The Explorers Club Impact Grants offer US$10,000–US$25,000 for scientific field expeditions, conservation and exploration projects. Applicants aged 21 and older can apply through rolling assessment rounds.
Background & Grant Description
The Explorers Club is inviting applications for its Impact Grants Programme, which supports researchers and explorers conducting field-based scientific research, conservation and exploration projects around the world.
Awards typically range from US$10,000 to US$25,000. The programme supports projects that generate new knowledge about the planet, its wildlife, ecosystems and human communities, including regions experiencing significant environmental or cultural change.
Eligible projects may cover biological sciences, archaeology, anthropology, palaeontology, earth sciences, ecology and astronomy. Exploratory projects that combine scientific objectives with compelling storytelling are also encouraged.
Applications are open on a rolling basis, with reviews taking place during spring and autumn. The Explorers Club recommends submitting an application at least six months before the planned expedition.
Grant Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Grant provider | The Explorers Club |
| Funding programme | Explorers Club Impact Grants |
| Typical award | US$10,000–US$25,000 |
| Eligible applicants | Individuals aged 21 and older |
| Eligible disciplines | Biological sciences, archaeology, anthropology, palaeontology, earth sciences, ecology, astronomy and other relevant exploration fields |
| Project type | Primarily field-based scientific research and exploration |
| Geographic scope | International, subject to programme restrictions |
| Application status | Open with rolling assessments |
| Assessment dates listed | 19 November 2026, 31 March 2027 and 30 September 2027 |
| Official application | Explorers Club Impact Grants |
Eligible Projects and Grant Benefits
The Impact Grants programme helps researchers and explorers carry out expeditions that contribute to scientific understanding, conservation and knowledge of the world’s natural and cultural environments.
Projects may investigate wildlife conservation, marine ecosystems, glaciers, archaeology, biodiversity, climate-related changes and other areas of scientific exploration.
The Explorers Club has previously supported projects involving endangered species, glacier research, archaeological discoveries, marine conservation and the documentation of climate-driven changes affecting communities.
Applicants should demonstrate that their projects have clear objectives, sound methodologies, achievable outcomes and a compelling story that can be communicated to a wider audience.
Although laboratory work may form part of a project, the grant primarily supports activities based on field expeditions. Projects focused solely on extreme sports or physical challenges are not considered.
What the Grant Covers
Applicants must submit a detailed project budget using the prescribed template. The budget should explain the costs necessary to carry out the proposed expedition.
Grant funds cannot be used to pay salaries to the applicant or their team members. Reasonable fees for local guides, assistants and specialist services may be included where appropriate. Business-class airfare is also excluded from eligible expenditure.
Qualifications and Eligibility
Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Membership of The Explorers Club is not required.
Projects should primarily involve fieldwork in a relevant scientific discipline or exploration activity that contributes new knowledge about the planet and its inhabitants.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate their ability to lead the proposed project, explain its scientific or exploratory significance and show how the work can be completed safely and effectively.
A local collaborator is strongly encouraged and must be included in the application materials specified by the programme.
Important restriction: The Explorers Club states that it cannot consider research proposals for work conducted in China or proposals submitted by Chinese citizens. Applicants should review the official programme guidelines for the full restrictions and conditions.
Additional Information
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The programme information lists assessment deadlines of 19 November 2026, 31 March 2027 and 30 September 2027, with subsequent dates to be confirmed. Applicants should check the official website for updates before submitting.
The organisation recommends applying at least six months before the planned expedition because the review process can take a minimum of two to three months.
Required Application Materials
Applicants should prepare the following:
- A concise project title and a non-technical abstract of no more than 200 words.
- Proposed expedition start and end dates.
- A one- to two-page project description outlining objectives and methodologies.
- A detailed budget using the official template.
- The applicant’s CV and CVs or relevant background information for team members.
- A three-minute video statement in which the applicant appears on screen.
- Two recommendation letters from people familiar with the applicant and proposed project.
- Information about required permits or their application status.
- Relevant maps, photographs and other supporting materials.
- The applicant’s website and social media details.
The planned fieldwork period must not exceed 12 months. Follow-up laboratory work and scientific publication may continue beyond that fieldwork period.
How to apply: Visit the official Explorers Club Impact Grants page, read the application guidelines carefully and complete the online application. The programme advises applicants to allow at least two hours to complete and review the form. Information may not be saved if the browser is closed before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much funding do Explorers Club Impact Grants provide?
Awards typically range from US$10,000 to US$25,000, depending on the approved project and its proposed budget.
2. Who can apply for the Impact Grants?
Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have a qualifying field-based scientific or exploration project. Membership of The Explorers Club is not required.
3. Which research fields are eligible?
Relevant areas include biological sciences, archaeology, anthropology, palaeontology, earth sciences, ecology and astronomy, alongside other exploratory projects that generate new knowledge.
4. Are the grants available internationally?
The programme considers projects from around the world, subject to its eligibility rules and restrictions. The organisation states that it cannot consider research proposals for work conducted in China or proposals submitted by Chinese citizens.
5. Is there a fixed application deadline?
Applications are described as open with rolling assessments. The programme lists assessment dates of 19 November 2026, 31 March 2027 and 30 September 2027, with subsequent dates to be confirmed.
6. How long can the proposed fieldwork last?
The proposed fieldwork period must not exceed 12 months. Follow-up laboratory work and scientific publication are not included in this limit.
7. What documents are required?
Applicants need a project abstract, detailed description, budget, CVs, a short video statement, two recommendation letters, permit information and relevant supporting materials.
8. Can the grant pay the applicant’s salary?
No. Grant funds cannot cover salaries for the applicant or team members. Reasonable fees for local guides, assistants and specialist services may be included in the budget.
9. When should I apply?
The Explorers Club recommends applying at least six months before the planned expedition to allow time for assessment and preparation.
10. Where can I submit an application?
Applications are submitted through the official Explorers Club Impact Grants website.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
The Explorers Club Impact Grants may interest scientists, conservation researchers, anthropologists, archaeologists and explorers seeking financial support for field-based projects. The typical award of US$10,000–US$25,000 can support qualifying expedition expenses, while the programme places particular importance on clear research objectives, feasible methodologies, meaningful impact and strong storytelling.
Potential applicants should carefully review the eligible expenses, project duration, permit requirements and submission guidelines before preparing their applications.
Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares funding and research opportunities for informational purposes. It is not affiliated with The Explorers Club and does not administer the grant programme. Applicants should verify eligibility, assessment dates and all funding conditions through the official website.
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