Entries Open for ACA Research Grant Program
The ACA Research Grants Program supports high-quality research that advances the Alberta Conservation Association’s mission and strengthens conservation efforts across Alberta.
The major funding priorities for Research 2026–2027 focus on endangered species recovery, impacts of non-native species, innovative wildlife and fish monitoring technologies, effects of agricultural runoff and recreational access, disease control in wildlife and fish, harvest management impacts, hunting and angling social studies, carbon sequestration solutions, pollinator abundance, data-deficient species assessment, and wetland restoration techniques.
The ACA Research Grants Program is designed to assist partners in delivering research that benefits the conservation, protection, and enhancement of wildlife, fish, and habitats throughout Alberta. Funding is open to qualified individuals capable of conducting high-quality research, provided they have the necessary insurance and approvals.
The typical grant amount averages around $25,400, and while no maximum is set, requests exceeding $40,000 require strong justification. Funding cannot be used for overhead, emergency support, deficit financing, profit-driven work, or activities conducted outside the designated project term, which runs from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027.
Successful applicants receive grant funds in two installments, with an initial 70 percent payment after agreement signing and the remaining 30 percent released following approval of the final project report and financial statement.
Open access publication is mandatory, and associated costs may be claimed for up to five years from April 1, 2026. Applicants should note that the initial payment may be delayed due to agreement processing timelines.
Graduate students may participate through applications submitted by their supervisors, though they are also encouraged to consider ACA Grants in Biodiversity due to the competitive nature of this stream. Applications from federal or provincial government employees as principal investigators are not eligible, although such employees may contribute to projects in supporting roles.
The program emphasizes alignment with the ACA mission and favors projects that show strong conservation relevance, partner contributions, and broader applicability in advancing conservation practices. Research must take place within Alberta and comply with all organizational, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
Proposals must be submitted using the official application template and adhere to the 14-page limit, excluding the cover and FOIPP pages. Applications should be clear, complete, and concise, and must not include supplementary documents beyond an optional project map.
The deadline for applications is 1 December 2025.
For more information, visit ACA.
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