Alaska Conservation Rapid Response Grants

Alaska Conservation Foundation’s Rapid Response grant program provides strategic funding to support direct conservation advocacy in response to urgent or unforeseen environmental opportunities and threats in Alaska. Designed to catalyze rapid intervention, the program aims to promote long-term improvements in environmental policy and conservation outcomes. It is structured to accommodate time-sensitive needs with a swift review and response cycle, allowing applicants to act quickly and decisively. The program awards grants of up to $15,000 on a rolling basis, offering applicants the flexibility to submit proposals at any time via the foundation’s online application portal. Applications are reviewed promptly, with final decisions typically issued within 12 business days. Applicants are encouraged to consult with Alaska Conservation Foundation (ACF) staff in advance of submission to confirm their project's eligibility. All awarded projects must submit a final report through the foundation’s reporting template at the conclusion of the grant term. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit or equivalent organizations actively engaged in conservation advocacy. They must either be based in Alaska or operate Alaska-based programs. Preference is given to proposals with clearly defined timelines and an expected decision point, reflecting the program’s focus on time-critical initiatives. Organizations that are current grantees of ACF must also be in good standing with all required reporting. Funding may be used for a variety of project-related expenses directly tied to advocacy outcomes, including legal support, grassroots organizing, communications and outreach, meetings with decision-makers, technical and scientific support, travel, contract services, and up to a 15% administrative fee. However, the grant does not cover operating expenses such as existing staff salaries, educational programs or scholarships, capital expenses, equipment, land acquisition, conference fees, or projects outside of Alaska. The grant program prioritizes projects that aim to reduce environmentally harmful activities, influence or create favorable environmental policy, enhance policy enforcement, or promote sustainable development. The initiative underscores ACF’s commitment to fostering an environmental advocacy landscape that is proactive, responsive, and rooted in Alaskan conservation priorities.

Contact ACF before applying to confirm eligibility; preference for proposals with clearly defined timelines and decision points.