In support of the United Nations agenda on sustainable development, the Science for People and Nature Partnership (SNAPP) aims to find solutions for problems at the interface of economic development, nature conservation, and human well-being. SNAPP operates through working groups that represent 200 institutions from more than 30 countries. SNAPP provides up to US$1 million total across 4-6 working groups. Proposals are invited from researchers and practitioners of any nationality affiliated with an academic, governmental, multilateral, or non-profit institution. Individuals operating independently are also eligible to apply. Proposals from low- and middle-income countries are especially welcome. The deadline for proposals is 06 January 2026. Science for Nature and People Partnership
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European Commission Erasmus Mundus — International Masters Degree in Environment 2026-2028
MESPOM is a two-year Erasmus Mundus master’s course in environmental sciences, policy, and management operated by four European and two North American universities. MESPOM invites applications from all countries. MESPOM aims to prepare students for identifying and implementing solutions to complex environmental sustainability challenges, especially in an international context. Graduates receive MSc degrees from the Central European University, Lund University, and the University of Manchester. The program offers several forms of financial assistance, including tuition fee waivers and living stipends. Candidates applying for financial aid should submit their applications before 07 January 2026. About MESPOM
Learning Planet Institute — Youth Design Challenge
The Learning Planet Youth Design Challenge is an annual global initiative encouraging young individuals aged 15-26 to pitch their ideas for innovative learning programs for their dream university. Participants can pitch programs on one of the following themes: Community Engagement, Socio-emotional Development, and Sustainability (planetary health and regenerative economy). The 12 finalists will receive regular mentorship from a global network of industries with the goal of implementing their programs. The winner receives US$1000. The deadline for submissions is 15 January 2026. Youth Design Challenge
Earth Prize — Student Environmental Projects
The Earth Prize is an annual, global environmental sustainability competition for students between the ages of 13 and 19. The Earth Prize will reward seven regional winners, each receiving $12,500 to implement their ideas. The regions are Oceania, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, North America, and Central & South America. Additionally, The Earth Prize will recognize three mentors and three educators of the year, awarding each $2,500. The registration phase closes on 31 January 2026. Earth Prize
Sea of Change Foundation — Reef Rescue and Rapid Response
Reef Rescue and Rapid Response grants seek to empower divers and their communities to act as first responders to localized impacts on coral reefs. Funds support the immediate response to coral reef damage from anchor drops, vessel groundings, entanglement, oil spills, and acute pollution that impact coral reefs. The grants will support divers and their communities in responding quickly to a reef-damaging incident by helping cover immediate costs such as boat fuel, staff time, video cameras, lift bags, transect tapes and handheld GPS units. These grants range from US$500 to US$5,000 per project and are available on a rolling basis and as funds are available. Reef Rescue and Rapid Response Grants
AirAsia Foundation — Improving Communities
The AirAsia Foundation makes grants to social enterprises with projects to empower communities, enable them to build sustainable livelihoods, tackle social problems, or protect the environment. Applicants must be registered and be based in ASEAN. NGOs looking to diversify funding sources through social enterprise are welcome to submit an application. AirAsia’s priority is to support smaller social enterprises. Applications can be submitted anytime, but the review process may take up to 6 months. Link
National Geographic Society — Coastal Ecosystems
National Geographic invites science-driven proposals that protect, restore, or enhance blue forest coastal ecosystems—such as mangroves, salt marshes, kelp forests, and seagrass meadows—to benefit both biodiversity and local communities. The program supports two funding levels: Level I grants up to US $20 thousand, ideal for early-career project leaders, and Level II grants up to US $100 thousand for more established practitioners seeking deeper impact. Projects must be science-oriented and are strongly encouraged to partner with communities. The RFP closes on 03 October 2025. Link to RFP
Pure Ocean — Pure Ocean Challenges
Pure Ocean supports innovative applied research projects worldwide, protecting fragile marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Pure Ocean seeks projects that develop marine conservation initiatives managed by local communities and Indigenous peoples or explore nature-based solutions for the preservation of blue carbon ecosystems. Only non-profit organizations (NGOs, universities, research institutes) can apply and receive funding. Pure Ocean only supports scientific projects addressing a clearly defined research question. Selected projects will receive up to €40 thousand (€30 thousand/year), for the duration of one to two years. Applications have to be submitted by 01 October 2025. Pure Ocean Challenges
Explorers Club — Exodus Exploration without Boundaries Grant
The Explorers Club supports the scientific fieldwork of groundbreaking explorers around the world. The Exodus Exploration without Boundaries Grant supports expeditions that further our understanding of the world through scientific, cultural, and conservation fieldwork. The average award is US$4.000. The deadline to submit applications is 13 October 2025. Exodus Exploration without Boundaries Grant
Dalai Lama Fellows — Mentorship for Emerging Leaders
The Dalai Lama Fellowship offers emerging leaders from all around the world mentorship and coaching to design and implement their own original field projects addressing a global challenge. Project areas include environmental sustainability, among others. The fellowship does not offer funding for projects, instead, it offers coaching and a global community. This program is open to next-generation leaders (20-35 years old). The deadline for applications is 12 November 2025. Dalai Lama Fellows