WCT-Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species Grants Programme (WCT-BEES Grants)

The Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) runs the Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species Grants Programme (WCT-BEES Grants) to support conservation work across India. The initiative offers financial assistance to researchers, conservationists, and organisations engaged in field-level efforts. It operates through two grant categories: the Wildlife Research Small Grant and the Grassroots Conservation Small Grant. Both are designed to fund projects that protect endangered species and critical habitats, while encouraging scientific inquiry and sustainable practices suited to Indian conditions.

The programme recognises that conservation extends beyond direct species and habitat protection. It therefore welcomes projects that address social dimensions, such as nature awareness, environmental education, and sustainable livelihood options for local communities. These elements are treated as essential to lasting conservation outcomes. The WCT-BEES Grants aim to reinforce India’s conservation framework by backing committed individuals and effective organisations.

• Complete the official application form, accessible through the provided Google Forms link.
• Each individual or organisation may submit only one project proposal.
• The proposed project must target endangered species or high-biodiversity landscapes within India.
• The project duration must be capped at 10 months.
• Include contact details for two referees in the form; these referees will be approached directly if your proposal is shortlisted.
• Declare any matching grants or prior funding already secured for the project.
• Indicate explicitly whether the proposal forms part of an ongoing initiative.
• The selection committee will evaluate proposals on their alignment with programme objectives, overall merit, and conservation value.
• Successful grantees will be named by September 30, 2026.

The WCT-BEES Grants programme assigns all grantee selection to a committee constituted specifically for this purpose. Every proposal received is reviewed by this body, which weighs factors such as how well the project matches programme aims, the quality of its scientific approach, and the importance of its conservation targets. The committee's verdict is conclusive and cannot be appealed, guaranteeing a selection procedure that is both equitable and stringent, with an emphasis on meaningful conservation results.

For projects that make the shortlist, the committee may reach out to the referees named in the application to obtain additional perspectives and endorsements.