Call for
Global Forest Watch Small Grants Fund
Application Deadline:
4 May 2025
About Organisation
Global Forest Watch (GFW) is a dynamic and accessible forest monitoring platform that offers real-time, data-driven insights to help ensure the sustainable management and conservation of global forests. Launched in 2014, GFW is a trusted resource used by over 7 million users across the world, including civil society organizations, journalists, communities, policymakers, and companies. By leveraging satellite technology and open data, GFW enables users to track deforestation patterns, understand forest change, and respond promptly to threats. Its tools empower stakeholders to make informed decisions by visualizing when, where, and why forest loss occurs. Operated by the World Resources Institute (WRI), GFW bridges the gap between data and actionable forest protection strategies, contributing significantly to environmental advocacy and forest governance. The platform supports a global movement towards forest conservation through transparency, accountability, and community-driven action. Whether it’s Indigenous communities monitoring ancestral lands, governments enforcing conservation laws, or journalists reporting on forest loss, GFW provides the tools and information necessary to protect vital forest ecosystems. Through continuous innovation and partnerships, Global Forest Watch continues to foster sustainable forest stewardship and environmental resilience across diverse landscapes worldwide.
About the Grant
The Global Forest Watch Small Grants Fund (SGF) is designed to support civil society organizations in their efforts to combat illegal and unplanned deforestation while promoting sustainable forest management. The 2025 grant cycle aims to help these organizations incorporate GFW’s tools into their monitoring strategies, translating data into tangible actions. Projects under this fund may focus on a variety of approaches including advocacy for land rights, forest monitoring and enforcement, impactful storytelling through journalism, stakeholder engagement, and influencing land use policies. For example, initiatives may involve training Indigenous communities to use GFW’s alert systems, submitting legal evidence of illegal deforestation, or producing media content to raise awareness. Grants will support practical, locally relevant solutions that use GFW data to protect forests, advocate for land tenure, and influence sustainable practices. In addition to financial aid, grantees receive technical assistance from WRI advisors and join a global network of like-minded organizations. Projects are expected to run from August 15, 2025, to August 14, 2026. Through this support, GFW aims to strengthen on-the-ground capacities and create a ripple effect in forest conservation efforts. The Small Grants Fund is not just a funding opportunity, but a gateway to long-term engagement and capacity building.
Who can Apply?
The Small Grants Fund is open to legally registered non-profit and non-governmental organizations actively working in the field of forest conservation, land rights, or environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must have an annual organizational budget exceeding $50,000 USD and be equipped with a computerized financial tracking system, preferably professional accounting software. Additionally, applicants must be able to undergo and pass a medium to low-risk rating in WRI’s organizational assessment, which evaluates governance, financial, and compliance structures. Finalists will be required to provide their most recent annual audit or submit a full financial package comprising a balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement from the past two years. To ensure effective communication, at least one designated team member should possess professional working proficiency in English, both written and spoken, as the organizational assessment will be conducted in English. Applications, however, are accepted in English, French, or Spanish. Organizations that are community-based, Indigenous-led, or focused on land defense strategies are especially encouraged to apply. The fund is best suited for organizations that can transform data into impactful, community-centered forest monitoring and protection efforts using GFW tools and resources.
How to Apply?
Interested organizations can submit their application for the Global Forest Watch Small Grants Fund through the designated online portal. Applications must include a detailed project proposal outlining objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and budget. Supporting documents related to financial eligibility must also be uploaded. Applications are reviewed for strategic alignment, impact potential, and organizational capacity. All entries must be submitted in either English, French, or Spanish before the specified deadline.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on May 9th, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to apply for the Global Forest Watch Small Grants Fund 2025 cycle is May 9, 2025. Applications must be completed and submitted online before the deadline.
Grant Amount
Selected organizations will receive financial support ranging between $10,000 and $40,000 USD. On average, 8 to 15 projects are selected annually, each receiving technical guidance and network access.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
