Keystone Grants

Current application window (online form):

Stage I: applications are CLOSED. Deadline for application was May 13th, 2026, 18:00 Central European Time (UTC+1).
Stage II: if your stage I application is successful,  you will be invited to submit your stage II application in June.

The Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) is committed to protecting our oceans by funding and supporting research, conservation and education projects worldwide, focusing primarily on threatened marine wildlife and their habitats.

This fund prioritize projects led by established researchers and conservation practitioners with a demonstrated track record in their field. We prioritize work that delivers clear, direct, and measurable conservation outcomes for sharks, rays, skates and chimaeras. Projects should be grounded in proven methodologies with a realistic and well-defined path to impact. Applicants at earlier career stages, or proposing experimental, innovative or higher-risk approaches, are encouraged to consider our Small Grants Program instead.

The funding cycle is biennial, with the grant application window opening in even years (2024, 2026, 2028, etc.), and the grant covering the period from March 2025 to June 2026, for example. Funds are allocated on an annual basis, with the option to apply for continued funding every year. The usual project duration is limited to three years. Grants average 25,000 USD per annum.

Note: the distinction between our Small and Keystone Grant programs is based on the profile of the project leader and the nature of the work, not on the budget requested or minimum project duration. Established researchers proposing small focused projects should apply to the Keystone Grant program.

Application process

1. The Keystone Grant application process consists of a two-stage online application: Stage I involves completing a short online form, equivalent to 4-6 pages. Stage II, by invitation only based on the Stage I application, will involve the completion of a longer and more detailed online form, equivalent to 10-12 pages.
2. It is the policy of the SOSF to provide, where practicable, a degree of continuing support to the projects it is funding; the leaders of such projects may be invited by the SOSF to complete an application for a continuation grant in the coming year.
3. Only one application will be accepted from any one applicant.
4. Project leaders who hold an active SOSF Keystone Grant are not eligible to apply for a new grant.
5. All applications will be reviewed by the SOSF scientific committee and require final approval from the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Please have a look at our blank application form, with guidelines included. Please read the guidelines carefully.

Do you have more questions? please check the funding guidelines page and the grant FAQ page.