Wild Animal Initiative Launches 2025 Challenge Grants for Pioneering Wildlife Welfare Research

The Wild Animal Initiative has officially opened applications for its 2025 Challenge Grants. These grants fund groundbreaking research aimed at improving the welfare of wild animals. The submission deadline for expressions of interest is November 14, 2025.

This flagship program targets experienced researchers tackling high-priority questions often overlooked by other funders. According to Reuters, such specialized funding is crucial for advancing new scientific frontiers.

Substantial Funding for High-Impact Research Projects

Each selected project will receive between $50,000 and $100,000 in direct funding. The grants are designed to support work that demonstrates significant novelty and methodological rigor. The initiative prioritizes direct research costs like supplies and materials.

Eligible projects can be standalone or add a welfare component to existing, externally-funded research. This flexibility allows scientists to broaden their study’s scope. The principal investigator must be affiliated with a recognized research institution.

Eligibility and Global Collaboration Requirements

The grants are open to principal investigators from universities and government agencies. A key requirement involves collaboration with local researchers in countries where fieldwork occurs. Projects must include residents of those nations as collaborators.

This ensures research is conducted with local context and expertise. The initiative also offers fellowship opportunities for early-career researchers. This provides mentorship and supplementary stipends for PhD students and postdoctoral scholars.

The 2025 Wild Animal Initiative Challenge Grants represent a significant investment in understanding wild animal wellbeing. This funding aims to unlock novel research pathways with real-world impact. The initiative continues to prioritize high-relevance studies that other programs may overlook.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the application deadline for the Challenge Grants?

Expressions of interest for the 2025 funding cycle are due on November 14, 2025. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit a full project proposal.

Who is eligible to lead a Challenge Grant project?

Projects must be led by an experienced principal investigator affiliated with a university or research institution. Collaborators must include residents from all countries where fieldwork is conducted.

What types of costs does the grant funding cover?

The funding primarily covers direct research costs like supplies and materials. Salaries and capital equipment may also be funded if they are fully justified for the project’s goals.

Can the grant be used to expand an existing research project?

Yes, the grants can fund standalone projects or add a wild animal welfare component to an existing, non-WAI funded study. This helps broaden the scope of ongoing research.

Are there opportunities for early-career researchers?

Yes, applicants can request consideration for a WAI Fellowship. This provides mentorship and a supplementary stipend for postdoctoral researchers and PhD students.

Trusted Sources

Information in this article was cross-referenced with reporting from Reuters.