The Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) Small Grants 2025 is now accepting applications from early-career professionals working on innovative marine conservation projects. This opportunity is ideal for scientists, educators, and local conservation leaders focusing on sharks, rays, and other chondrichthyan species. With funding support of up to $5,000 for short-term projects, this grant offers a powerful springboard for those launching meaningful local initiatives.
About the SOSF Small Grants 2025
The Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) Small Grants 2025 supports early-stage, proof-of-concept projects in marine conservation, with a focus on chondrichthyan species—sharks, rays, skates, sawfishes, and chimaeras. Each selected project will receive up to USD 5,000 in funding to be implemented over 12 to 18 months.
Projects must be led by early-career professionals—defined as those within five years of completing their most recent academic degree—and must demonstrate a strong local impact and leadership component.
Key Grant Details
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Grant Size | Up to $5,000 |
| Project Duration | 12–18 months |
| Focus Area | Marine conservation (chondrichthyan species) |
| Eligibility | Early-career professionals, local leaders |
| Application Deadline | June 28, 2025, 18:00 CET |
| Stage II Deadline | August 2025 (by invitation only) |
| Funding Timeline | March 2026 – August 2027 |
Who Should Apply?
The grant is tailored to:
- Scientists and educators launching local marine conservation efforts.
- Individuals within 5 years post-degree in a relevant field.
- Applicants leading community-based or location-specific projects that focus on sharks, rays, or skates.
SOSF prioritizes local ownership, proof-of-concept testing, and scoping projects with potential for future expansion.
How to Apply
The application process consists of two phases:
Stage I (Initial Application)
Submit a short online form outlining your project.
🔗 Click here to apply now
Deadline: June 28, 2025, at 18:00 CET
Stage II (Full Proposal)
Applicants who pass Stage I will be invited to submit a full proposal (~10 pages) in August 2025. This includes:
- Detailed methodology
- Budget justification
- Team composition
- Expected outcomes and public outreach plans
🔗 Read more about the programme here
Only one application per person is allowed per year. Successful applicants may receive up to two Small Grants during their career but are ineligible to apply again the following year.
🛠️ Expert Tips for a Winning Application
“Projects that stand out usually combine a well-defined conservation goal with clear local engagement and a plan to communicate results. Reviewers want to see how your work benefits both science and community.”
— GrantsDatabase.org Proposal Review Team
Here are a few key preparation tips from the Grant Database team:
- Be specific: Outline the exact species, location, and problem your project addresses.
- Simplify your scope: Focus on what can realistically be achieved with $5,000 in 12–18 months.
- Include measurable outcomes: Identify what success looks like and how you’ll track it.
- Avoid banned items: Expenses like satellite tags or unapproved travel will disqualify your budget.
- Demonstrate communication skills: SOSF expects outreach activities such as blog posts, videos, or local presentations.
Need help crafting a winning application?
📩 Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
Final Thoughts
If you’re an early-career conservationist with a strong local focus and a passion for protecting sharks, rays, or similar marine species, the Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) Small Grants 2025 offers the ideal launchpad. With the June 28 deadline approaching fast, now is the time to prepare and submit your application.
