What does a direct connection to management mean?
The SCF believes that the global threats to sharks and rays require immediate action. Therefore, it seeks projects that will result in changes in shark and ray policies, laws or regulations in the near term. Projects that, for example, provide information that would be useful for policy at some point in the future or that raise general awareness about shark and ray challenges, do not meet this requirement. Examples of projects that have a direct connection to management include: 1) determining the distribution of sharks and/or rays in a particular area where the information will be used to establish protected areas; 2) CITES implementation training; or 3) information of the status of shark populations in a particular area that will be used to establish management measures such as catch or retention limits.
What is an achievement?
Achievements are discrete products the project plans to produce, the outcomes of the project. For example, recommendations for inclusion in a conservation policy or boundaries for a protected area. They would not include deploying satellite tags or conducting outreach and education activities. Those are activities that might be conducted to produce an achievement. All Small Grant applications must have clearly identified achievements.
How is the 5 pm EDT application deadline determined, and can applications be filed after the deadline?
In general, the deadline for submitting proposals is 5pm EDT in the United States. The SCF on-line application system will not accept applications after that deadline. A short extension may be granted for extenuating circumstances that are out of the control of the applicant.
How long are Small Grants and can they be part of a larger project?
Small Grants should not exceed 18 months in duration, but may be extended because of unforeseen circumstances. They may be part of a larger project if the proposed work is a distinct portion of the larger project. For example, identifying habitat preferences for threatened sharks for use in establishing protected areas.
I was turned down in the past, can I apply again and what should I do differently?
Applicants that have been turned down in the past may apply again. If you wish to apply again, you are strongly urged to contact the SCF to learn how to modify a new proposal to increase the likelihood of funding.
My organization is an existing SCF Grantee, can we receive a Small Grant?
No, to ensure the wide availability of Small Grants, all current grantees are not eligible for funding. Former SCF grantees may apply for Small Grants.
Will the SCF consider Small Grant proposals for work in countries that are not priority countries?
Yes, but the project must address other SCF priorities such as reforming fisheries management, preventing extinctions, or identifying and protecting important shark areas.
Are individuals or projects from government institutions or government agencies eligible for funding?
Government entities are not eligible for funding with the exception of academic institutions such as universities. We would be able to consider the Letter of Intent (LOI) or application if the individual or project is sponsored by a non-profit or academic institution.