In December 2023, we launched the WILDLABS Awards 2024 with the goal of funding 14 projects across three grant levels: $10,000, $30,000, and $60,000. Three months later, after receiving 194 applications, we selected 13 recipients who made up the inaugural cohort of the WILDLABS Awards.

For more insights into last year’s award statistics, please visit this thread, where we share key stats and takeaways from the projects that applied last year. 

Our team is committed to a reflective learning methodology that helps us improve every time we try something new, and we knew there was a lot we wanted to improve the next time we did this. And while you were all so enthusiastic and welcoming of this new funding opportunity, we also heard there was a lot you wanted us to improve. 

We thank you for all this feedback because we learnt a lot. We captured them in a 15-page report that have incorporated the feedback and ideas into how we have approached this next round. 

Some of these insights may already be apparent to those who applied last year, but specifically, we have ensured: 

• The application window will be extended.
• The application form will be simplified.
• There will now be only two grant levels.

While there were many areas of improvement and lessons learnt on our side, there were also insights and learnings on the application side that might help you as you are developing your proposals this round. 

To this end, we wanted to share with you five key takeaways from the judging process, with the goal of helping you develop the best possible proposals this round. 

1. Clear and Concise Proposals are Crucial

In the initial assessment round, judges will read through dozens of applications. 

Crafting a strong proposal can be challenging, especially if English is not your first language. We worked very hard to look beyond how things were written to understand and assess what you were proposing, however making a clear, concise proposal does help this process. The standout applications provided clear and sufficient information, allowing the WILDLABS team to easily grasp the project’s value.

Keep in mind that we may not be familiar with your specific context, technologies, or the conservation challenges you are tackling. Therefore, please provide clear context to explain why you are applying and why your project matters for biodiversity conservation. Clearly outline how you intend to leverage technology adoption, innovation, or scalability to address the problem.

Make your first responses count—hook the judges by sharing your story and demonstrating why your work is exceptional, because it is. Be direct and concise. Think about using headings and paragraphs to make your project and outcomes clearer. We would love to fund most of the projects we receive, but our resources are limited. Show us why this funding is pivotal for your project's success and how game-changing it could be.

2. What Makes a Good Budget?

A common issue we encountered during application reviews was around budget clarity. Please provide a detailed breakdown of your planned expenditures, whether for goods, services, or staff costs. This helps judges assess the perceived feasibility of your project.

Additionally, since we ask for your total project budget, clearly specify what the grant funds will cover. 

If applicable, explain how you plan to secure additional funding.

The main thing we are looking for is a budget that makes sense for what you are proposing. Ask for what you need, and tell us how you will use it. 

3. What Makes a Good Project Plan?

Like the budget, your project plan should show that you have a clear path forward. We want to see that you have a sensible, logical path forward for how you will achieve your project goals. A clear outline of your timeline and tasks will help the judges be more confident in your timeline. 

4. Judges encourage Inclusivity

Last year, 30% of the team members from applicant projects were women, a ratio reflected in our final selection. Demonstrating a commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and gender equity in your team can significantly enhance your chances of success. 

5. Judges Favored Grounded Projects

Grounded projects demonstrate a deep connection to the local communities where they aim to operate. Whether you are a large organization expanding to a new country or an individual with an innovative idea, we assess how well you have engaged—and plan to engage—with local communities and partners. Projects that demonstrate collaboration, strong networks, and sector knowledge are highly encouraged.

We hope this feedback is helpful! For more support as you're developing your proposal for this year's awards, come along to our Q&A webinar on the 12th December. The recording will be posted to that link after the event. 

Our Q&A thread will also be open throughout the award application period, so please visit it here to ask any question. 

Please also note that the Funding and Finance group curators @HRees and @Frank_van_der_Most are dedicated to providing relevant information and helpful tips to enhance your application process.