Developing Future Ocean Stewards
This grant funds community-driven, immersive educational and research projects that foster meaningful connections to the ocean and advance ocean literacy through innovative, locally relevant approaches.
Funder: National Geographic Society
Due Dates: June 24, 2026 (Full application deadline, 11:59 PM EDT)
Funding Amounts: Level I: up to $20,000 (1 year) | Level II: up to $100,000 (2 years; typical $50,000–$65,000)
Summary: Funds community-driven projects that deepen emotional and educational connections to the ocean through immersive, culturally relevant learning experiences.
Key Information: Applicants must apply as individuals (not organizations) and have relevant education experience; projects must select "Education" as the primary discipline and "Ocean" as the primary focus area.
Description
This grant opportunity from the National Geographic Society supports projects that advance ocean literacy and stewardship by fostering strong emotional and educational connections to the ocean, especially through community-based, immersive learning experiences. The call prioritizes projects that address socioeconomic, psychological, cultural, and physical barriers to ocean connection, and encourages transdisciplinary approaches that blend natural and social sciences, such as storytelling, local knowledge, and design. Projects should be designed with and for local communities, reflect their needs and realities, and can include both innovative educational pilots and research that measures the effectiveness of educational approaches. Awardees join the National Geographic Explorer community and participate in a cohort experience with networking and learning opportunities.
