2026 Request for Joint Research Proposals: The Nature Conservancy & Cornell Atkinson
Supports collaborative Cornell-TNC research or workshops advancing actionable, policy-relevant environmental science with a focus on real-world sustainability impact.
Funder: Cornell University
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2026 (Expression of Interest) | September 2026 (LOI) | November 2026 (Full Proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $110,000 for one year; most awards $60,000–$90,000; up to $10,000 for TNC included.
Summary: Supports joint Cornell-TNC research or workshops with actionable, policy-relevant environmental impact.
Key Information: Requires meaningful collaboration between Cornell and The Nature Conservancy; Cornell PI must be a Faculty Fellow.
Description
This grant supports collaborative research or workshops jointly led by Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), with an emphasis on projects that deliver actionable, policy-relevant outcomes addressing critical environmental and sustainability challenges. Proposals must demonstrate robust collaboration between Cornell University and TNC, with a clear plan for impact, advancing research, influencing policy, or delivering tangible environmental results. Both basic and applied research are eligible, provided there is a defined pathway to real-world impact. Priority is given to projects aligned with the organizations' research themes, such as environmental justice, but high-quality proposals outside these areas will also be considered if they show strong organizational commitment and a compelling theory of change.
