Application Deadline:
10 January 2026
About Organisation
The Free Rivers Fund (FRF) was founded by three international kayaking activists — Dan Yates from the UK, Rok Rozman from Slovenia, and Bernie Steidl from Austria — who shared a passion for protecting free-flowing rivers. Each of them was actively involved in campaigns opposing hydropower projects that threatened their local waterways. Realizing how difficult it can be for grassroots movements to secure funding, they created the Free Rivers Fund to provide simple, accessible financial support to river conservation initiatives. Partnering with companies from the paddle sports industry, FRF channels funds toward individuals and organizations fighting to keep rivers wild and free. Since its establishment, the fund has been a lifeline for many small-scale activists and conservationists, enabling them to focus on meaningful action rather than administrative challenges. FRF’s mission is rooted in empowerment — making it easier for passionate changemakers to defend rivers and preserve natural ecosystems for future generations.
About the Grant
The Free Rivers Fund Grant provides financial assistance to activists, organizations, and initiatives working to protect rivers from dams, hydropower developments, and other threats that disrupt their natural flow. The grant supports both established organizations and new initiatives with creative ideas but limited resources. Projects may focus on undamming rivers, preventing new dams, or advocating for the preservation of free-flowing waterways. Eligible uses of funds include legal expenses, campaign logistics, construction or protest materials, awareness and art-based projects, and travel related to conservation activities. The Free Rivers Fund’s goal is to ensure that those actively defending rivers can continue their work effectively without being constrained by lack of funds. The application process is intentionally straightforward, reflecting FRF’s belief that activists should spend their time in the field rather than filling out complex paperwork.
Who can Apply?
The Free Rivers Fund welcomes applications from individuals, informal groups, and organizations worldwide, regardless of their registration status. Applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting or restoring rivers to their free-flowing state. Whether you are a long-established environmental organization or a group of volunteers taking your first steps in river conservation, you are eligible to apply. Projects must focus primarily on the preservation or reinstatement of natural river flow, including actions against new dam constructions or efforts to remove existing barriers. While FRF is flexible in supporting diverse initiatives, some activities are not eligible for funding. These include general clean-up drives, non-targeted research projects, and reforestation or renaturalization activities that do not directly contribute to maintaining a river’s free-flowing state. The Free Rivers Fund encourages applicants who may be unsure about their eligibility to reach out for clarification before applying, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in its grant process.
How to Apply?
Applications open annually on 1 November. Interested applicants must complete and submit the official online application form by 10 January 2026. The process is brief, clear, and non-bureaucratic to ensure accessibility for all.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 10 January 2026.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
