Project Funding by the Heinz Sielmann Foundation

The project funding of the Heinz Sielmann Foundation supports non-profit associations, foundations, universities, and other public-law institutions throughout Germany in initiatives aimed at the long-term preservation of biological diversity. Funding is provided for measures to develop, restore, and connect ecologically valuable habitats, innovative species protection projects, practice-oriented conservation research, as well as nature-related environmental education programs with broad outreach. The goal is to secure biodiversity, stabilize endangered animal and plant populations, and raise public awareness of biodiversity. The foundation awards quarterly grants for personnel and material costs to organizations based in Germany that are formally recognized as non-profit under German law and can demonstrate prior project experience in nature and environmental conservation.

Interested applicants submit their funding applications online within the fixed deadlines (January 31, April 4, June 15, September 30). The application must include the organization's current statutes, the tax exemption certificate from the tax office, and a detailed cost and financing plan. Projects already underway, technical environmental protection projects, or measures to fulfill statutory obligations are not eligible for funding. Evaluation is based on the contribution to biodiversity conservation, scientific quality, and the scope of environmental education impact. After reviewing all documents, applicants will receive feedback on their funding status, followed by the signing of a funding agreement. Interim and final reports, as well as a financial statement of expenditures, must be submitted in accordance with the foundation’s guidelines to ensure sustainable impact and transparent use of funds.