Deadline: 30-Nov-25
The East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF) is requesting proposals for the Growth, Engagement and Resources (GEAR) Small Grant Program.
This grant is intended to be a catalyst for growth and development of conservation-based organizations by supporting operational costs essential for in-situ fieldwork.
GEAR addresses the financial challenges organizations face when their needs fall outside large-scale project-based funding.
Categories
- Proposals should fall within one of the three categories defined below:
- Field equipment: supplies required to monitor, survey, and assess species and habitats including, but not limited to, technology, software, tools, clothing, PPE, and transport.
- Outreach: supplies needed for public engagement through schools, awareness campaigns, and activities including, but not limited to, pamphlets, books, stickers, digital content creation, and signage.
- Professional Development: training needed for organizational growth and greater capacity. Opportunities may include, but are not limited to, symposiums, workshops, conferences, and training. Additional associated costs such as travel and housing can be included and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Funding Information
- Funding requests up to $1,000 are anticipated, though larger requests may be considered or partially funded.
Duration
- Recipients must use the funds within 12 months and submit a brief report by the end of that period.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants from 501(c)3 non-profits (or equivalent), governmental and non-governmental organizations that focus on direct in-situ conservation action are eligible to apply.
- Organizations may only apply for one category at a time: equipment, outreach, or professional development.
- Recipients are not eligible again in the same calendar year. Unspecified overhead, administrative costs, salaries and vehicles are not eligible.
- Off-road vehicles will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Requested items must be justified with a clear purpose and tie to the organization’s activities and mission and how it will contribute to the growth of the organization.
- Priority will be given to applicants who can demonstrate organizational growth and self-reliance
For more information, visit ECZF.