THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026
Funding for Indian organisations conserving lesser-known species and critical habitats, up to ₹1Cr over three years.
- Funding amount
- ₹1Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- The Habitats Trust (NGO/Foundation)
- Application deadline
- Closed (11 Feb 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026, run by The Habitats Trust, is a flagship initiative supporting biodiversity conservation in India. It focuses on lesser-known species, data-deficient taxa, and overlooked or threatened habitats. The grant provides funding over three years, enabling organisations to implement long-term, science-backed, holistic conservation programs that integrate ecological research, habitat protection, and community engagement. In the 2026 cycle, two organisations will be selected. Priority is given to projects aligned with national biodiversity priorities, with measurable outcomes and potential for sustainable, scalable impact.
Highlights
- Grant of up to ₹1Cr for conservation of lesser-known species and critical habitats
- Funding provided over three years, supporting long-term, holistic programs
- Open exclusively to registered not-for-profit entities in India
- Applicants must have at least three years of existence and ₹30 lakh average annual expenditure
- Two organisations will be funded in the 2026 cycle
Who can apply
This grant is open to not-for-profit entities registered in India, including Societies, Trusts, Section 8 companies, and approved scientific research associations. Applicants must have at least three years of functional existence and prior experience in biodiversity conservation, species protection, habitat conservation, or ecosystem restoration. They must hold valid Section 12AB and Section 80G or 35(1)(ii) registrations, a valid CSR-1 certificate, and have an average annual expenditure of at least ₹30 lakhs over FY 2022-23, FY 2023-24, and FY 2024-25. Individual applicants and private limited companies are not eligible. Projects must focus on lesser-known species or critical habitats and follow a holistic conservation approach.
THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026 closed on 11 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected organisations receive a grant of up to ₹1Cr, distributed over a three-year period. This funding supports the design and implementation of comprehensive conservation programs, including ecological research, habitat protection, and community engagement. The grant is non-dilutive, meaning no equity is taken. Additionally, grantees receive mentorship and oversight from The Habitats Trust team and expert jurors throughout the project period.
About the provider
THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026 is offered by The Habitats Trust, a non-profit foundation. It is delivered directly by The Habitats Trust as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications are submitted via the THT Grants online portal. They are first screened by external auditors for eligibility and completeness. Eligible applications are evaluated by a Sub-Jury of experts based on predefined parameters. Shortlisted applicants then undergo field-level evaluation and site verification by the Sub-Jury and THT team. Finalists pass in-depth due diligence and present their projects to the Jury, which makes the final selection. Selected organisations complete onboarding formalities before fund disbursement.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026, keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total funding amount offered?
The grant provides up to ₹1Cr per organisation, disbursed over a three-year period.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for the 2026 cycle is February 11, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants are registered not-for-profit entities in India, such as Societies, Trusts, Section 8 companies, or approved scientific research associations. They must have at least three years of existence, prior conservation experience, valid Section 12AB and Section 80G or 35(1)(ii) registrations, a CSR-1 certificate, and an average annual expenditure of ₹30 lakhs over the last three financial years. Individual applicants and private limited companies are not eligible.
What types of projects are funded?
The grant supports projects focused on lesser-known species, data-deficient taxa, and overlooked or threatened habitats. Projects must integrate ecological research, habitat protection, and community engagement, with measurable outcomes and alignment with national biodiversity priorities.
Does the grant take equity?
No, the grant is non-dilutive. The funding is provided as a grant, and no equity is taken from the recipient organisation.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants must submit their application via the THT Grants online portal. Required documents typically include proof of registration, tax registrations (12AB, 80G or 35(1)(ii)), CSR-1 certificate, financial statements showing expenditure, and project proposals. Specific requirements are detailed on the application portal.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are first checked for eligibility by external auditors. Eligible ones are evaluated by a Sub-Jury of experts based on predefined parameters. Shortlisted applicants undergo field verification, and finalists present to the Jury, which makes the final selection.
How many organisations will be funded?
For the 2026 cycle, two organisations will receive the grant.
Can an organisation apply if it is registered as a private limited company?
No, private limited companies are not eligible. Only not-for-profit entities like Societies, Trusts, Section 8 companies, or approved scientific research associations can apply.
Where can I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted through The Habitats Trust Grants online portal at https://www.thehabitatstrust.org/grants.
Is DPIIT recognition required for THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026?
THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026 is offered by The Habitats Trust, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026
Not sure THT Conservation Grant for Critical Habitats 2026 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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