Short Description
Vital Impacts is a women-led 501c3 non-profit organization that uses art and storytelling to amplify and support the work of communities who are protecting people, wildlife and habitats worldwide. The mission of our non-profit is to support both grassroots conservation organizations and the photographers and artists who work to tell critical environmental stories.
Eligibility
Anyone anywhere in the world may apply for this grant. However, grantees cannot be the target of sanctions or located or resident in a country, territory or region that is the target of comprehensive territorial sanctions.
Submission Requirements
- 15-20 jpeg images measuring 2000px on their longest size showing the applicants experience photographing a local conservation story. The images should represent 1-2 bodies of work or photo stories, as opposed to being a collection of stills.
- A short synopsis of the planned project. (25 words)
- A statement describing the planned project. (500-1000 words).
The statement should clearly explain why this environmental project is unique and important, particularly now; what the photographer’s relationship with this topic is; and how the photographer will approach the project over the twelve-month period. What will this grant fund? How will this work help the larger world learn about these environmental initiatives? How will this help conservation and environmentalism more broadly?
- A bio (up to 1500 characters)
- social media tags
How to Apply
Online Application
Program Benefits & Awards
Vital Impacts is proud to offer one $20,000 (US) grant to an established environmental photographer, along with six $5,000 (US) grants to emerging photographers from across the globe. These funds are specifically earmarked for the development of documentary projects focusing on environmental stories, with each grant supporting a separate photographer and project over the course of twelve months.
In addition to the grants, Vital Impacts will select ten emerging photographers to participate in an intensive mentorship program.
Over the span of twelve months, these selected individuals will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one sessions with industry experts, renowned photographers, and influential photo editors. Through these mentorship sessions, participants will refine their storytelling skills, receive guidance on navigating the industry, and establish vital connectio
GRANT DELIVERY: The $20,000 grant will be delivered in three stages.
- $10,000 will be delivered after formally accepting the award and signing the Community Environmental Grant Agreement.
- $8,000 will be delivered approximately six months after beginning the work. Grantee must show a significant body of work has begun in order to receive this second installment
- $2,000 will be delivered once the final project is submitted to Vital Impacts.
GRANT DELIVERY: The $5,000 grant will be delivered in three stages.
- $3,000 will be delivered after formally accepting the award and signing the Community Environmental Grant Agreement.
- $1,500 will be delivered approximately six months after beginning the work. Grantee must show a significant body of work has begun in order to receive this second installment
- $500 will be delivered once the final project is submitted to Vital Impacts.
Entry Fee
ENTRANCE FEE: $25. Fee may be waived for economic hardship. The fee is waived for all applicants from developing countries. Please reach out to hello@vitalimpacts.org for fee waiver codes.
Location
Missoula, MT, United States
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 16 September 2025
Website Link: https://vitalimpacts.org/pages/the-vital-impacts-environmental-photography-grant
