Challenge Grants

Wild Animal Initiative’s Challenge Grants aim to catalyze essential research in wild animal welfare by funding high-priority, underexplored areas often overlooked by traditional funders. As part of the organization's broader mission to improve the lives of wild animals, these grants serve as a flagship funding mechanism targeting experienced principal investigators conducting novel and methodologically sound studies. Applicants are encouraged to explore themes such as welfare indicator validation, interspecific interactions, and juvenile or invertebrate welfare, among others that directly relate to the subjective experiences of wild animals. The grant provides between $50,000 and $100,000 in total funding, with projects allowed to span up to five years. Funding is primarily intended for direct research expenses such as materials and supplies. However, other costs—including salaries, stipends, and capital equipment—may be supported if thoroughly justified. The program does not fund indirect costs, institutional overhead, or visa sponsorships. Additionally, projects located in or involving residents from countries under U.S. sanctions, such as Iran, Russia, or North Korea, are not eligible. To apply, researchers must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Eligible applicants include those affiliated with universities, research institutions, or government agencies, with projects led by a principal investigator and involving collaborators who reside in the countries where fieldwork will be conducted. NGOs managing projects must be registered in the same country where research is to take place. Projects can be standalone or extend existing efforts not previously funded by Wild Animal Initiative. Researchers may also opt to be considered for a Wild Animal Initiative Fellowship, which provides mentorship and a stipend to early-career researchers. The selection process includes multiple rounds of internal and external peer review. Proposals are evaluated based on scope, feasibility, potential impact, ethical considerations, cost-effectiveness, and relevance to Wild Animal Initiative's research priorities. Projects causing harm to animals are strongly discouraged, and the use of distressing methods must be fully justified with evidence. Proposals must address multiple welfare domains and outline all team roles, resources, and time commitments. The current call for proposals requires EOIs to be submitted by November 14, 2025. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit full proposals. Final decisions are typically made within six months of the EOI deadline, with results communicated via email and posted on the Wild Animal Initiative website. Selected grantees must sign a communications agreement and provide annual and final reports on project progress and outcomes. Applicants are encouraged to contact Wild Animal Initiative at any stage for feedback or clarification at [email protected].

Projects must align with wild animal welfare priorities; proposals should justify methods, avoid harm, and be cost-effective.