WDFW accepting applications for 2025-2027 wildlife diversity grant funding

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is accepting grant applications beginning Nov. 1 for up to $400,000 in funding for projects designed to benefit some of Washington’s most imperiled wildlife. Grant proposals are due Jan. 19, 2025.  

“WDFW’s Wildlife Diversity Grant Program is an impactful program to benefit and equip our conservation partners advance recovery actions for a suite of at-risk species in Washington,” said Jenna Judge, WDFW assistant wildlife diversity division manager. “We’re excited to announce the second round of funding for this program, to continue to expand our collaborative partnerships to implement recovery actions for Washington wildlife and gather necessary data to inform land use and habitat management decisions.” 

WDFW has approximately $2 million in wildlife diversity grant funding to award for the 2025-2027 biennium and anticipates supporting ten to 15 projects by awarding a minimum of $40,000 and a maximum of $400,000 per project. 

Applicants who are affiliated with public, non-profit, academic, or tribal entities are eligible to submit proposals. Project work must occur between July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027. Interested applicants can find more information about the grant opportunity, project eligibility requirements, and steps to apply on the WDFW website.  

The Department is hosting a virtual information session on November 13 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. to provide an overview of this biennium’s grant opportunity and answer questions from prospective applicants. Pre-registration is required to receive a link to the information session. 

WDFW will review and evaluate submitted grant proposals in Spring 2025 and notify applicants of a decision regarding their proposal in May 2025.  

Funding for the Wildlife Diversity Grant program comes from a significant investment by the state legislature to restore and protect biodiversity in Washington, and the Department expects this funding to be available in future biennia to continue this grant program. 

“By increasing the scope and scale of conservation actions, we can work toward recovering imperiled wildlife and may prevent new species listings,” said Hannah Anderson, WDFW wildlife diversity division manager. “Through this grant program, we’re excited to fund even more actions that will help stem the tide of biodiversity loss and contribute to healthier fish and wildlife populations.”     

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.