Organisation Name:
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund
Application Deadline:
31 Mar 2026
About Organisation
Established in 2009 by the President of the United Arab Emirates, the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund is a global grant-making initiative dedicated exclusively to species conservation. What began as a small grants programme has grown into a leading supporter of conservation action worldwide. The Fund works to protect threatened plant, animal, and fungi species by supporting science-based, field-driven projects. Its vision is a world where biodiversity flourishes and ecosystems remain resilient. By fostering leadership, collaboration, and practical conservation solutions, the Fund plays a vital role in safeguarding endangered species and strengthening global conservation efforts.
About the Grant
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund Grant supports targeted, high-impact projects focused on conserving individual species facing extinction. The grant prioritises initiatives addressing Endangered, Critically Endangered, Data Deficient, or highly threatened species, based primarily on IUCN Red List assessments or credible alternative evidence. Funding mainly supports in situ conservation activities such as field surveys, recovery actions, training, and habitat protection, while limited support is also available for ex situ conservation in special cases. Projects typically focus on a single species, though grouped species proposals may be considered where scientifically justified.
Who can Apply?
Applications are open globally to conservationists, researchers, NGOs, academic institutions, and practitioners working on species conservation. Projects must focus directly on the protection of a threatened plant, animal, or fungi species. Priority is given to initiatives addressing species at high risk of extinction, particularly those classified as Endangered or Critically Endangered. Applicants must demonstrate clear conservation outcomes, sound methodology, and relevance to the species’ survival. Projects not focused on species conservation or not addressing threatened species are generally considered ineligible for funding support.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit a detailed project proposal outlining conservation objectives, target species, methodology, budget, and expected outcomes before the deadline. Applications are reviewed by experts and advisory boards, and some proposals may undergo additional external review. Applicants seeking continuation funding must have completed and reported on any previous grants from the Fund before submitting a new application.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 31 March 2026. Proposals received by this deadline will be considered for the current funding cycle and reviewed accordingly.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
