Background

The Linnean Society of London is the world’s oldest active biological society, providing a forum for the discussion and advancement of the life sciences.

Objectives of Fund

The scheme provides grants to support innovative projects, designed and led by young people in the UK, which aim to increase access to local natural spaces and improve understanding of local biodiversity. 

Value Notes

Grants of up to £1,000 are available, however applications for significantly lower amounts are welcome.

The Society will co-fund projects along with other organisations.

Who Can Apply

Individuals and organisations who are linked to a school or community-based organisation that works directly with young people (16 and under) within the UK are welcome to apply. This includes (but is not limited to):

• School staff.
• Student groups.
• Home education groups.
• Community groups.
• Small charities.

Applications should be created in partnership with and ideally led by young people.

Location

United Kingdom.

Restrictions

Grants cannot be spent on:

• Large prizes.
• Large non-consumable equipment (e.g. purchasing microscopes or computers).
• On-going salary costs.
• Costs that are already covered by other funding.
• General running costs.
• Overheads that are paid for by other income.

More than half the grant cannot be spent on refreshments or project specific staff costs.

Eligible Expenditure

Funding is intended for projects which affect change or empower local young people and the surrounding communities to increase access to natural spaces and improve understanding of the local biodiversity.

Examples of eligible projects are as follows:

• Running a school festival about nature.
• Painting community murals showcasing biodiversity in the area.
• Building or restoring a community garden.
• Creating a nature walk.
• Hiring a speaker to come and talk about local foraging.

Grants can be used for materials, room hire, publicity, speakers, trainers, freelancers, project-specific staff costs, audio-visual hire, reasonable volunteer expenses, transport, or other costs of activities/events.

Proposed projects should commence in January 2026 and be finished by the end of June 2026.

How To Apply

The deadline for applications is 25 October 2025 (midnight). 

Applicants will be notified of any decisions made by mid-December 2025.

The online application form is available on the Linnean Society website, along with a set of guidance notes.

A youth panel of 16 to 18 year olds from across the country will select who should receive an award.