Deadline: 16 September 2025
Are you a passionate environmental photographer ready to tell powerful, community-based stories of change? The Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grant 2025 is now open for applications! With a total grant pool of $50,000 and a robust mentorship programme, this opportunity is tailored to support both established and emerging photographers documenting solution-based environmental initiatives.
This blog post provides all the key details you need to know to apply for the Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grant 2025, including eligibility, grant categories, deadlines, mentorship benefits, and application links.
About the Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grant 2025
The Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grant 2025 is designed to support photographers working on long-term, in-depth environmental storytelling projects. These stories must spotlight real solutions and community-driven efforts addressing climate change, biodiversity, and wildlife conservation.
The initiative is funded by Vital Impacts, in partnership with world-renowned environmentalists and organisations, to amplify stories that inspire action.
Grant Categories and Awards
A total of $50,000 in funding is available across seven grants:
- 1 x $20,000 for an established photographer
- 6 x $5,000 for emerging photographers
Each $5,000 grant is named in honour of a global environmental champion, including:
- Dr. Sylvia Earle Grant
- Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim Grant
- Ian Lemaiyan Grant
- Chico Mendes Grant
- Madonna Thunder Hawk Grant
- E.O. Wilson Grant
The main $20,000 grant is named the Dr. Jane Goodall Environmental Photography Grant—offering the most extensive funding and visibility.
What the Grant Supports
This grant is specifically geared towards:
- Long-term photographic projects documenting environmental solutions and the communities behind them.
- Locally-rooted photographers working within their own regions or communities.
- Visual storytelling that shifts the narrative from crisis to resilience and innovation.
Grantees will also participate in a 12-month mentorship programme, connecting them with editors, senior photographers, and experts in conservation storytelling.
Mentorship Opportunities
In addition to the financial awards, 10 emerging photographers will be selected for an intensive year-long mentorship programme. Highlights include:
- Monthly one-on-one coaching with industry professionals.
- Story refinement and editorial development.
- Access to a global network of environmental media leaders.
All applicants—regardless of selection—are invited to attend a free online mentorship series, making this an educational opportunity for all.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to photographers worldwide, particularly those working within their own local communities.
- Applicants may submit in English or their native language (translation support available).
- No need for previous publications, but applicants should demonstrate capacity for long-term work.
- Applicants must not be subject to territorial sanctions.
- $25 application fee (fee waivers available for applicants from developing countries).
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 16 September 2025
- Announcement of Winners: October 2025
- Grant Period: 12 months
How to Apply
Ready to tell your story?
👉 Click here to apply for the grant
👉 Read more about the programme
Ensure your proposal reflects a strong understanding of your subject, includes local collaboration, and aligns with the grant’s theme of solutions-based environmental storytelling.
Final Notes
The Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grant 2025 is more than just a funding opportunity—it is a call to amplify stories of hope, resilience, and ecological innovation through the lens of community storytellers.
If you need assistance drafting, refining, or reviewing your grant proposal, contact grantsdatabase.org for expert support.
