The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) offers an annual funding program to support projects that align with its mission to recover and conserve grizzly bear populations and habitats in the western United States. The program emphasizes interagency collaboration in policy, planning, management, research, and communication to increase human safety and reduce the potential for bear-human conflicts.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, associations, cities, counties, and government agencies at the state, federal, or tribal level operating within or near IGBC ecosystem zones in the U.S. All proposals must directly support grizzly bear conservation and fall into one or more of the following project categories: staffing, infrastructure (e.g., bear-resistant containers, electric fencing), or education and outreach (e.g., bear spray training, informational materials). Proposals must be fully completed and submitted by close of business on October 27, 2025.
Projects that involve interagency partnerships, leverage other funding sources, span multiple ecosystems, or present innovative approaches are strongly encouraged. A total of $43,000 is anticipated to be available for the FY2026 grant cycle, though the final funding amount may depend on agency budgets. Awards will be announced at the IGBC Winter Meeting in December 2025.
All grantees must submit an interim progress report by June 13, 2026, and a final report by October 1, 2026. Future funding eligibility is contingent upon timely and complete reporting. Proposals and inquiries should be directed to Lori Roberts, IGBC IEO Chair, at lroberts@mt.gov or 406-751-4581. The official proposal form and detailed submission criteria are available on the IGBC website.
Include interagency partners; ensure project spans multiple ecosystems if possible; highlight innovation or new partnerships; ensure prior reports are submitted to remain eligible.
