About Organisation
Pure Ocean is a global initiative dedicated to supporting innovative research projects that address pressing challenges in marine conservation. The program aligns its efforts with the United Nations’ Ocean Decade Challenges, aiming to safeguard marine ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and enhance climate resilience. Pure Ocean collaborates with research institutes, universities, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote interdisciplinary and community-driven solutions. By funding applied research that tackles real-world problems, the organization seeks to empower scientists and conservationists working at the forefront of ocean protection. Special attention is given to projects that demonstrate scientific rigor, innovation, and local engagement, helping to create sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and coastal communities. The initiative prioritizes projects that explore alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, combat illegal fishing, study deep-sea ecosystems, and support restoration efforts on the French coast and beyond. Through its structured evaluation process, Pure Ocean encourages transparency, stakeholder involvement, and dissemination of findings. The program’s long-term vision is to foster knowledge-sharing and collaborative networks that enhance global efforts toward healthier oceans, improved understanding of marine systems, and effective responses to climate change and pollution.
About the Grant
The Pure Ocean Challenge provides funding for applied research projects that contribute to the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems worldwide. The grant focuses on four major themes aligned with global priorities: understanding and reducing marine pollution, protecting biodiversity, building resilience against climate change, and improving scientific understanding of the ocean system. The program encourages projects that offer innovative solutions, such as alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, satellite monitoring to prevent illegal fishing, deep-sea exploration, and local ecosystem restoration initiatives. Selected projects are expected to collaborate with stakeholders, integrate interdisciplinary approaches, and engage with local communities. The challenge emphasizes scientific excellence, feasibility, and the potential for measurable environmental impact. Funding is available for projects spanning one or two years, depending on the proposal and evaluation by the Scientific Committee. Applicants are encouraged to present co-funding options and contingency plans to ensure project continuity. The grant prioritizes research initiatives that align with global ocean conservation efforts while also addressing local challenges. Pure Ocean’s goal is to support actionable, impactful projects that bridge science and community action, empowering early-career researchers and fostering global collaboration.
Who can Apply?
The Pure Ocean Challenge is open to non-profit organizations, including research institutes, universities, and NGOs working on marine conservation and scientific research. Applicants from any region of the world are eligible to participate, provided they meet the criteria outlined in the application process. While there is no age restriction, early-career researchers are particularly encouraged to apply and present fresh, innovative approaches to solving ocean-related challenges. Collaboration is welcomed, and organizations are allowed to work alongside private sector partners such as companies and startups to enhance project outcomes. However, the lead applicant must belong to a non-profit entity. Applications must also demonstrate how the project aligns with one or more of the four key themes, with a clear explanation of methods, objectives, and potential impact. It is required that applicants include information about co-funding arrangements and a minimum operational budget in case the grant does not fully cover all expenses. Projects that engage local populations and stakeholders, especially in regionally focused research, are viewed favorably. Transparency, feasibility, and alignment with ocean conservation goals are critical for eligibility.
How to Apply?
Applicants must fill out an online application form with details about the project, lead organization, graphical summary, and keywords. The first phase selects 40 candidates from eligible entries for Phase 2, where they submit a full proposal outlining context, methods, outcomes, and objectives. All required information should be provided, including co-funding plans and budget estimates, to be considered for evaluation by the Scientific Committee.
Application Deadline
Applications are open until October 1, 2025. Entries submitted before this date will be reviewed in two selection phases, with shortlisted projects advancing for detailed evaluation.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, visit grant website here
