The Wild Wonder Foundation is once again empowering individuals around the globe through its Wild Wonder Micro Grant Program 2026, an initiative designed to deepen people’s connection to nature through journaling, creativity, and community-building.
This program is rooted in the belief that attention, curiosity, art, and science can transform how individuals engage with the natural world. By funding grassroots ideas, the foundation supports leaders who are passionate about introducing nature journaling to new and underserved communities.
If you have a vision to start or expand a Nature Journaling Club, this is a powerful opportunity to bring that idea to life with financial support and global recognition.
About the Wild Wonder Micro Grant Program
The Wild Wonder Micro Grant Program celebrates innovation and creativity within the global nature journaling community. Since its inception, the program has been largely community-funded, with contributions coming from donations and educational classes led by renowned instructors such as John Muir Laws.
The program focuses on:
- Encouraging nature connection
- Supporting creative outreach ideas
- Expanding access to underserved communities
- Empowering individuals to lead impactful environmental initiatives
2026 Micro Grant Categories
1. Project Micro Grant
- Currently closed for 2026
- Focuses on broader nature journaling outreach projects
- Will reopen in January 2027
- Click HERE to sign up to the email list and get notified when the grant opens.
2. Club Micro Grant (OPEN FOR 2026)
This is the active funding opportunity and includes two distinct grant types:
A. Seed Club Micro Grant ($300)
Designed to support the creation of new Nature Journaling Clubs.
Applicants must include:
- A membership goal (e.g., 8–10 members)
- A 6-month plan outlining:
- Club launch strategy
- Regular meeting schedules
Priority consideration:
- Projects reaching communities without existing access to nature journaling
B. Sprout Club Micro Grant ($500)
Focused on growing or revitalizing existing clubs.
Applicants must include:
- A membership expansion goal (e.g., percentage growth)
- A 6-month growth plan detailing:
- Outreach strategies
- Expanded journaling activities
Priority consideration:
- Clubs expanding access to underserved or new audiences
Funding Details
- Seed Grant: $300
- Sprout Grant: $500
Funds can be used for:
- Materials (journals, art supplies)
- Marketing and outreach
- Event or entry fees
- Guest facilitators or stipends
Application Timeline (2026 Club Micro Grant)
- May 1, 2026: Applications open
- May 29, 2026 (5 PM Pacific): Application deadline
- May 30 – June 26: Review period
- July 1, 2026: Award announcements
- July 14, 2026: First payment issued
- December 31, 2026: Project completion deadline
- January 8, 2027: Final report submission
Is the Grant Still Open?
Yes. As of May 6, 2026, the Wild Wonder Club Micro Grant is currently open and accepting applications until May 29, 2026 (5 PM Pacific Time).
Eligibility and Project Scope
The Club Micro Grant Program supports projects anywhere in the world. Whether you are launching a new club or expanding an existing one, your idea must:
- Promote nature journaling practices
- Demonstrate clear community impact
- Include a structured 6-month implementation plan
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare detailed information, including:
- Personal and Contact Information
- Geographic Location of the Project
- Existing Clubs in the Area
- Nature Journaling & Leadership Experience (max 300 words)
- Club Plan (max 500 words)
- Timeline (6-month plan, max 250 words)
- Metrics for Success (max 200 words)
- Budget Plan
- Growth and Community Impact Statement (max 300 words)
- Two References
Important Application Notes
- Only one application per person is allowed
- You cannot apply for both Project and Club Grants in the same year
- Applications cannot be edited after submission
- Incomplete applications are disqualified
How to Apply
To apply successfully:
- Download the 2026 Club Micro Grant Application Worksheet (DOC or PDF)
- Draft and refine your responses offline
- Submit your final application via the official online application form (opens May 1, 2026) HERE.
Selection and Review Process
Applications are reviewed by the Wild Wonder team and community members based on:
1. Clarity
- Well-defined goals and deliverables
- Strong alignment with nature journaling principles
2. Capacity
- Ability to reach new audiences
- Demonstrated leadership and relevant experience
Note: Reviews are conducted anonymously to ensure fairness.
Award Announcements
- Applicants will receive decisions via email 5–6 weeks after the deadline
- Winners will also be announced on:
- Official website
- Social media platforms
To learn more about this opportunity, click HERE.
Grant Promotion Responsibility
Recipients are expected to:
- Promote their clubs locally
- Engage their target audience actively
The foundation may also feature selected projects in:
- Newsletters
- Annual reports
- Social media campaigns
Support the Program
This grant is powered by community generosity. You can support future applicants by contributing through donations to the Wild Wonder Foundation HERE.
Discover more grant opportunities on OFY HERE.
