Deadline: May 26, 2026
Applications for the National Geographic Society Request for Proposal: The Climate Pledge 2026 are now open. The National Geographic Society and The Climate Pledge will support a global community of Explorers producing a portfolio of projects focused on climate resilience and solutions, creating a stunning storytelling legacy that will inspire business leaders and policymakers to take action toward a better world. This funding opportunity is open to both existing Explorers and those not yet part of the Explorer community.
Potential stories may be related to, but not limited to:
- Climate & Energy Transition
- Carbon-free energy; Decarbonization
- Nature & Land Systems
- Water stewardship; Nature-based solutions (biodiversity, restoration, adaptation); Regenerative agriculture; Food systems
- Built & Human Systems
- Built environment; Climate migration; Public health; Social adaptation
- Adaptation in Extreme Weather
- Hurricanes, heat waves, wildfires, and floods
Grant
- Applicants may request up to $100,000, though it is recommended that if you have five years or less of experience, you request up to $20,000. Budgets of successful proposals will include reasonable, well justified costs directly required to complete the project.
Eligibility
- Open to storytellers who have lived in or have significant experience working in the communities where their proposed stories are focused or demonstrate established collaborative relationships with local organizations and stakeholders in these communities will be prioritized.
- Applicants should show a record of successful media projects and must submit a portfolio (i.e. website) as part of their application packet.
Application
Only applications submitted through the online portal are accepted. Do not email or mail your application. All applications must be submitted in English, although English does not have to be your primary language. The individual responsible for carrying out the project should write the application and must be listed as the project leader.
You may submit a proposal as a project lead for only one project. The deadline for submission of applications is May 25, 2026, at 11:59 PM US-EDT.
For more information, visit The Climate Pledge.
