) invites proposals from organizations in ESA Member States to exploit the unique capabilities of the BIOMASS mission for novel Earth-system, forest, and land-surface science applications. The exact funding ceiling per project is not publicly detailed in the summary announcement. The application deadline is 15 December 2025. Find the call here
Australian Government — Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australian government contributes to the education of talented individuals in developing countries through scholarship programs. Subject areas for study correspond to priorities of Australia’s aid programs by regions and countries — and include agriculture, energy, natural resources, and environment. Australian organizations can request funding of up to A$34,500 per Fellow. The call lists countries that are eligible for Australia Awards Scholarships, and country-specific eligibility criteria. Applications will close on 16 January 2026. Australia Awards Scholarships
Right Livelihood Award — Annual Nominations 2026
The Right Livelihood Awards are annually made to individuals and organizations offering practical and exemplary answers to the most urgent challenges facing us today. The Award is sometimes referred to as the “Alternative Nobel Prize.” Past laureates include several whose work in issues of environment and natural resources advances social justice and grassroots development in the developing world. Normally, the Foundation makes three cash awards and one honorary award each year. Nominations are invited from anyone worldwide (excluding self-nominations, close relatives, and Foundation staff and jury). The deadline for nominations is 16 January 2026. Nominate
Harvard University — Award for Student Research on Asian Tropical Forest Biology
The Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University sponsors the Ashton Award for Student Research to support graduate and advanced undergraduate students working on Asian tropical forest biology. Applications are accepted from advanced undergraduates and graduate students worldwide. Awards are up to US$4 thousand to support research expenses. The application deadline is 01 February 2026. About the Ashton Award
African Union Development Agency — Land Accelerator Africa
The Land Accelerator Africa initiative invites land-restoration entrepreneurs and businesses operating in African countries to apply for a scalable accelerator program aimed at restoring degraded landscapes. Selected participants will join training modules, receive innovation grants of up to USD$5,000, and gain access to mentorship, networking and investment readiness support. Applications are due by 30 October 2025. AFR100 Land Accelerator Africa
Smithsonian.com — Annual Photo Contest 2025
Smithsonian.com accepts submissions from photographers worldwide in the theme of “Natural World,” among other categories. The Grand Prize is US$2,500 and the winners in each category will receive US$500 each. The deadline for submissions is 01 December 2025. Submit your photos
Weeden Foundation — Protecting Biodiversity in Chile and Russia
The Weeden Foundation makes grants for biodiversity conservation in forest ecosystems, riparian corridors, and riverine and aquatic environments of ecological importance. Weeden’s international priorities are the Patagonia region of Chile, and the Altai Republic of Russia. The average grant size is between US$15 and US$20 thousand. The Foundation requests letters of inquiry (LOI) at least one month before proposal deadlines. The next deadline for applications (English, Spanish) is 09 January 2026. Find details
TED-Ed — Earth School
Earth School consists of 30 days of nature-focused content for learners of all ages. Each Quest includes videos and a quiz, combined with a series of engaging learning resources curated by environmental experts. Teachers and parents are invited to use these lessons and activities to keep their students and kids engaged and connected to the outside world. Lessons are free and accessible anytime. Link to Earth School
International Science Partnerships Fund — Amazon Workshop Grants
The International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) invites joint proposals from UK and Brazilian researchers to support collaborative development-focused research in the Brazilian Amazon. Workshops must bring together early-career researchers to address development, biodiversity, climate, and land-use issues in the Legal Amazon, and host up to 40 participants. Each workshop may receive up to £55 thousand to cover travel, subsistence, event costs, and logistics. Applications are due by 21 October 2025. Amazon Workshop Grants