The Green Institute Sustainability Impact Grant supports pioneering research, innovative solutions, and community-driven environmental projects worldwide. Focused on advancing sustainability science and ecological resilience, this grant funds high-impact initiatives that drive real change. Through our exclusive member-only grants, we invest in projects shaping a greener future. Learn more about our grants and how to apply.


OBJECTIVES

 
  • Projects must have a clear sustainability impact, integrating environmental science, social justice, or policy-driven goals.

  • Proposals should demonstrate how they will contribute to global sustainability knowledge, technology, or practice.

  • Open to all researchers and practitioners, with a special emphasis on supporting early-career sustainability professionals (first five years post-PhD).

  • Funding is available for novel approaches in well-studied areas or established methodologies applied in new contexts.


FUNDING DETAILS

  • $5,000

    • Round 1: Applications open in January and close in March. Applicants will be notified in late May. Projects must start between early June and early December of the same year.

    • Round 2: Applications open in June and close in September. Applicants will be notified in late November. Projects must start between early December and early June of the following year.

  • Open globally to researchers, professionals, and organizations working in sustainability fields.

  • Maximum of 12 months

 
 

Eligibility & Conditions

 
  • Grants are awarded to individuals, not institutions.

  • The project should be a unique, independent initiative and not part of an already-funded study.

  • Projects can be conducted anywhere in the world. If working internationally, applicants must demonstrate local collaborations with organizations, agencies, or communities.

  • Applicants within five years of completing their PhD are encouraged to apply. Career breaks (parental leave, illness, caregiving) are considered.

  • Funding can be used for:

    • Fieldwork expenses and research consumables

    • Short-term research assistance (up to 11 months)

    • Travel for field research (justified in budget)

    • Small essential equipment (max. $2,000 per item)

    • Community engagement and sustainability education initiatives

    • Conference fees, tuition fees, or publication costs

    • Salaries of principal researchers or overheads

    • Bench fees, departmental vehicles, or indirect costs


Application Requirements

    • Project goals, methodology, and expected outcomes

    • Clear explanation of how the project advances sustainability science or community impact

    • Budget breakdown with justification

    • Two reference statements (one personal statement from a mentor/employer & one from a supporting institution)

    • Proof of necessary permits and ethical approvals

    • Scientific excellence and sustainability impact

    • Feasibility and clarity of methodology

    • Potential for real-world application and policy influence

    • Value for money and justification of resources


Reporting & Accountability

  • Grantees must submit a mid-term report outlining project progress.

  • A detailed impact report, including findings, images, and community testimonials, is required within three months of project completion.

  • Publications and public presentations resulting from this grant must credit the Green Institute Sustainability Impact Grant.


How to Apply?

  • hello@greeninstitute.ng

    • Round 1: January 9th – March 10th (Notifications in late May)

    • Round 2: June 12th – September 8th (Notifications in late November)

  • Late May (Round 1) & Late November (Round 2)