Education, Research & Policy for Marine Science and Conservation Grants

Supporting innovative projects that advance marine science education, research, and policy

Grant Amount: $1,000–$1,500 USD

About the Program

The challenges facing our oceans demand that we introduce more youth and community members to ocean sciences, educate them on the importance of marine conservation, empower them to engage in scientific inquiry, and support evidence-based policy that protects marine ecosystems worldwide.

These grants support innovative projects in three key areas:

• Education – Early introduction and recruitment into marine science
• Research – Generating new knowledge, tools, and approaches for effective conservation
• Policy – Strengthening the translation of scientific evidence into management and governance

Eligible Activities

Education Projects

• Training students to reduce impacts of human activities on marine organisms and habitats
• Developing educational materials for conservation practices (sustainable fishing, responsible seafood choices)
• Installing rain gardens to teach students about cleaning runoff before it enters oceans
• Installing water bottle filling stations with associated community education
• Engaging students through beach cleanups and conservation events

Research Projects

• Studies on species distribution, habitat use, threats, or ecosystem health
• Creating or testing low-cost monitoring tools, survey protocols, or citizen science methods
• Small-scale studies building scientific capacity and generating locally relevant data
• Analysis of existing datasets or production of knowledge products (research briefs, maps, models)

Policy Projects

• Developing policy briefs or evidence summaries to inform marine conservation governance
• Organizing workshops bringing scientists, policymakers, fishers, and communities together
• Capacity-building on conservation laws, marine protected areas, and fisheries regulations
• Supporting community-driven planning processes grounded in scientific data

Who Can Apply

Applicants must be SCB members and may include educators, researchers, practitioners, Indigenous groups, and K–12 school groups (students must be supervised by an adult). Eligible applicants may be affiliated with:

• K–12 schools
• Colleges/universities
• Community service organizations
• Indigenous organizations

Priority given to applicants demonstrating capacity to complete the work and first-time applicants.

Important Details

• Funds must be spent within 12 months of award
• Progress updates required every six months
• Written final report due at end of 12-month period
• Application Deadline: January 15, 2026, 11:59 PM EST
• Award notifications: 6-8 weeks (early 2026)
• Funds dispersed: Early 2026

Not Eligible

• Travel to conferences or meetings
• Professional membership fees
• Tuition or course fees

Questions? Email scbmarinecomms@gmail.com with ‘MarineGrants2025’ in the subject line

Accessibility: Guidelines available in large print, audio, Braille, or colored background upon request.

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