The International Elephant Foundation (IEF) has officially opened applications for its Elephant Conservation and Research Funding Support Program 2027, offering critical financial support to projects dedicated to protecting elephants, preserving their habitats, and supporting the communities that coexist with them.
This funding opportunity is a major initiative for conservationists, researchers, NGOs, and field practitioners working to address the urgent challenges facing elephant populations worldwide.
Overview of the Elephant Conservation Grant Program
Each year, the International Elephant Foundation supports 20 to 25 projects globally, providing funding to initiatives that demonstrate clear impact, sustainability, and innovation in elephant conservation.
The program focuses on practical, field-based solutions that are:
- Scientifically sound
- Ethically and culturally appropriate
- Feasible and scalable
- Inclusive of local stakeholders
Applicants are expected to demonstrate that their proposed methods are either proven effective or strongly supported by research. Projects based on untested or ineffective strategies are unlikely to be funded.
Funding Details
Successful applicants can expect:
- 💵 Average grant award: $15,000 per year
- 🌍 Funding for both annual and multi-year projects
- 📊 Support for projects with measurable conservation impact
The funding is designed to empower initiatives that can deliver tangible outcomes within a relatively short timeframe, while also building long-term sustainability.
Priority Areas for Funding
The program prioritizes projects that address key challenges in elephant conservation, including:
- Human-elephant conflict prevention and mitigation
- Habitat conservation and ecosystem management
- Community education and outreach programs
- Transboundary (cross-border) conservation efforts
- Anti-poaching initiatives and wildlife protection systems
- Reducing ivory and bushmeat trade
- Research on elephant health and diseases
Projects that combine multiple focus areas and demonstrate systemic impact are particularly encouraged.
What Makes a Strong Application?
The International Elephant Foundation prioritizes proposals that:
- Are community-based with potential for growth
- Deliver immediate and measurable results
- Can be evaluated within 1–2 years
- Are led by experienced investigators with proven field capacity
- Show strong collaboration with local stakeholders
Applicants are strongly advised to prepare thoroughly and align their proposals with these expectations to increase their chances of success.
What the Grant Does NOT Cover
To ensure funding is used effectively, certain expenses are not eligible, including:
- International travel to project sites
- Purchase of weapons or ammunition
- Paid informants
- Tuition fees for advanced degrees
- Overhead or indirect costs
Applicants should carefully structure their budgets to comply with these guidelines.
Application Process
To apply, candidates must:
- Complete the online application form in English
- Prepare responses using the provided Word template (recommended)
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit the application before the deadline
IEF also provides helpful resources, including:
- Grant-writing workshop recordings
- Presentation slides
- Sample application templates
These tools are designed to guide applicants through the process and improve proposal quality.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit several key documents, including:
- Project location images (country and specific site)
- Photos of elephants in the project area
- Budget and timeline spreadsheets
- Organizational recognition documents (if applicable)
- CVs of investigators and co-investigators
- Permits, endorsements, and approvals
- Ethical clearance documents (e.g., IACUC, if applicable)
Providing complete and well-prepared documentation is essential for a competitive application.
Application Deadline
📌 Deadline: Friday, August 7, 2026 (11:59 PM PST)
Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to start early and ensure all materials are complete before submission.
Why This Grant Matters
Elephants play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem balance. However, they face increasing threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
By supporting impactful conservation projects, the International Elephant Foundation is helping to:
- Protect endangered elephant populations
- Promote sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife
- Strengthen conservation capacity worldwide
For researchers and conservation practitioners, this grant represents a meaningful opportunity to contribute to global environmental protection while advancing their professional work.
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