How to Find Grants for Conservation Groups Nonprofits: A Practical Guide

Quick Stats

In 2021, nearly $62 billion was awarded in grants for environmental conservation projects in the U.S.

Approximately 75% of conservation grant funding goes to organizations with budgets over $1 million.

Over 30% of conservation nonprofits report they struggle to find suitable grants.

Grants from private foundations make up about 52% of funding for conservation efforts.

Grant Types

1. Project Grants: These are often awarded to fund specific conservation projects, such as habitat restoration or species protection programs.

2. Operating Grants: This type supports the general operational costs of a nonprofit, allowing you to maintain staff and resources.

3. Capacity-building Grants: Aimed at helping organizations improve their infrastructure and effectiveness, enabling you to become more sustainable in the long run.

4. Research Grants: Funding specifically for data collection and study related to environmental impacts or conservation efforts.

5. Fellowship Grants: These grants support individuals working on meaningful conservation initiatives that might not have organizational backing.

Finding Grants

1. Step 1: Define Your Mission and Scope: Clearly outline what your conservation group aims to achieve to align with grant makers' priorities.

2. Step 2: Use Zeffy's AI Grant Research Tool: Start by signing up for free. With unlimited searches and AI-powered matching, Zeffy helps you find grants that align perfectly with your activities. This tool is ideal for conservation groups because it tailors suggestions just for you.

3. Step 3: Broaden Your Search: Apart from Zeffy’s tool, explore other platforms like Foundation Center and Grants.gov. These also provide valuable insights, but beware—they often have limitations on searches unless you subscribe.

4. Step 4: Network: Connect with other nonprofits in your field. Attend workshops and conferences to meet funders and learn about opportunities that may not be widely advertised.

5. Step 5: Create a Grants Calendar: Track deadlines, reporting dates, and submission requirements to stay organized and on top of your applications.

Expert Tips

1. Tip 1: Focus Your Efforts: Target funders who are specifically interested in your area of conservation, whether it’s wildlife protection, habitat restoration, or climate action.

2. Tip 2: Build Relationships: Establish connections with potential funders before you apply; personalized approaches can make a significant difference.

3. Tip 3: Tailor Applications: Customize each application to reflect the specific mission and values of the funder. Common pitfalls include generic proposals that don’t resonate.

4. Tip 4: Highlight Impact: Share success stories or specific metrics from prior projects to demonstrate your group’s effectiveness and potential for positive change.

5. Tip 5: Collaborate with Peers: Consider partnerships with other organizations to broaden your reach and show collaborative impact.

6. Tip 6: Prepare for Follow-ups: Funders appreciate updates on funded projects. Being proactive in communication can set you apart for future grant opportunities.

7. Tip 7: Evaluate and Reflect: After receiving a grant or being denied, review your approach. Make adjustments for future submissions.

Next Steps

1. Start using Zeffy's AI Grant Research Tool today! Sign up for free and unlock unlimited searches tailored to your conservation group’s needs.

2. Explore additional resources: Visit websites like the National Philanthropic Trust and Environmental Grantmakers Association for more extensive lists of funding opportunities.