Deadline: August 19, 2025
Are you working on an overlooked but vital project in conservation technology? The Boring Fund 2025 offers up to $12,500 per project to support essential, behind-the-scenes work that often goes unfunded. Applications are now open and will close on 19 August 2025 at 23:59 BST.
This funding opportunity is specifically tailored for projects that may not appear flashy, but are crucial for the functioning, sustainability, and impact of conservation technologies across the globe.
About The Boring Fund 2025
The Boring Fund 2025 is administered by WILDLABS and is focused on supporting the backbone of conservation tech—those “boring to fund” but necessary projects that typically struggle to secure traditional support. The Fund complements the better-known WILDLABS Awards by targeting components that are essential but often underappreciated.
This initiative is led by:
- Henry Rees – Programme Development Manager at WILDLABS, Fauna & Flora
- Adrien Pajot – Project Manager at WILDLABS, Fauna & Flora
- The WILDLABS Team – Available via @wildlabs
Funding Available
- Up to $12,500 USD per project
- Multiple submissions are allowed but must be entered separately
How to Apply
To apply for The Boring Fund 2025:
- Review The Boring Fund: Terms and Conditions
- Read the Launch Page and Discussion Thread
- Complete the Application Form by 19 August 2025 at 23:59 BST
- A preview of application questions is available on the form page.
Eligibility
Projects must relate to a need in conservation technology, especially the following areas:
Eligible Conservation Technologies
- AI / Machine Learning
- Bioacoustics
- Bio-loggers / Animal Tracking
- Camera Traps
- Data Platforms (e.g., Movebank, Wildlife Insights, Zooniverse)
- GIS and Remote Sensing (LiDAR, thermal, multispectral, satellite)
- eDNA & Genomics
- Mobile Apps & Citizen Science Platforms
- R, Python, and Non-AI Computational Tools
- Networked Sensors
- Protected Area Management Tools (e.g., SMART, EarthRanger)
- UAVs / Drones
Conservation Challenges You Can Tackle
- Biodiversity / Environmental Monitoring
- Captive Breeding
- Citizen Science
- Climate Change & Resilience
- Habitat Loss
- Endangered Species
- Illegal Fishing / IUU
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Invasive Species
- Pollution
- Protected Area Management
- Scientific Research
- Species Protection
- Wildlife Crime / Illegal Trade / Poaching
If your project doesn’t fall under the above lists, you are encouraged to justify its relevance to conservation technology in your proposal.
All geographies and career stages are welcome to apply.
Distinction from WILDLABS Awards
It’s important to understand the difference between The Boring Fund and WILDLABS Awards:
- WILDLABS Awards: Supports innovation, adoption, and scalability of conservation technologies.
- The Boring Fund: Funds the less visible but critical components that ensure the sustainability and functionality of those innovations.
Avoid submitting WILDLABS Awards-style proposals. In 2024, many Boring Fund submissions were deemed ineligible due to this misunderstanding. However, you can submit a Boring Fund proposal that supports essential components of a past or planned WILDLABS Award-style project.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be assessed based on:
- Uniqueness: Is your project a unique fit for The Boring Fund?
- Relevance: Is it clearly connected to the conservation tech sector?
- Quality and Feasibility: Is the application well-written and realistic?
Extra points are given for:
- Applicants underrepresented in the conservation tech field
- Active engagement with the WILDLABS community
Additional Support and Contact
Have questions?
- Post them on the Q&A Thread
- Email: awards@wildlabs.net
Want to support the growth of The Boring Fund? Contact:
Apply Now
Don’t miss your chance to secure up to $12,500 to support your behind-the-scenes conservation technology project. Applications close at 23:59 BST on 19 August 2025.
Need help preparing your proposal?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
