Call for
Elephant Conservation & Research Funding Support Program

Application Deadline:
1 August 2025
About Organisation
The International Elephant Foundation (IEF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to the global conservation of African and Asian elephants. With a strong emphasis on scientific research, protection, education, and management, IEF supports and operates programs both in the wild and in managed facilities. Over 85% of all funds raised by IEF are directly invested into conservation programs, ensuring maximum impact. The Foundation maintains transparency, with no board member receiving any financial benefit; instead, board members actively contribute to its mission. Driven by the vision of fostering a sustainable future where elephants and humans coexist in harmony, IEF inspires global partnerships and engagement to secure the long-term survival of elephants across the world.
About the Grant
The International Elephant Foundation invites applications for its Elephant Conservation and Research Funding Support Program for 2026. On average, IEF supports 20 to 25 impactful projects annually, with each grant award typically around $15,000. The Foundation seeks to fund projects that have proven or promising effectiveness in elephant conservation, habitat management, community outreach, and research into elephant health and protection. Projects must involve ethical, feasible, and culturally appropriate interventions, actively including relevant stakeholders. Priority is given to initiatives that show measurable success within a year or two and contribute meaningfully to elephant conservation efforts.
Who can Apply?
Organizations and individuals engaged in elephant conservation efforts are eligible to apply. Applicants should propose sustainable, community-based projects with a focus on human-elephant conflict mitigation, habitat conservation, anti-poaching activities, ivory and bushmeat trade reduction, or elephant disease research. Preference is given to applicants with established field operations, a proven track record, and the capacity to deliver measurable impacts within a year or two. The project lead’s CV must reflect relevant experience or strong potential for successful project execution. Activities proven ineffective, international travel, ammunition purchases, and tuition fees will not be funded.
How to Apply?
Applicants must complete and submit the online 2026 IEF Grant Application, preparing all required documents such as project location images, investigator CVs, permits, and endorsements. It is recommended to first draft responses using the provided Word file.
Application Deadline
Submit the complete application no later than Friday, August 1, 2025, by 11:59 PM PST.
Last Date To Apply
The final date for submission is August 1, 2025.
Grant Amount
The average grant amount awarded by IEF is approximately $15,000 per year.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.