The Explorers Club is now accepting applications for the Rising Explorer Grant, a program designed to empower the next generation of scientists, researchers, and explorers. With awards averaging $2,000, the grant supports high school students and undergraduate students worldwide who are eager to conduct meaningful field research.
The program focuses on curiosity in action—funding projects that are grounded in science, exploration, and the creation of new knowledge. Successful applicants will not only receive funding but will also gain visibility within The Explorers Club network, with the opportunity to be considered for membership.
Who Can Apply
The Rising Explorer Grant is open to:
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High school students worldwide
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Undergraduate students worldwide
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Independent researchers working at an equivalent level
To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate:
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A strong and original idea
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A clear and achievable plan
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A commitment to conducting research that contributes to human knowledge
What the Grant Funds
The Rising Explorer Grant supports a wide range of scientific disciplines and field research projects. Areas of focus include, but are not limited to:
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Biology and ecology
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Wildlife conservation
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Environmental science
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Archaeology and anthropology
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Marine and freshwater studies
The emphasis is on true science—projects designed to generate new knowledge and insights. Applications proposing activities that are primarily for adventure, travel, or recreational purposes will not be considered.
Why Apply
The Rising Explorer Grant offers more than just financial assistance. Selected recipients will receive:
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Funding to support their research project (up to $2,000)
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Automatic consideration for Explorers Club membership, offering access to a global network of scientists, researchers, and explorers
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Visibility and recognition as part of an international community of Rising Explorers
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Support in launching or advancing a career in science and exploration
This program is designed to give young researchers the resources, confidence, and platform they need to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge.
Application Guidelines
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the full application guidelines before submitting. Important details include:
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Project Title: Keep titles concise and accessible, avoiding overly technical language.
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Project Categorization: Choose the predominant category for your research, even if it is interdisciplinary.
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Project Description: Clearly summarize the background, goals, methodologies, intended outcomes, and potential impact of your research. Avoid scientific jargon and abbreviations.
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Supplementary Materials: Images, videos, and maps may be uploaded separately.
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Letters of Support: Two letters of support are required. These may be uploaded directly or submitted confidentially to grants@explorers.org.
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Ethical Concerns: Applicants must identify and address any potential ethical concerns related to their project.
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Permits: Grantees are expected to secure necessary permits for their fieldwork. Applicants should indicate the status of their permit applications, and submit copies when available.
Applicants should set aside at least one hour to complete the online application. Please note that partial applications cannot be saved mid-process.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the Rising Explorer Grant form. Applicants will need to provide:
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A clear project title and description
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An expedition timeline
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A detailed budget
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Information on the location and methods of the project
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Plans for sharing findings (e.g., journal article, school paper, presentation)
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Two letters of support
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Information on required permits or ethical considerations
For additional support, applicants can contact grants@explorers.org.
Important Dates
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Application Deadline: Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM EST
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Grant Awards Announcement: Mid to late January 2026
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Research Start Date: Projects funded under this grant will commence in 2026
Examples of Past Projects
Rising Explorer Grant recipients represent a wide range of disciplines, geographies, and scientific approaches. Previous awardees have conducted research in countries including Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Argentina, Mongolia, the United States, and Venezuela. Projects have included:
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Conservation studies on the red panda in Nepal
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Research on the globally threatened Phayre’s Langur in Bangladesh
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Investigations into the diversity of amphibians and reptiles in Indonesia
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Studies on endangered river fish and shrimps in Southeast Asia
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Archaeological research on predatory dinosaurs in Argentina
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Exploration of the impacts of volcanism on marine communities in Mongolia
These examples demonstrate the global reach and diversity of the program, highlighting its commitment to supporting young researchers tackling pressing scientific and environmental questions.
Contact Information
For questions or clarifications regarding the Rising Explorer Grant or the application process, applicants may contact:
Email: grants@explorers.org
The Rising Explorer Grant is a unique opportunity for high school students and undergraduates worldwide to receive support for innovative, impactful field research. By funding projects across disciplines and geographies, the program helps nurture the next generation of scientists and explorers, ensuring their work contributes to the collective understanding of our planet and its diverse ecosystems.
Deadline to Apply: October 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM EST
For more Information and Applications:
Visit HERE
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