About Organisation
Wild Animal Initiative is dedicated to advancing the science that enhances the welfare of wild animals. While most animals live in natural environments, very little is known about their quality of life or the factors that influence it. The organization works to bridge this gap by fostering research that identifies, measures, and mitigates suffering among wild species. Through its various grant programs, Wild Animal Initiative supports scientists and institutions that explore innovative ways to improve the well-being of wild animals while ensuring ecological balance and scientific integrity. Its mission centers on accelerating progress in the emerging field of wild animal welfare science—encouraging evidence-based, compassionate, and responsible approaches to wildlife research. By empowering researchers, the organization aims to build a strong foundation for understanding how humans can coexist harmoniously with wildlife, grounded in both empathy and empirical study.
About the Grant
The Wild Animal Initiative’s Seed Grants program provides early-stage funding to help researchers develop new ideas or incorporate wild animal welfare questions into existing projects. Designed as an entry point into the field, these grants support innovative, small-scale research that lays the groundwork for future studies. Seed Grants are particularly well-suited for early-career researchers or experienced scientists who are new to wild animal welfare research and wish to expand their focus. Each call for proposals is aligned with the organization’s broader research priorities and encourages cost-effective projects that generate meaningful, welfare-relevant insights. The program funds initiatives that strengthen foundational understanding and methodologies within this growing scientific discipline. Grant funding of up to USD 10,000 is available for projects lasting up to two years. The funds primarily cover direct research expenses such as materials, supplies, or small equipment, with other costs—like stipends or salaries—considered if well-justified in the project’s context.
Who can Apply?
The Seed Grants program is open to researchers worldwide, with a strong focus on supporting early-career scientists, including postdoctoral researchers and PhD students, who are committed to long-term careers in wild animal welfare research. Established investigators seeking to expand their expertise into this field are also encouraged to apply. Projects may be standalone or add a wild animal welfare component to an existing research effort not currently supported by Wild Animal Initiative. Each project must be led by a principal investigator affiliated with a recognized university, research institute, or government agency. If fieldwork is conducted, at least one collaborator must be a resident of each country where the research takes place. Projects managed by NGOs must ensure the organization is legally registered in the country of operation. The grants prioritize funding for direct research costs such as materials, equipment, and supplies, but may also cover justified expenses like stipends or salaries. Applicants are advised to propose realistic budgets focused on project-specific needs.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest by November 14, 2025. Researchers are encouraged to review the thematic areas outlined by Wild Animal Initiative before applying and may seek feedback at any stage of proposal preparation. Selected candidates will be invited to submit full proposals after preliminary review. The organization provides guidance and feedback throughout the process to strengthen proposal quality.
Application Deadline
Expressions of Interest for the Seed Grants program must be submitted by November 14, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
