Applications are open for the Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) Grants Programme 2026, a global funding opportunity supporting individuals and organizations working to protect marine ecosystems, sharks, rays, skates, and other marine species through research, conservation, and education initiatives.
The Save Our Seas Foundation is an international philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting innovative projects that advance marine conservation and improve our understanding of the ocean. Since its establishment, the Foundation has funded hundreds of projects worldwide, helping scientists, conservationists, educators, and community leaders develop practical solutions to marine environmental challenges.
The Foundation offers several grant categories designed to support projects at different stages of development and impact.
Focus Areas
The Foundation supports projects that contribute to:
- Marine biodiversity conservation
- Shark, ray, skate and chimaera conservation
- Marine and coastal ecosystem protection
- Scientific research and monitoring
- Community-based conservation
- Marine education and awareness
- Ocean policy and management
- Conservation technology and innovation
- Capacity building for conservation practitioners
Projects should demonstrate clear conservation benefits and contribute to long-term protection of marine environments.
Grant Categories
1. Small Grants
Designed for early-stage projects, pilot studies, and short-term conservation initiatives.
Funding
Up to USD 5,000
Suitable For
- Pilot research projects
- Community awareness activities
- Educational programmes
- Preliminary field studies
- Local conservation initiatives
Application Deadlines
Applications accepted throughout the year.
2. Keystone Grants
Keystone Grants support larger, established projects that have strong conservation potential and measurable impact.
Funding
Up to USD 30,000 per year for up to three years
Suitable For
- Long-term conservation programmes
- Advanced research projects
- Species monitoring initiatives
- Community conservation programmes
- Ecosystem management projects
Application Deadlines
Applications are reviewed through annual funding cycles.
3. Impact Grants
Impact Grants support mature projects with demonstrated success and significant conservation outcomes.
Funding
Up to USD 100,000 over two years
Suitable For
- Large-scale conservation programmes
- Regional conservation initiatives
- Projects with proven conservation impact
- Efforts that can influence policy and management decisions
Eligibility
Applications are welcomed from:
- Researchers and scientists
- Conservation practitioners
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Community-based organizations
- Universities and research institutions
- Environmental educators
- Early-career conservationists
- Independent conservation professionals
Applicants must demonstrate the skills, expertise, and capacity necessary to successfully implement the proposed project.
Selection Criteria
Projects are evaluated based on:
- Conservation relevance and impact
- Scientific merit
- Innovation and originality
- Feasibility and methodology
- Community involvement
- Long-term sustainability
- Potential for measurable outcomes
The Foundation places strong emphasis on projects that create lasting conservation benefits and contribute to improved management of marine resources.
Benefits
Successful applicants receive:
- Financial support for project implementation
- International recognition through the Save Our Seas Foundation network
- Opportunities to share project outcomes globally
- Access to a community of marine conservation experts
- Increased visibility for conservation initiatives
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary by grant category.
Applicants are encouraged to review the specific requirements and timelines for each grant programme on the Foundation’s website before applying.
Applications are welcome from individuals and organizations around the world. Projects can be implemented in any country provided they contribute to marine conservation and align with the Foundation’s objectives.
