Call for Grant Applications – Free Rivers Fund’s Emergency Grant
Application Deadline:
No Deadline
About Organisation
The Free Rivers Fund (FRF) was established with a mission to support small, grassroots initiatives dedicated to preserving rivers and preventing dam constructions that threaten ecosystems and communities. Since its inception, FRF has focused on empowering local movements and getting them started by providing crucial funding and resources. Acknowledging the time-sensitive nature of certain projects, FRF realized that having a single annual application period was limiting for initiatives that urgently needed support, especially those facing imminent threats. To address this, the organization launched the “Emergency Grant” in 2020, a responsive funding solution designed to enable immediate action against dam proposals. With the Emergency Grant, FRF reaffirms its commitment to flexible and accessible support, allowing individuals and newly-formed groups to apply year-round. This approach helps FRF facilitate rapid response efforts that directly contribute to preserving free-flowing rivers and protecting natural habitats from the harmful impacts of dams.
About the Grant
The Free Rivers Fund’s “Emergency Grant” was created to address the need for urgent support in projects that directly oppose dam proposals. Launched in 2020, this year-round grant is uniquely designed to provide timely assistance to small, emerging initiatives at the front lines of river conservation. Unlike FRF’s regular grants, which operate on an annual cycle, the Emergency Grant is accessible all year to facilitate immediate action. This special fund aims to empower newly formed groups or individuals actively involved in river protection, enabling them to mount direct action campaigns against dam proposals. This funding is exclusively for direct action efforts; it does not support media projects, dam removals, scientific studies outside direct action contexts, or general educational projects. By offering this focused grant, FRF seeks to sustain impactful, on-the-ground initiatives that strive to keep rivers free-flowing and resist developments that could cause ecological and social disruption.
Who can Apply?
The Emergency Grant is open to individuals and newly formed groups or organizations working on direct action projects aimed at preventing proposed dams. Eligibility criteria specify that applicants must be initiating a project dedicated to halting dam construction. This grant is reserved for brand-new projects that demonstrate a clear focus on direct action. Established organizations that have previously received a regular FRF grant should apply within the annual application cycle rather than through the Emergency Grant. Additionally, the fund does not support media campaigns (such as films or exhibitions), educational projects, or general science initiatives unless these are essential components of an ongoing direct action campaign. Furthermore, dam removal projects do not qualify for the Emergency Grant and should seek funding under FRF’s regular grant application process in October. This strict eligibility criterion ensures that resources are directed to those best positioned to respond immediately to emerging threats.
How to Apply?
Applications for the Emergency Grant can be submitted anytime by sending an email to FRF with project details. This process allows for quick, year-round access to funding.
Application Deadline
There is no specific last date; applications are open year-round.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
