Early-career conservation professionals now have the chance to apply for the 2026 Future Conservationist Awards, a global initiative supporting young teams committed to safeguarding threatened species and ecosystems. Applications must be submitted through the online application portal no later than 9 January 2026.

The awards provide project grants of up to USD 15,000 along with long-term support through a vibrant international alumni network. Successful teams not only receive funding but also benefit from training opportunities, mentorship, and additional pathways for professional growth.

What the Award Supports

Projects should directly contribute to the protection of species that are:

• Listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List,

• Or identified as needing urgent conservation action based on available evidence.

Eligible topics may include:

• Climate change impacts and adaptation strategies

• Habitat restoration and sustainable management

• Community-led conservation approaches

• Indigenous stewardship and participation

• Social wellbeing and conservation linkages

• Environmental governance and policy work

Support for Applicants

Applicants are encouraged to review:

• The detailed application guidelines

• Eligibility criteria

• Help & Resources materials prepared to support teams as they develop competitive proposals

These materials outline what reviewers are looking for and provide practical advice on designing strong, community-grounded conservation projects.