Ocean Exploration & Discovery Grant 2025

The National Geographic Society, established in 1888, has for over 130 years supported scientific discovery, education, and exploration across the globe. Founded by 33 visionaries—scholars, explorers, and scientists—the Society was created to advance “the increase and diffusion of geographical knowledge.” Since then, it has evolved into one of the world’s leading organizations committed to exploration, conservation, research, and storytelling to protect and celebrate our planet.

National Geographic has empowered generations of explorers, scientists, educators, and innovators by funding groundbreaking projects and providing platforms to share knowledge globally. Its mission is to inspire people to care about the planet by deepening their understanding of Earth’s systems and biodiversity.

The Society funds thousands of individuals each year, supporting work in ocean sciences, wildlife conservation, archaeology, climate research, and indigenous storytelling. By fostering collaboration between experts across regions and disciplines, the organization helps drive solutions for some of the most urgent challenges facing the Earth today.

With a strong focus on mentorship, cutting-edge technology, and community-driven impact, the Society continues to champion bold ideas and inspire action, ensuring its historic legacy of exploration thrives in the 21st century and beyond.

The Ocean Exploration & Discovery Grant 2025, offered by the National Geographic Society in partnership with the Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI), supports early career scientists to lead innovative projects that advance ocean exploration and protection. The grant is part of a larger mission to strengthen leadership in ocean sciences while equipping young researchers with access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure.

Grantees will receive up to USD 20,000 to cover travel and project-related costs, along with berth space aboard SOI’s cutting-edge Falkor (too) research vessel. This ship, operating along the east coast of South America during its 2026 season, is equipped with advanced laboratories, underwater robotics and cameras, and high-performance computing systems, enabling pioneering studies in marine sciences.

The program emphasizes projects that align with Falkor (too)’s scheduled expeditions, prioritizing research in areas such as biogeochemistry, mid-water biodiversity, mesophotic ecosystems, marine technology, seamount exploration, and physical oceanography.

In addition to funding, awardees will join the National Geographic Explorer Community, gaining mentorship, training, and international networking opportunities. This initiative not only fosters ocean research but also builds the next generation of marine science leaders, empowering them to make lasting contributions to global knowledge and ocean conservation.