For more than a century, National Geographic has worked to support numerous endeavors.
National Geographic has several grant committees and programs, all of which are in some way based on research. From the testing of new technology in their Big Cats Initiative, to grants for field research and exploration, there are a range of project goals. Grant proposals should be submitted to the committee most suited to the research being done.
Big Cat Initiative
All across Africa, lions are a rapidly declining species. Today, their population has dwindled to a mere 20,000 of these magnificent animals. The goal of the Big Cat Initiative is to halt the population decline and restore the population to a sustainable level. Grant proposals should focus on quick results projects that save lions, anti-poaching programs. Testing of new technologies, community-focused educational projects, and projects establishing economic incentives to aid local people in ensuring the survival of lions are also suggested.
Research and Exploration
The Committee for Research and Exploration is looking for projects that have a geographical aspect and are relevant to other fields of study with broad scientific interest. Applications are typically limited to given fields, including: anthropology, astronomy, oceanography, botany, geology, geography, and zoology. This committee emphasizes multidisciplinary projects that also address environmental issues. Applications that only seek support for laboratory work and archival research aren't considered.
Conversation Trust
The Conservation Trust was created in March of 2001 to support efforts in the field and public education campaigns that make individuals aware of the global issues and to connect conservation issues with day to day life. Their goal is to empower people to take action. Their first grant was awarded to botanist Nalini Nadkarni for her work on an outreach-geared study of forest canopies.
World Cultures Fund
Part of the Conservation Trust, the World Cultures Fund is meant to support the work of archaeologists, cultural anthropologists and other professionals in places where the history of civilization is somehow at risk. Their projects include the conservation of antiquities, expeditions to research and share the stories of people all over the world, record conservation, and the use of film, music, and various media to celebrate the cultures of the world.
Expeditions Council
The Expeditions Council is made up of representatives from the various National Geographic editorial divisions. This council is seeking projects that have the potential to tell powerful stories and use powerful images. They judge applicants on their qualifications, as well as the merit of the project and its uniqueness. While the council doesn't require advanced academic degrees, applicants should have some previous qualifications and experience that relates to their project.
Young Explorers Grants
National Geographic offers Young Explorers Grants to people between 18 and 25 years old so that they can pursue research goals, conservation efforts, and exploration projects that are in line with National Geographic's other grants and programs. Grants from National Geographic have helped start the careers of many renowned scientists and explorers. These grants are intended to aid in covering field project costs to help individuals pursue the work for which National Geographic is known.
Tags: National Geographic, projects that, Conservation Trust, Cultures Fund, Expeditions Council, Explorers Grants, Grant proposals
