Worth £50,000 in project funding : Applications are now open for the 2026 Whitley Awards
The Whitley Awards are intended for energetic and experienced conservation leaders who are actively driving wildlife protection efforts in countries across the Global South.
Those selected are typically citizens of the nation where their project operates and are looking to expand initiatives that have already demonstrated success. Their work is deeply rooted in local communities and stands to gain from increased financial backing, broader visibility, and global recognition.
What the WFN Does Not Fund
Projects based in countries classified as High-Income Economies are ineligible. However, those working in recently reclassified nations may still inquire about exceptions.
The awards are not intended for expatriates, even if they are leading valuable conservation work. The focus remains on elevating local leadership.
WFN does not support purely academic endeavors or research aimed solely at publication. Similarly, Master’s or PhD students conducting fieldwork will not receive funding unless the project benefits the broader conservation effort.
Funding will not be allocated to expeditions, conference travel, or early-stage ideas without proven outcomes. Leaders who cannot be present on the ground due to study or other obligations are also ineligible.
Individuals operating alone, without mentoring or team-building efforts, are not considered a fit. Additionally, WFN does not accept group applications or third-party nominations.
Proposals centered exclusively on rural development, construction, or infrastructure without clear conservation outcomes are not prioritized. Likewise, land acquisition and facilities building are excluded.
Projects dealing with animal welfare, the rehabilitation of captive animals, or captive breeding are generally outside the scope—unless there's clear evidence that the root causes of species decline have been resolved in the wild first.
Government officials are not usually eligible, although in some contexts, conservationists may have ties to public institutions for operational reasons. Such cases may be discussed with WFN directly.
Finally, while WFN aims to fund projects in all qualifying countries, there are times when support may be restricted in certain regions. Applicants unsure of their country's status should reach out to WFN for the most current information.
Don't miss out on the application deadline which is at midnight GMT on 31 October 2025.
Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity.
Additional Information
- Preference is given to individuals who are either native to the country where the work is being conducted or have lived there long enough to be considered nationals. In exceptional cases, those with over 15 years of residency and a proven dedication to local conservation efforts may be considered.
- WFN seeks applicants who are part of, or closely connected with, the communities in which they operate. Ideal candidates lead or work for registered NGOs based in the Global South. Staff members from international NGOs headquartered in the Global North are unlikely to be selected unless their team is fully local and lacks access to external funding sources. Branches of international NGOs may be considered if they are locally run and demonstrate financial need.
- Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English without the help of interpreters. While complete fluency is not required, participants must be able to engage fully in the activities surrounding the Whitley Awards, which include interviews, networking, media engagement, and professional development sessions in the UK.
- Applications must come from individuals who have a strong team behind them. Submissions from people working alone, joint applications, or those nominating someone else are not accepted.
- Projects should be rooted in scientific understanding—whether through the leader’s own expertise, their team, or collaborators—and must engage local people and stakeholders. Initiatives operating at the ecosystem or landscape level are favored over narrowly focused species projects unless they have broader ecological significance.
- Applicants must demonstrate previous success and show that their work is guided by data or results. New or trial-phase projects are not eligible. WFN supports initiatives that are both practical and ambitious, with clear goals that can be scaled or replicated elsewhere.
- Proposals should include measurable goals and indicators to track progress. Long-term planning and financial sustainability are key, and projects should aim to continue well beyond the one-year Whitley Award funding of £40,000. Financial management capability—ideally evidenced through audited accounts—is highly desirable.
- WFN favors projects where their contribution can bring about meaningful change, particularly for efforts lacking visibility or access to major donors. Media exposure and recognition are also considered important in helping to advance such initiatives.
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