Conservation Grants Fund
The 2024 Conservation Grants Fund application cycle is now closed. All applicants will be notified of funding decisions in early September.
New in 2022!
SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction is AZA's signature conservation brand. AZA is committed to advancing collaborative conservation among its members and helping SAFE species programs meet their goal of saving these animals from extinction. CGF has always supported the cooperative conservation initiatives of its members and beginning with the 2022 grant cycle, CGF funds will be directed only to those projects that advance the objectives of SAFE species programs.
Review the Frequently Asked Questions for more information on eligibility criteria.
Established in 1984, the Conservation Grants Fund (previously called the Conservation Endowment Fund) supports the cooperative conservation, scientific, and educational initiatives of AZA, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, and their collaborators.
Since 1991, the CGF has provided more than $8.5 million to over 450 projects worldwide. This is made possible through the generous donations of members and institutions. AZA extends a special thank you to the Walt Disney World Company and the Disney Conservation Fund, which has provided significant financial support to the CGF since 1995, nearly doubling the number of proposals funded annually.
AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums of all sizes have received CGF grants. Many grants have been awarded to collaborations among AZA-accredited institutions; state, federal and international wildlife agencies; academia; and major conservation NGOs.
Annual disbursement amounts are determined by the AZA Board of Directors. Selections are made on the basis of a competitive review and approximately one-quarter of the proposals received every year are funded. The average project award is approximately $18,500. View the complete list of previously funded projects. Application materials become available in January, and submissions are due in mid-March, and funds are disbursed beginning in October.
Donate now! AZA is a non-profit organization exempt from federal income tax under the provisions of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions to the CGF or any fund of the AZA are tax deductive to the full extent of the law.
Support for Applicants
In addition to the application materials, AZA provides support and assistance to applicants, including answers to Frequently Asked Questions, and tips for writing successful proposals. Read more Information for CGF Applicants and download the application materials to get started.