Grant Spotlight: Temper of The Times Foundation

Funding Media Campaigns That Support Wildland Conservation

Nonprofit organizations working to protect the environment often face a major challenge: getting their message seen and heard. The Temper of The Times Foundation helps bridge that gap by funding advertising and outreach efforts that increase awareness about wildland conservation and restoration projects across the United States.

Founded in 1997, the Foundation was created to promote the use of standard marketing concepts in environmental work. Recognizing that many conservation organizations have limited access to paid media, Temper of The Times provides grants to underwrite advertising campaigns that support the protection of native wildlife, plants, and ecosystems. The Foundation also supports earned media campaigns and other communication efforts related to conservation and restoration initiatives.

Grant awards typically range from $5,000 to $15,000. Funding may be used for the production of print, radio, or television advertisements, as well as for purchasing advertising space or airtime. Grants may also support the production and distribution of pamphlets, books, videos, or press packets. However, funding cannot be used for general operating support, staff salaries, newsletters, membership campaigns, lobbying efforts, or political candidates.

To be eligible, applicants must be nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3) public charities by the IRS. The Foundation does not fund individuals, for-profit businesses, or government agencies. Preference is given to projects that are likely to have measurable and immediate effects on wildland ecosystem conservation and restoration, rather than projects that are purely educational in nature.

Applications are accepted annually and must be submitted through the Foundation’s online Apply page by December 15. If December 15 falls on a weekend, applications are due on the first Monday after the 15th. All materials should be combined into a single PDF file, or submitted as an MS Word document if the file is under 1.0 MB. Proposals should be limited to five pages and include organizational information, project summary, target audience, work plan, budget, anticipated outcomes, and evidence of feasibility.

The Foundation’s directors review applications based on ecological importance, timeliness, creativity, likely impact, and the applicant organization’s track record. Applicants are generally notified of funding decisions by email approximately six weeks after the deadline. Because of limited staffing, the Foundation does not accept telephone calls from applicants.

For nonprofit organizations looking to expand the reach of a conservation message, the Temper of The Times Foundation offers a valuable opportunity. By supporting strategic media and advertising campaigns, this grant helps organizations raise awareness, inspire action, and make a meaningful difference for wildland ecosystems nationwide.

To Apply: Temper of The Times Foundation Apply Page