The Disney Conservation Fund supports the study of wildlife, the protection of habitats, the development of community conservation and education programs in critical ecosystems and experiences that connect kids to nature across the globe. Since it was founded in 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has helped protect more than 400 million species and has given more than $45 million to conserve wildlife and wild places through its annual conservation grants program.
The Disney Conservation Fund also provides support to organizations helping animals during emergencies and natural disasters through its Rapid Response Fund. These awards are capped at $5,000 and can be applied for throughout the year. Projects should clearly contribute to the conservation of endangered or threatened species in the wild along with their habitats and engage the communities that surround them through community-based education programs or support sustainable community development projects that assist communities in protecting nature. Ideal projects will build on previous work that demonstrates an established commitment to a conservation program or be well suited to become or contribute to a long-term conservation program. Preference is given to projects where there is a significant conservation action component. Priority is given to the following types of projects: Education and community engagement efforts, including measuring results; sustainable development programs directly connected to protecting species and habitats; and scientific field studies on species and habitats.