F25AS00228 Candidate Species Conservation Fund

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announces the funding opportunity F25AS00228 for the Candidate Species Conservation Fund, aimed at conserving high-priority candidate and at-risk species in the U.S. The estimated total funding available is $500,000, with approximately 20 awards anticipated. The program encourages state governments, nonprofits, and research entities, among others, to implement proactive conservation efforts to prevent species from needing federal listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Eligible projects should focus on reducing threats to candidate species, leveraging partnerships, and providing technical assistance. Applications must be submitted online via GrantSolutions.gov by September 30, 2025, with rolling awards throughout the fiscal year. Essential components of the application include project objectives, methodology, an itemized budget, and supporting documentation demonstrating expertise related to species conservation. The selection process will evaluate proposals based on relevance to program objectives, technical merit, qualifications of applicants, project costs, and the ability to leverage funding. Successful projects will not only enhance conservation efforts but also contribute to broader environmental priorities such as climate change mitigation and equity.