Every year, we receive applications from inspiring conservationists from every corner of the globe, leaders making significant strides to protect wildlife, restore ecosystems, and support communities.
Competition is strong, but a successful application is not about having the largest organisation or the perfect English. It’s about presenting a clear, compelling conservation project and demonstrating the leadership needed to deliver lasting impact.
To help you put forward the strongest possible application, we’ve compiled some top tips from our grants team, along with answers to some of the questions we hear most often.
Top tips from the WFN team
1. Don’t Fall at the First Hurdle
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only applications that meet all eligibility and submission requirements are considered.
Before submitting, make sure that you:
- Use the official WFN templates provided.
- Complete all sections of the application form.
- Submit your application in English.
- Include all three required reference letters.
- Request exactly £50,000 in funding.
- Ensure your project fits WFN’s funding criteria and focus.
Applications that do not meet these basic requirements cannot progress to the next stage, so it’s worth doing a final check before you submit.
2. Make the most of the ‘Profile Boost’ section
A Whitley Award offers far more than just funding. Winners become part of a global network of conservation leaders and gain international visibility through WFN’s communications and media support.
When completing the profile boost section, think carefully about how greater recognition could help you achieve your goals. Could it strengthen partnerships, influence policy, or raise awareness of an overlooked issue?This is your opportunity to show us that you’re ready to make the most of the platform a Whitley Award provides.
3. Don’t worry about perfect English
For many of our applicants, English is a second or third language. We understand this and do not expect flawless grammar.
We’re much more interested in your conservation vision, leadership, local knowledge, and the strength of your project. Focus on communicating your ideas clearly and authentically rather than striving for perfection.
4. Keep your objectives SMART
Strong applications have objectives that are:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
Your objectives should be consistent throughout the application and clearly linked to your activities, outcomes, indicators, and budget. If all these elements align, it becomes much easier for reviewers to understand how your project will deliver impact.
5. Bring baseline data
Evidence matters. Applications are strongest when they include baseline data that demonstrates the urgency of the conservation challenge and provides a clear starting point against which success can be measured.
Whether you’re tracking species populations, habitat loss, or community engagement, showing where things stand today helps demonstrate the significance of the change you hope to achieve.
6. Champion your team and community
While the Whitley Award recognises individual conservation leaders, we know that conservation success is never achieved in isolation.
We want to see leaders who empower their teams, build partnerships with other leaders, and work closely with local communities. Be sure to highlight the people behind your project and explain how communities are involved in shaping and delivering your work.
Take a look at our ‘How to’ video for more tips on how to complete your application:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use AI tools to write my application?
We recognise that AI can be a useful tool, particularly for those balancing demanding fieldwork with fundraising and reporting responsibilities.
However, all concepts, ideas and activities within the application must be generated by you, your team or stakeholders and reflect reality. Please do not submit content heavily reliant on AI as this will be picked up in our screening process. We have a team of real people who review grant applications and a review system that helps ensure authenticity.
Is my organisation eligible?
WFN accepts applications from individuals who have a formal agreement with the organisation they are working with. The organisation must be a locally incorporated NGO, not-for-profit or university whose mission is the protection and conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems.
Please refer to our eligibility requirements for further information.
Is my country eligible? Am I eligible to apply?
Please consult our list of eligible countries before applying.
In general, we fund nationals working in the country where their project is based. In exceptional circumstances, we may consider non-nationals with long-term residency and a demonstrated commitment to the country or region.
My project is not species-focused. Is that okay?
Absolutely.
While many Whitley Award-winning projects involve flagship or umbrella species, WFN takes a broader view of conservation impact. We are equally interested in projects that deliver positive outcomes at the ecosystem, landscape or seascape level.
Read more FAQsReady to Apply?
If you’ve reviewed our application guidelines, confirmed your eligibility and are ready to share your project, we’d love to hear from you.
Start your Whitley Award application today and join a global network of conservation leaders driving lasting change for wildlife, habitats and people.
Apply for a Whitley Award
