Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund

Posted by on September 1, 2008

Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund Invites Proposals for Annual Awards Program

Deadline: January 21, 2009

The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (http://disneyconservation.com), formerly the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund, is a global awards program funded by Walt Disney World and Disney resort guests to support the study and protection of the world’s wildlife and ecosystems. The fund provides annual awards to U.S. non-profit conservation organizations working alongside their peers in other countries. Many of the recipient organizations concentrate their activities on “biological hotspots” — areas rich in plant and animal life at risk of imminent destruction.

Grant proposals should be cooperative in nature and may have matching funds; clearly contribute to the conservation of endangered or threatened species and their habitats; and build on previous work, including an established commitment to a conservation program or is well suited to become or contribute to a long-term conservation program. The fund gives priority consideration to holistic programs addressing a significant conservation need (or projects that are part of a program) which reflect education and community engagement, including measuring results; influencing decision makers; and solid field science. The DWCF funds programs and projects around the world, including North America, Africa, Asia, South America, and marine environments.

Applicant organizations must have U.S. 501(C)(3)  nonprofit status. Nongovermental organizations outside the United States can apply in partnership with a U.S. organization.

Requests of $20,000 or less are allowed but the overall budget may be larger and incorporate several financial partners.

Application is by invitation only. A letter or e-mail of inquiry is required for consideration. The fund recommends that potential applicants submit their letter or email of inquiry no later than January 1, 2009, for an invitation to apply.

The fund also offers emergency funding through its Rapid Response Fund in times of environmental or conservation crisis or need. These awards range up to a maximum of $5,000 each and can be applied for throughout the year.

See the DWCF Web site for complete information on the annual grants program and the Rapid Response Fund, as well as examples of funded programs.

RFP Link: http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15014823/conservation

For additional RFPs in Environment, visit: http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_environment.jhtml