WCT-Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species Grants Programme

The WCT-Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species (WCT-BEES) Grants Programme is designed to support vital conservation research and grassroots initiatives in India. This program offers small grants to dedicated researchers, conservationists, and organizations working to protect endangered species and high-biodiversity landscapes.

📝 About the Programme

The Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) instituted this small grants programme to provide financial aid for the conservation of endangered species and critical habitats. It supports organizations, motivated individuals, and researchers in carrying out conservation work in India.

Types of Grants

1. Wildlife Research Small Grant: Focused on wildlife researchers working on endangered species and/or landscapes of exceptional biodiversity value in India. Projects with conservation as a core component are preferred.
2. Grassroots Conservation Small Grant: Designed for conservationists and organizations focusing on endangered species and/or landscapes of exceptional biodiversity value in India.

Both grants are open to Indian citizens and organizations with valid registration certificates for operations in India. The grant awardees will be announced by 10 September, 2025.

🎁 Benefits

• Grants range from ₹3,50,000 to ₹4,00,000 per grantee.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria to apply for the WCT-BEES Grants:

• Only one project can be submitted by any individual or organization.
• Applicable to Indian citizens and organizations with valid registration certificates for operations in India.
• Applicants must hold a minimum of a graduate degree from a recognized university. For organizations/educational institutions, this condition applies to the lead applicant.
• Projects must focus on the conservation of endangered species and/or landscapes of exceptional biodiversity value in India.
• Projects should not exceed a duration of 10 months.
• Projects may include a social dimension, such as nature awareness, education, or sustainable livelihood options for local communities.
• A significant proportion of funds must be used for project activities.
• Grants will not fund organizational overheads.
• Essential equipment for fieldwork (e.g., GPS, rangefinders) may be purchased on a case-by-case basis. However, costly equipment like DSLR cameras, laptops, or vehicles will not be funded.
• Projects must have measurable outcomes leading to tangible conservation benefits.
• Master’s dissertation work is eligible.
• Applicants with previously rejected or supported projects may reapply with new proposals during successive grant cycles.
• Applicants are encouraged to secure matching grants from other sources, with full disclosure of additional funding.

General Exclusions

• Projects exceeding 10 months.
• Funding for national or international travel for:
  • Attending conferences/seminars.
  • Laboratory analysis.
• Building permanent infrastructure.
• Undercover or enforcement work.
• Expenses related to litigation.

📜 Application Process

1. Access the application form here.
2. Read the general guidelines and FAQs before applying.
3. Submit the completed application form along with the required details.

Selection Process

• Proposals will be meticulously appraised by the Selection Committee instituted by WCT.
• Selection will be based on alignment with the programme, merit, and significance of conservation goals.

📅 Key Dates

• Date Published: 26 July, 2025
• Application Deadline: 10 August, 2025
• Grant Awardees Announcement: 10 September, 2025

📌 Additional Information

Branding and Acknowledgements

• Grantees must acknowledge WCT funding support in all publications, reports, websites, and media.
• The WCT logo must be used appropriately on all project materials.
• Grantees must not portray themselves as part of WCT in any way that harms the organization’s reputation.

Permissions

• Grantees must secure all necessary permits before starting the project, especially for activities involving protected areas, sample collection, or invasive research.

Financial Oversight

• Unspent funds must be returned with a detailed explanation.
• Overspending will not be reimbursed by WCT.

Intellectual Property Rights

• All data and intellectual property generated under the programme will remain the property of the grantee.
• Grantees must share relevant data, photos, and videos with WCT for outreach purposes.

🌐 Application Portal

• View details of the programme on the WCT-Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species Grants Programme page.
• Apply directly via the application form.

This programme is a unique opportunity for conservationists and researchers passionate about protecting India’s biodiversity and endangered species.

• WCT-BEES grants will range from Rs. 3,50,000/- to 4,00,000/- per grantee.