Deadline: 13-Dec-2025
The WNE-India START-UP Grant supports young conservationists and grassroots organisations with seed funding to launch early-stage biodiversity, wildlife and community-based environmental projects. With quarterly cycles and modest but impactful support, the grant encourages pilot initiatives, scientific research and community action across India.
Overview
The WNE-India START-UP Grant is designed to empower young conservationists and small organisations looking to begin impactful work in biodiversity conservation, wildlife research and community-focused environmental initiatives. As a seed-funding mechanism, it enables early-stage ideas to develop into practical, science-based field projects that contribute to India’s ecological wellbeing.
Purpose of the Grant
This grant aims to support innovative, grassroots-level conservation efforts in fields such as zoology, botany, habitat restoration, environmental science and natural resource management. Its primary focus is enabling pilot projects, exploratory studies and small-scale community initiatives that often struggle to secure initial financial backing. Although the funding is modest, successful projects may receive renewed support based on demonstrated progress and impact.
Funding and Application Cycles
The grant amount is Rs. 10,000, provided as early-stage assistance to kickstart on-ground action. Applications are accepted quarterly in April, July, September and December, allowing multiple opportunities for applicants throughout the year. Funding may be renewed if the project shows measurable outcomes and continued relevance.
Eligibility Requirements
The grant is open only to Indian citizens. Projects must be completed within a six-month timeline, ensuring timely execution and clear deliverables. Each applicant or organisation can submit only one project per cycle, and they are encouraged to seek additional funding sources when necessary. The grant does not support litigated expenses, undercover operations or enforcement-related activities, maintaining a commitment to ethical, transparent conservation practices.
Implementation Responsibilities
Recipients must acknowledge WNE-India’s support by displaying its logo on project materials, posters, banners or field outputs. Any report, publication or media content generated during the project must credit WNE-India appropriately. Projects involving protected areas or biological sample collection require valid permits and approvals, highlighting the importance of regulatory compliance in conservation work.
Reapplication and Evaluation
Applicants are free to reapply in future cycles regardless of previous acceptance or rejection. Each application is reviewed independently, ensuring equal opportunity for new ideas and improved proposals over time.
Why This Grant Matters
The WNE-India START-UP Grant plays a vital role in capacity-building for India’s emerging environmental leaders. By offering accessible, low-barrier funding, it helps young researchers and small community groups transform early-stage ideas into meaningful action. The grant strengthens grassroots conservation, encourages scientific inquiry and fosters environmental stewardship across diverse landscapes and communities.
For more information, visit Wildlife And Ecology.
