The Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) has announced the WCT-BEES Grants Programme 2026-27, offering financial support to conservation organizations, researchers, and grassroots conservation practitioners working to protect India’s biodiversity and natural ecosystems. The program aims to support innovative conservation initiatives that contribute to wildlife protection, habitat conservation, ecological research, and community-led conservation efforts across the country.
The WCT-BEES Grants Programme provides an excellent opportunity for registered nonprofit organizations, conservation groups, and researchers to secure funding for projects focused on biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.
About the WCT-BEES Grants Programme
The WCT-BEES Grants Programme supports individuals and organizations engaged in conservation research and grassroots conservation activities in India. The initiative seeks to strengthen conservation efforts by providing financial assistance to projects that address critical environmental challenges and contribute to the protection of wildlife and ecosystems.
The program is designed to encourage evidence-based conservation actions, promote ecological research, and support local communities working to conserve biodiversity.
Grant Categories
Wildlife Research Small Grant
This category supports research projects that contribute to a better understanding of wildlife species, habitats, ecological processes, and conservation challenges. Research findings are expected to provide valuable insights that can inform conservation planning and policy decisions.
Grassroots Conservation Small Grant
This category supports practical conservation initiatives implemented by conservation organizations, local groups, and practitioners working directly with communities and ecosystems. Projects should demonstrate tangible conservation outcomes and community engagement.
Funding Amount
Selected applicants may receive grants ranging from:
₹3,00,000 to ₹3,50,000
The funding is intended to support project implementation, research activities, fieldwork, data collection, conservation interventions, and related project expenses.
Eligible Applicants
Applications may be submitted by:
- Registered conservation organizations in India
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Researchers
- Conservation practitioners
- Indian citizens working in the field of biodiversity conservation
- Grassroots conservation groups
Applicants should demonstrate relevant experience and a clear commitment to conservation and environmental protection.
Priority Areas
Projects may focus on:
- Wildlife conservation
- Biodiversity protection
- Endangered species conservation
- Habitat restoration
- Ecosystem conservation
- Community-based conservation
- Ecological research
- Human-wildlife coexistence
- Landscape-level conservation initiatives
- Environmental sustainability
Project Duration
Supported projects may be implemented for a period of up to:
10 months
Applicants should develop realistic timelines and measurable outcomes for their proposed activities.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is:
20 July 2026 (11:59 PM IST)
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines carefully and submit their proposals before the closing date.
Selection Process
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Conservation significance
- Project feasibility
- Expected impact
- Scientific and technical merit
- Community participation
- Sustainability of outcomes
- Organizational or applicant experience
Successful applicants are expected to be informed on or before 30 September 2026.
Why This Opportunity Matters
India is home to some of the world’s most diverse ecosystems and wildlife species. However, increasing environmental pressures, habitat degradation, and biodiversity loss continue to threaten many species and landscapes. The WCT-BEES Grants Programme provides critical support for organizations and individuals working to address these challenges through research, conservation action, and community engagement.
For NGOs, conservation organizations, and researchers, this funding opportunity can help strengthen ongoing initiatives while generating valuable knowledge and conservation outcomes.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the official WCT-BEES Grants Programme page, review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines, and complete the online application process before the deadline.
Official Website
Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT)
Conclusion
The WCT-BEES Grants Programme 2026-27 offers valuable funding support for conservation organizations, researchers, and grassroots practitioners dedicated to protecting India’s biodiversity. With grants of up to ₹3.5 lakh available for conservation research and grassroots initiatives, the program presents an important opportunity to advance wildlife conservation and ecosystem protection efforts across India. Eligible applicants are encouraged to prepare strong project proposals and apply before 20 July 2026.
Note: Please check at the official website for further information and contact concerned officials for further clarification at smallgrants@wctindia.org.
- Wildlife Conservation Grants India
- Biodiversity Grants India
- Environmental Grants for NGOs
- Conservation Funding India
- Grassroots Conservation Grants
- Wildlife Research Grants India