Whitley Awards 2027: Apply for £50,000 in Conservation Funding for Grassroots Conservation Projects Worldwide
Applications are now open for the 2027 Whitley Awards, offering £50,000 in funding and international recognition to mid-career conservation leaders implementing grassroots, science-based biodiversity projects.
Overview
The Whitley Awards are prestigious international conservation grants designed to support mid-career conservation leaders who are already spearheading vital, practical projects. The programme targets initiatives that combine grassroots community engagement with a solid scientific foundation, aiming to scale proven solutions rather than fund theoretical research or early-stage planning.
Successful candidates receive £50,000 in project funding for one year. Beyond the financial grant, award winners gain access to international recognition, communications support, peer learning, specialized training, collaboration opportunities, and future eligibility for Continuation Funding and the Whitley Gold Award.
Eligibility
- Must be dynamic, mid-career conservation leaders leading established, proven projects.
- Must be nationals of the country where the conservation work takes place.
- Projects must be community-based at the grassroots level and founded on science.
- Applicants do not require an invitation or nomination to apply.
- Must nominate three referees who can submit their references before the application deadline.
How to Apply
Candidates must complete their submissions through the official online application portal. The application process includes the following key steps:
- Review the official eligibility criteria on the Whitley Fund for Nature website.
- Register for a WFN account on the online application portal to access application materials.
- Complete the online application form, ensuring progress is saved regularly.
- Download and complete the current year's Microsoft Word template for the logical framework and timeline, then upload it.
- Download, complete, and upload the Microsoft Excel project budget template.
- Nominate three referees and ensure they submit their references prior to the deadline.
Deadline
The application deadline is 23:59 GMT on Friday, 30 October 2026. Winners will be announced during the annual Whitley Awards Ceremony in London in Spring 2027.