Empowering Local Champions of Conservation
We believe that lasting conservation begins with the people who live alongside the wildlife and ecosystems we strive to protect. Grants provided by our Expedition Impact Program are designed to empower local leaders, scientists, and communities to carry out the work that matters most—preserving habitats, protecting species, and building sustainable livelihoods.
Driving Real Impact on the Ground
We support projects that might otherwise struggle for funding, giving local partners the resources they need to continue their critical research and conservation programs. Whether protecting endangered species, restoring fragile habitats, or training the next generation of ocean conservationists, these projects ensure that communities are not only stewards of their own environment but also champions for global biodiversity.
Areas of Conservation Support
The Expedition Impact Program funds community-based ocean conservation projects in the places we explore. Grants of $1,000–$10,000 help partners address marine plastic pollution, sustainable fisheries, climate change resilience, sustainable tourism, and behavior change—strengthening both communities and ecosystems.
Community Development & Conservation Solutions
Projects that build local expertise and infrastructure for long-term conservation, including training, monitoring equipment, leadership development, and exchange programs.
Critical Data Collection & Research
Efforts that gather essential information for conservation decisions, such as species surveys, reef health and fisheries assessments, and impact studies.
Direct Conservation Action
Immediate interventions addressing threats to ecosystems and wildlife, including habitat restoration and emergency responses.
Behavior Change Initiatives
Initiatives that create measurable shifts in human behaviors affecting ocean health, such as plastic reduction campaigns or sustainable fishing adoption programs.
Conservation Storytelling
Projects using film, photography, podcasts, or digital media to connect travelers and communities to conservation work, including training locals to share their own stories.
IMPACT IN ACTION
From Single-Use to Stewardship in Alor
In Alor, fishing sustains families—but until recently, the ocean paid the price. Ice for daily fishing was sold in single-use plastic bags, many of which ended up drifting into the sea or washing onto reefs. Savu South received an Expedition Impact Program (EIP) grant to expand their reusable ice program, which provides local Alorian fishermen with free ice cubes made in durable silicone molds. This effort replaces the previously used plastic bags that were making their way into protected waters. Since launch, the program has kept over 10,000 single-use plastic bags out of the ocean.
Building Lasting Relationships
Our approach is simple yet profound: we don't just fund projects; we forge lasting relationships. Travelers who join our expeditions often meet grantees and local partners face-to-face, gaining a better understanding of local conservation challenges and witnessing firsthand their passion, commitment, and ingenuity in action. By experiencing these efforts firsthand, our expeditions become a powerful catalyst for ocean conservation, showing how thoughtful travel can support and amplify the work of local communities protecting our oceans.
Expedition Impact Program Grant Recipients
Every grant is a story of hope, resilience, and collaboration—proving that together, we can protect our shared blue planet. Read about the work of past recipients.
