Application Deadline:
9 January 2026
About Organisation
The Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP), established in 1985, is a global partnership between Fauna & Flora, BirdLife International, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. Operating under the Cambridge Conservation Initiative, CLP supports emerging conservation leaders worldwide. The programme focuses on strengthening biodiversity protection by funding, mentoring, and training early-career conservationists. Through its long-standing network and collaborative approach, CLP empowers young professionals to design impactful conservation projects, build scientific and leadership skills, and contribute to long-term environmental stewardship. The initiative is committed to developing inclusive, community-centred, and science-driven conservation efforts that protect species, ecosystems, and local livelihoods.
About the Grant
The 2026 Future Conservationist Awards provide early-career conservation teams with project grants of up to $15,000 to implement initiatives addressing urgent biodiversity challenges. Awardees also receive mentorship, specialised training, and ongoing support through CLP’s global Alumni Network. Projects must focus on species listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, Data Deficient, or otherwise requiring urgent conservation action. Themes may include climate adaptation, habitat restoration, environmental policy, Indigenous leadership, or community wellbeing. The awards aim to strengthen local conservation capacity while enabling young teams to build experience, leadership, and long-term impact in their regions.
Who can Apply?
Eligible proposals must focus on globally threatened or data-deficient species and clearly demonstrate a need for timely conservation intervention. Projects must run for 3–12 months and take place in an eligible country. Each project team must include at least three members, all early-career conservationists with no more than five years of professional experience. All team members must be nationals of the country where the project occurs, except one non-national allowed with strong justification. Eligible themes include climate resilience, habitat restoration, community engagement, environmental governance, and social wellbeing. College students and experienced professionals are not eligible.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit their proposals through the official online application portal. Required components include a detailed project plan, evidence of species status or urgent conservation need, team roles, budget, and justification for project location. Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. Early preparation is encouraged to ensure strong proposals and adequate supporting documents. Applications will undergo expert review before final selection.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2026 Future Conservationist Awards is 9 January 2026. All proposals must be submitted before this date; late submissions will not be accepted.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
