Program Description

The Foundation’s Science subprogram focuses on the application of science to critical conservation challenges. We identify opportunities where better use or application of science could dramatically accelerate progress toward the Foundation’s conservation goals. We then fund projects over periods of one to three years, with specific, measurable outcomes that pursue those opportunities through support of targeted research projects or projects that increase the impact of relevant research on decision-makers. These projects are usually directly linked to the Foundation’s other grantmaking strategies. For additional information see the document Science at the Packard Foundation.

In 2004-2009, the Science program undertook a significant initiative in Ecosystem-Based Management of coastal and marine ecosystems. Learn more about the Initiative and the Foundation's ongoing commitment to EBM.

What We Fund

We use the following criteria in selecting projects for science subprogram grants:

1. Impact. Is there an opportunity for science to contribute significantly to a policy or management outcome? Would that opportunity be missed without Foundation support?
2. Focus. Would the policy or management outcome support goals of the Conservation and Science program? (We are particularly interested in: a) opportunities that directly contribute to existing subprogram strategies in the Conservation and Science Program; and b) opportunities in California or along the West Coast of the United States.)
3. Definable outcome. Is the expected policy or management outcome clearly defined and ripe for intervention?
4. Short or Medium time-frame. Can the outcome be achieved over a period of one to three years?

There is a growing body of experience that can be used in determining how to most effectively strengthen the role of science in decision-making, and we use this knowledge to guide our grantmaking. For additional information, see the document Science at the Packard Foundation, the discussion paper Linking Knowledge with Action, and the summary of current projects.

How to Get Support

We welcome new project ideas for the Science program. Note that a project may include more than one grant. The initial statement of an idea should be brief and a full proposal will be invited if the project is adopted. Click here to learn more about how to submit a project idea.

Project ideas should be submitted before the end of June to assure consideration for funding in the following year’s budget. Once the budget for the year is outlined, additional projects are harder to add to the mix.

Before submitting a project idea, it may be useful to review the discussion paper Linking Knowledge with Action, as well as summaries of current projects.