WCT-Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species Grants Programme (WCT-BEES Grants)
By Wildlife Conservation Trust
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Quick Answer
The WCT-BEES Grants Programme provides small grants up to ₹3.5 lakh to Indian researchers, conservationists, and organizations for critical conservation research and grassroots projects focused on endangered species and biodiversity in India.
- Funding amount
- ₹3L – ₹3.5L
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Wildlife Conservation Trust
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 20 July 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by Wildlife Conservation Trust. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this grant
The Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) established the Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Endangered Species Grants Programme (WCT-BEES Grants) to bolster crucial conservation efforts across India. This initiative is designed to empower promising researchers, dedicated conservationists, and conservation organizations by providing them with financial support for their on-ground work. The program addresses pressing conservation issues through two distinct grant types: the Wildlife Research Small Grant and the Grassroots Conservation Small Grant. Both are specifically tailored to fund projects focused on the protection of endangered species and critical habitats, promoting sustainable practices and scientific inquiry within the Indian context. WCT recognizes the multifaceted nature of conservation, encouraging projects that not only focus on direct species and habitat protection but also incorporate social dimensions. This includes initiatives centered on nature awareness, environmental education, and fostering sustainable livelihood options for local communities, acknowledging these as vital components for achieving long-term conservation success. The overarching goal of the WCT-BEES Grants is to strengthen India's conservation landscape by nurturing dedicated individuals and impactful organizations.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
The Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) is a non-governmental organisation set up as a public charitable trust in Mumbai in 2002. It works in and around Protected Areas across India, and it funds small grants for conservation research and grassroots projects through its WCT-BEES…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹3L – ₹3.5L
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The WCT-BEES Grants Programme provides critical financial aid ranging from ₹3,00,000 to ₹3,50,000 per grantee. This funding is dedicated to supporting essential wildlife research and grassroots conservation projects across India. Beyond direct financial support, the program offers the opportunity to purchase essential fieldwork equipment (e.g., GPS, rangefinders) on a case-by-case basis. Grantees also benefit from the WCT's network and recognition, helping to amplify their conservation efforts and connect them with a broader community committed to protecting India's biodiversity. The support aims to enable tangible, outcome-driven conservation actions, fostering a collaborative environment for impactful conservation work.
- Duration
- 10 months
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection of grantees is exclusively handled by a dedicated selection committee appointed under the WCT-BEES Grants programme. This committee meticulously appraises all submitted proposals. Evaluation criteria include the project's alignment with the programme's objectives, its scientific merit, and the significance of its conservation goals. The committee's decisions are final and binding, ensuring a fair and rigorous selection process focused on impactful conservation outcomes. Shortlisted projects may involve direct contact with provided referees to gather further insights and recommendations.
Application Process
- 1
Submit Application
Complete and submit the online application form with project details and referee information.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum grant amount?
Small grants under the WCT-BEES Grants Programme will range from Rs. 3,00,000/- to 3,50,000/- per grantee.
What kinds of projects are eligible for WCT-BEES Grants?
The programme will support research and conservation work on endangered species and/or landscapes of exceptional biodiversity value. Projects with conservation as a core component, and those that encompass building evidence-based policy recommendations in their plans, will be preferred.
What is the expected duration of the project?
Projects pitched to WCT cannot exceed a duration of 10 months.
Does the grant allow for a stipend/salary/per diem for the staff?
A nominal stipend may be included as part of the proposal. The grant is intended to further on-ground conservation, and a large salary/stipend component may be counterproductive to the overall evaluation of the project.
Can I apply if I have previously benefited from WCT's small grants programme?
Yes, if the project under the earlier received grant is complete, you may apply.
Who is eligible?
Both individuals and organisations are eligible to apply. The principal investigator/project lead of the proposed project will be considered as the 'applicant' when more than one individual is involved in the project or in the case of an organisation.
What is the required educational qualification?
The applicant needs to hold at least a graduate degree from a recognised university.
I am an individual applicant. Am I eligible to apply if I am not an Indian citizen?
No, only Indian citizens may apply.
Am I eligible to apply if my organisation is not registered in India?
No, only organisations with a valid registration certificate for operations in India may apply.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the WCT-BEES Grants Programme is July 20, 2026 (23:59 IST). Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
When can I expect to receive a decision on my application?
The results will be announced on or before September 30, 2026, on the WCT website and social media.
Whom can I contact for more information on WCT-BEES Grants?
Don't hesitate to get in touch with the programme team at smallgrants@wctindia.org.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
