Application Deadline:
1 December 2026
About Organisation
The National Geographic Society is an international nonprofit organisation that supports explorers, researchers, educators and storytellers working to illuminate and protect the world. Its grant programme funds projects across science, conservation, storytelling, education and technology. Rather than operating one general open-call grant, the Society now uses specific Requests for Proposals with individual themes, eligibility requirements, funding levels and deadlines. The organisation provides financial support as well as opportunities for networking, learning, recognition and storytelling through its global Explorer community. Its current grant opportunities include projects focused on ocean exploration, scientific research and storytelling about human histories and cultures, providing different entry points for applicants with relevant experience and project ideas.
About the Grant
The Human Thread is a National Geographic Society funding opportunity supported by Lilly Endowment Inc. It seeks storytelling projects that explore the origins and contemporary expressions of global cultures and religions within the Society’s Human Histories and Cultures focus area. Two funding levels are available. Level I offers up to US$20,000 for applicants new to National Geographic Society funding, with projects lasting one year. Level II offers up to US$100,000 for more established applicants, with projects lasting up to two years. The opportunity is intended for meaningful storytelling projects that document and illuminate human experiences, cultures and histories through strong creative and research-based approaches.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and should have the skills and experience required to lead the proposed storytelling project. Applications must be submitted in English through the National Geographic Society’s funding system. Applicants should demonstrate a strong understanding of, and connection to, the communities or subjects represented in their work. A portfolio of previous media or storytelling work is required. Priority may be given to applicants with lived experience or established relationships with the communities they document. The project leader must be the person responsible for carrying out the project and writing the application. Applicants should carefully follow the specific requirements of The Human Thread RFP.
How to Apply?
Applications open through the National Geographic Society Funding Portal on 1 October 2026. Applicants should review The Human Thread RFP, create or access their Funding Portal account and complete the project application. The submission should include the required project information, budget and collaborator details, together with evidence of relevant storytelling experience. Applicants must submit to the specific Human Thread opportunity rather than making a general National Geographic grant application.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 1 December 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
