The Free Rivers Fund (FRF) supports efforts to protect free-flowing rivers. In collaboration with the paddle sports community, we provide grants to activist and conservation groups dedicated to protecting rivers from dams and development.

FRF focuses on funding initiatives that need urgent support. Whether your organization has been active for years or you're just starting with a lot of ideas but no results yet, we welcome your application! If you're working to preserve free-flowing rivers, we encourage you to apply!

Since funding is limited, the strictness of requirements depends on the number of applications. If your project doesn’t meet all the criteria, or if you’re unsure of your eligibility, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Funding Process

Due to our legal structure, the Free Rivers Fund cannot give money directly to grantees. Instead, we pay for project-related expenses. You can place orders for the goods and services you need with invoices made in our name, and we will pay for them directly. Alternatively, you can submit receipts for reimbursement. More detailed information on how funding works can be found in our info sheet for applicants and grantees.

Application Procedure

Applications open each year in October, with selected initiatives announced in January. To apply, complete the online form and submit it by January 10th, 2025. We aim to make the application process as simple as possible, so the form is short. If we need further information, we will contact you.

What We Expect From You

Our goal is to help you get your work done and protect your river. To keep our donors informed about where their money is going, we ask for just one update during the grant period. Please provide a brief summary (no more than four sentences) about your actions, your river, and your project's progress, along with one good photo. We’ll share this on our social media channels. That’s all we ask!

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is January 10th 2025.