Project Funding of the Heinz Sielmann Foundation

The Heinz Sielmann Foundation’s funding program offers a unique opportunity to sustainably support projects in the field of nature and species conservation. From the perspective of preserving biological diversity, innovative measures for the renaturation, protection, and maintenance of ecologically valuable habitats are promoted. The focus is not only on direct species protection and the promotion of species worthy of protection but also on applied conservation research, which is intended to make a significant contribution to expanding the scientific understanding of habitat requirements. Furthermore, the funding strengthens public awareness of the importance of nature and species conservation by supporting projects that have a broad societal impact.

Eligible for this grant measure are exclusively organizations, educational institutions, and non-profit associations based in Germany that are recognized as charitable or under public law. When applying, proof of professional and organizational competence, the organization’s statutes, and the current tax exemption certificate must be submitted. Financial support can be requested both to cover personnel costs and material expenses. The application process is conducted entirely online, with fixed application deadlines such as April 15, 2025, June 15, 2025, September 30, 2025, and January 31, 2026, to be observed.

The selection of funded projects is based on various evaluation criteria, with innovation potential, sustainability of the measure, achievement of objectives, and economic efficiency being paramount. Exclusion criteria include projects that have already commenced, technical environmental protection initiatives, or projects primarily serving the fulfillment of statutory obligations. The funding approach aims to set long-term impulses in the areas of environmental and climate protection as well as to promote the networking of individual biotopes and biotope complexes. Through the targeted use of funding, the foundation makes an important contribution to securing habitats worthy of protection and promoting forward-looking nature research projects—a measure essential for preserving the natural foundations of life for all living beings.