The Jack Kimmel International Grant Program 2026 provides up to US$10,000 in funding for research projects in arboriculture, urban forestry, tree health, and risk assessment. The program is specifically designed for researchers and institutions working primarily outside the United States. Applicants must first submit a Letter of Intent by 15 September 2026, and selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals by 1 October 2026.
About the Jack Kimmel International Grant Program
The Jack Kimmel International Grant Program was established to support international research that advances the science and practice of arboriculture and urban forestry. Managed by TREE Fund, the program encourages innovative studies that improve tree care, urban forest management, and public safety related to trees.
The grant is particularly valuable for researchers in developing and emerging economies who are conducting applied or scientific research with practical relevance to arboriculture and urban forestry professionals worldwide.
Research Areas Supported
Projects should align with one or more of the following focus areas defined by TREE Fund:
- Arboriculture: Theory and Practice
- Tree Health Research
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation
- Urban Forestry Research
These areas support research that improves tree management practices, enhances urban ecosystem resilience, and advances scientific understanding of tree care and safety.
What the Grant Does Not Fund
According to the official guidelines, the program does not support:
- Tree planting projects
- Municipal tree inventories or surveys
- Traditional forestry or timber production studies
- Product testing for manufacturers
- Direct grants to individuals without institutional administration
This distinction is important for applicants to ensure their proposals align with the program’s research-focused objectives.
Who Can Apply?
The program is intended for researchers and institutions working primarily outside the United States.
Potential Eligible Applicants
- Universities and academic institutions
- Research institutes
- Arboriculture researchers
- Urban forestry researchers
- Environmental science departments
- Institutions conducting applied tree care research
- Collaborative international research teams
Applicants should ensure that the grant is administered through an eligible institution rather than submitted solely by an individual researcher.
Why This Research Grant Matters
Urban trees play a critical role in improving air quality, reducing heat, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting public health in cities worldwide. However, challenges such as climate change, pests, diseases, and urban development continue to threaten tree populations.
The Jack Kimmel International Grant Program supports research that can:
- Improve urban tree management practices
- Enhance tree health and resilience
- Reduce risks associated with tree failure
- Support evidence-based urban forestry policies
- Strengthen global knowledge sharing in arboriculture
By funding applied research, the program contributes to healthier and more sustainable urban environments worldwide.
Key Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | Currently Open |
| Letter of Intent Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
| Full Application Deadline | 1 October 2026 |
| Grant Amount | Up to US$10,000 |
How to Prepare a Strong Application
To improve the chances of success, applicants should:
1. Align Clearly with Program Priorities
Ensure the proposal directly addresses arboriculture, tree health, risk assessment, or urban forestry research.
2. Demonstrate Scientific Merit
Present a clear research question, methodology, and expected contribution to the field.
3. Show Practical Relevance
Explain how the research findings can benefit arborists, urban foresters, policymakers, or tree care professionals.
4. Provide a Realistic Budget
Keep the budget transparent, justified, and aligned with the proposed research activities.
5. Submit a Strong Letter of Intent
The LOI is the first screening stage, so it should concisely explain the project’s objectives, significance, and methodology.
Official Grant Page
For detailed eligibility criteria, application instructions, and official guidelines, visit the TREE Fund website:
Who Should Consider Applying?
This opportunity is especially relevant for:
- Arboriculture researchers
- Urban forestry academics
- Tree health specialists
- Environmental science departments
- Universities conducting urban ecology research
- Researchers studying tree risk assessment and mitigation
- International institutions focused on sustainable urban environments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Jack Kimmel International Grant Program?
It is an international research grant program administered by TREE Fund that provides funding for arboriculture and urban forestry research projects conducted primarily outside the United States.
How much funding is available?
Successful applicants may receive up to US$10,000 in grant funding.
Who is eligible to apply?
Researchers and institutions working primarily outside the United States in fields related to arboriculture, urban forestry, tree health, and risk assessment may apply through their institutions.
What is the deadline?
The Letter of Intent deadline is 15 September 2026, and selected applicants must submit full proposals by 1 October 2026.
Can NGOs apply for this grant?
The program is primarily designed for research institutions and academic organizations. NGOs may participate only if they are conducting eligible research and meet the institutional requirements outlined by TREE Fund.
What types of projects are not eligible?
Tree planting projects, municipal tree surveys, traditional forestry studies, product testing, and projects without a clear research component are not eligible for funding.
Conclusion
The Jack Kimmel International Grant Program 2026 is a valuable funding opportunity for researchers advancing the fields of arboriculture and urban forestry. With grants of up to US$10,000, the program supports innovative research that can improve tree care practices, urban forest management, and environmental resilience worldwide.
Eligible researchers and institutions should begin preparing their Letters of Intent before the 15 September 2026 deadline to maximize their chances of securing funding.
For detailed and updated information please visit Tree Fund official website