Special Wildlife Funds Grant Programs
The Special Wildlife Funds Grant Programs from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources support scientific research and habitat conservation projects benefiting Illinois wildlife and ecosystems.
Funder: Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Migratory Waterfowl/Duck Stamp) | May 2027 (State Furbearer Fund) | June 2027 (Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship) | July 2027 (Wildlife Preservation Fund - Rehab Facilities) | August 2027 (Illinois Habitat Fund, State Pheasant Fund)
Funding Amounts: Typical grants range from ~$2,000 to $100,000+ depending on fund; one-year projects; reimbursement basis.
Summary: Supports habitat protection, enhancement, and conservation research in Illinois via state special wildlife funds.
Key Information: All deadlines are projected—confirm with program page before applying.
Description
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) administers a suite of Special Wildlife Funds Grant Programs to support projects that protect, acquire, enhance, or manage wildlife habitats throughout Illinois. These programs are funded by the sale of Habitat Stamps and Migratory Waterfowl Stamps, and include the Illinois Habitat Fund, State Pheasant Fund, State Furbearer Fund, Migratory Waterfowl Stamp Fund, Illinois Wildlife Preservation Fund (including species rehab facilities grants), and Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship grants (for land trusts). Funding may also support limited research and educational initiatives that promote conservation goals.
