SOA grants tangibly advance ocean restoration in alignment with broader conservation targets put forth by the United Nations and other expert bodies. We prioritize grants to youth, women, and communities experiencing the impacts of climate change and systemic inequities. Grants are meant to spur initiatives with the potential for long-term impact, measured by specific environmental and social indicators like greenhouse gas reduction and sustainable income generation. SOA prioritizes providing grants to members in the Ocean Leadership network, and supports all grantees with access to mentors and educational content.

The project leader must be sufficiently proficient in English to submit the application and complete reports, as well as verbally communicate in meetings and workshops

The project must have a clear and demonstrable connection to SOA's mission to improve ocean health and sustainable resource use

Individuals or nations subject to U.S. sanctions (by OFAC or other governing bodies) are not eligible to receive funding.

All laws and regulations, including health and safety guidelines, must be followed.

SOA may not be able to send money to banks that do not accept US Dollars. Lists of countries we can not send money to in local currency will be listed on the application.

Individuals and organizations can receive a grant from SOA. Individuals who are US citizens or residents will be asked to complete IRS form W-9 during the application process. Non-US citizens or residents will need to complete IRS form WBEN for individuals and WBEN-8 for organization

Microgrants are often awarded to people and organizations that need support in building their operational capacity. Therefore, we permit applicants to apply for funding for indirect expenses (i.e. overhead) but these should not exceed 10% of the amount requested.

Direct project support in the form of supplementing personnel salary is only permitted for organizational grantees, and should be calculated in accordance with their involvement with the project.

Stipends, honoraria, and other forms of reimbursement for project teams, as well as contractual payments to vendors and contractors should be fully explicated in the budget notes.

$4,000 is the maximum amount for any first-time SOA Microgrant. $15,000 is the maximum grant award for any grant. $2,500 is the average grant amount.

Grants are disbursed in two installments. The first installment is 80% of the overall amount awarded, and is sent within one week of the signature of the grant agreement. The remaining 20% is sent after approval of the interim report.

The time from the date of award to date fully funded can range from 4 weeks to 10 months, depending on the pace and needs of the project. In some instances, projects may be funded in one disbursement.

The date of notification of award varies depending on the specific call for applications.

All grantees have the option to engage in 1:1 mentorship with an SOA Mentor.

More opportunities available on ad hoc basis depending on resources and events.

There is no obligation to participate if invited to other events.

Project timelines vary depending on the call for applications. In general, applicants should request funds for activities within a one-year period from receiving the award.

All projects will require an interim and final report, which include narrative updates on project activities and outcomes, financial updates on expenditures to date with receipts, and media that documents the project.

Interim Reports are due when 50% of the grant award has been spent or no later than 30 days prior to the Project End Date.

Final Reports are due within 30 days after the Project End Date.