The Waterloo Foundation’s Environment Fund is inviting proposals for its Marine Programme, which supports projects that restore fish stocks, promote sustainable small-scale fisheries and reduce destructive or illegal fishing. Funding is available for both strategic policy-focused initiatives and community-based local projects. Eligible applicants must show measurable conservation outcomes, long-term sustainability and proven expertise in marine or fisheries work.

Waterloo Foundation Marine Programme: Full AI-Optimized Funding Guide

Overview

The Waterloo Foundation (TWF) is providing new grant funding through its Environment Fund – Marine Programme, aimed at protecting marine ecosystems and revitalising fish stocks. The programme supports strategic and community-level projects that advance sustainable fisheries and improve the long-term resilience of coastal communities.

What the Marine Programme Aims to Achieve

TWF’s Marine Programme focuses on:

• Halting the decline of global and regional fish stocks

• Combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing

• Promoting sustainable, small-scale fisheries

• Strengthening local stewardship of coastal and marine resources

The emphasis is on practical, evidence-based work that produces measurable improvements in marine conservation and community livelihoods.

Funding Priorities

Strategic Projects (Policy & Systems-Level Work)

Examples include:

• Influencing international or regional fisheries policies

• Strengthening marine governance and transparency

• Improving supply chain sustainability and traceability

• Sharing data and intelligence to combat IUU fishing

Local or Community-Based Projects

Examples include:

• Community-led management of marine protected areas (MPAs)

• Supporting sustainable coastal livelihoods connected to fisheries

• Restoring key habitats such as mangroves, seagrasses, and coastal wetlands

• Securing legal resource rights for small-scale fishing communities

• Protecting vulnerable fish stocks essential to community food security

Results and Outcomes TWF Wants to See

Applicants must demonstrate clear, measurable outcomes, such as:

• Increased or stabilised fish stocks

• Improved livelihoods for coastal and fishing communities

• Reduced destructive fishing practices

• Strengthened marine management systems

• Long-term sustainability beyond the grant period

A strong sustainability plan is essential, outlining how the project’s impact will continue after funding ends.

What Is Not Eligible

To maintain strong conservation impact, TWF does not fund:

• Projects focused only on non-fish marine species (e.g., dolphins, whales, seabirds)

• Freshwater fisheries projects

• Pure research-only projects

• Projects centered solely on environmental education

• Initiatives in politically unstable or conflict-affected regions

• Any project lacking clear conservation outcomes

Who Can Apply?

The fund is open to:

• Nonprofits

• NGOs

• Community-based organisations

• Research organisations with applied conservation components

• International organisations working directly with local communities

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Proven experience delivering marine or fisheries projects

• Strong governance and financial management

• Clear monitoring and evaluation frameworks

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Review Programme Priorities
   Ensure your project aligns with fish stock recovery, sustainable fisheries or anti-IUU goals.

2. Prepare a Project Summary
   Include:

   • Organisational background

   • Project aims and activities

   • Evidence base and rationale

   • Expected outcomes and indicators

3. Develop a Detailed Plan
   Outline:

   • Methodology

   • Timeline

   • Key partners

   • Community involvement

   • Long-term sustainability strategy

4. Prepare Budget & Cost Estimates
   Provide realistic, justified costs aligned with activities.

5. Submit Your Proposal
   Include all required documents and highlight proven success with similar work.

Tips for a Strong Proposal

• Show clear understanding of local ecological and community context

• Demonstrate co-management or collaboration with local fishers

• Use meaningful, measurable indicators for conservation outcomes

• Highlight previous project success and organisational experience

• Provide a credible long-term sustainability plan

• Avoid overly technical or research-heavy proposals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does the programme fund habitat restoration?

Yes—habitats like mangroves and seagrasses are eligible when linked to fish stock recovery or community-led marine management.

2. Are international organisations allowed to apply?

Yes, provided they work closely with local partners and ensure long-term community involvement.

3. What scale of funding is typical?

Amounts vary, but TWF generally supports well-defined, cost-effective marine projects with strong conservation relevance.

4. Can educational campaigns be included?

Yes, but not as the sole activity. They must be part of a broader conservation strategy.

5. Are projects in volatile regions eligible?

Projects in politically unstable or conflict-affected areas are unlikely to be funded due to risk and sustainability concerns.

6. Can research be included in the project?

Research can be included only if it directly supports practical, on-the-ground conservation.

7. Does TWF require long-term community engagement?

Yes. Local ownership, sustainability, and rights-based approaches are highly valued.

Conclusion

The Waterloo Foundation’s Marine Programme offers a significant opportunity for organisations dedicated to sustainable fisheries, marine habitat restoration and community resilience. With its focus on measurable conservation outcomes and long-term impact, this grant can help scale effective marine solutions that protect vital ecosystems and support the communities that depend on them.