The Wild Waters Fund supports projects that conserve wild fisheries, protect freshwater and saltwater ecosystems, strengthen communities, and inspire the next generation of anglers and guides. If your organization or initiative aligns with these goals, we encourage you to apply.

Our goal is to fund projects that create lasting impact for both ecosystems and the people connected to them.

Who Can Apply

• Non-profit organizations, registered charities, or community-led initiatives.

• Projects demonstrating measurable impact in conservation, education, or community stewardship.

• Initiatives focused on freshwater or saltwater ecosystems directly connected to wild angling.

Grant Categories

Collaborative Impact
Partner with other organizations or foundations to deliver targeted conservation and community projects, leveraging collective resources for maximum effect. Matching funding up to US$2,500 for 2026.

Hands-On Stewardship
Engage volunteers, guides, and community members directly through education, fieldwork, or skills-building projects that foster stewardship and conservation ethics. Matching funding up to US$2,500 for 2026.

Rapid Response & Innovation
Support for urgent, short-term needs or innovative approaches that protect vulnerable ecosystems or pilot new conservation strategies. Talk to us about funding up to US$5,000 under urgency.

Proposal Guidelines

To submit a successful proposal, please include the following:

1. Project Overview – Concise description of your project, its goals, and expected outcomes.

2. Alignment with Core Areas – Specify which of the Fund’s focus areas your project addresses:

   • Protecting Wild Fisheries

   • Responsible Access & Protection

   • Strengthening Communities

   • Inspiring the Next Generation

3. Impact Metrics – Outline how success will be measured, including timelines, beneficiaries, and expected results.

4. Budget & Funding Request – Provide a detailed budget, including the amount requested from The Wild Waters Fund and other sources of support.

5. Organizational Background – Include your organization’s experience, capacity, and relevant achievements.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals are evaluated on:

• Alignment with the Fund’s mission and focus areas.

• Measurable community and environmental impact.

• Feasibility, sustainability, and clear deliverables.

• Organizational capacity to execute the project effectively.

• Innovation and responsiveness to emerging conservation needs.

Submission Process

1. Review the grant categories and proposal guidelines.

2. Prepare your application with all required sections in line with our annual funding cycle.

3. Submit your proposal via email to admin@wildwatersfund.org by March 31 annually

4. The Fund will review applications, and seek further information or notify applicants of decisions before May 15 each year.

What We Do Not Fund

To ensure resources are directed effectively, the Fund typically does not provide support for:

• General operating expenses unrelated to conservation or community impact.

• For-profit businesses or commercial ventures.

• Political campaigns or lobbying activities.

• Projects outside fisheries, aquatic ecosystems, or communities connected to wild waters.

• Initiatives without clear, measurable outcomes or sustainability plans.

Questions?

For guidance on eligibility or the application process, please contact us at admin@wildwatersfund.org.