Are you a high school student or undergraduate with an innovative scientific idea that could contribute to solving real-world challenges? Do you dream of conducting field research but lack the financial resources to bring your project to life? The Rising Explorer Grant 2027 offers an incredible opportunity for aspiring young scientists and explorers from around the world to receive funding for original field-based research projects.

The Rising Explorer Grant Program is designed to empower the next generation of scientists, researchers, conservationists, and explorers by providing financial support for field science projects that generate new knowledge. With grants averaging $2,000, the program encourages ambitious students to move beyond the classroom and conduct meaningful scientific research that contributes to both human knowledge and the well-being of our planet.

Whether your interests lie in biology, ecology, environmental science, archaeology, wildlife conservation, marine research, or another field science discipline, this grant could be the stepping stone that launches your scientific career.

Applications for the 2027 Rising Explorer Grant cycle are now officially open, giving eligible students worldwide the opportunity to secure funding for their next research expedition.

About the Rising Explorer Grant Program

The Rising Explorer Grant Program is an initiative created to nurture young scientific talent by supporting independent field research. Rather than funding travel experiences or educational excursions, the program specifically seeks projects that use scientific methods to answer meaningful research questions and generate new knowledge.

The grant aims to inspire young researchers to pursue ambitious scientific investigations while developing practical research skills, critical thinking, and leadership in science.

Recipients become part of a growing global community of emerging explorers committed to advancing knowledge through scientific discovery.

Funding Amount

Successful applicants receive grants averaging:

Up to approximately $2,000 per project

The funding is intended to support legitimate scientific field research and associated project costs.

Who Can Apply?

The Rising Explorer Grant is open to students from around the world.

Eligible applicants include:

High school students
College undergraduates
Students from every country
Individuals from every background
Young researchers with original scientific ideas
Applicants capable of developing a clear research plan and project budget

The program welcomes applicants regardless of nationality, encouraging scientific curiosity across all regions of the globe.

Fields of Research Supported

The grant supports field science research across a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Examples include:

Biological Sciences

Biology
Ecology
Evolutionary biology
Plant sciences

Wildlife and Conservation

Wildlife conservation
Animal behavior
Biodiversity research
Habitat conservation

Environmental Sciences

Climate research
Environmental monitoring
Ecosystem studies
Sustainability research

Archaeology and Anthropology

Archaeological fieldwork
Cultural anthropology
Human evolution
Historical research

Marine and Freshwater Sciences

Marine biology
Ocean ecosystems
Freshwater ecology
Aquatic biodiversity

The list above is not exhaustive. Projects from other field science disciplines may also be considered.

What Types of Projects Are Eligible?

Applicants should note that the program funds genuine scientific research—not recreational travel or educational trips.

Eligible projects should:

Address a scientific research question
Be based on field research
Generate new scientific knowledge
Follow scientific research methods
Produce meaningful research findings
Demonstrate clear objectives and methodology

The program does not support:

Adventure travel
Tourism
School field trips
Projects without scientific objectives
Activities that do not contribute new knowledge

Why Apply for the Rising Explorer Grant?

The Rising Explorer Grant offers much more than financial support.

Successful applicants will benefit from:

Financial Support

Receive approximately $2,000 to help conduct independent field research.

Launch Your Scientific Career

The program is specifically designed to help young scientists begin careers in scientific exploration and research.

Conduct Real Scientific Research

Participants gain practical experience conducting independent research outside the classroom.

Build Research Skills

Develop valuable skills including:

Scientific planning
Field data collection
Research methodology
Project management
Scientific communication

Contribute to Global Knowledge

Recipients have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to science by producing original research findings.

Join a Prestigious Network

One of the unique benefits of becoming a Rising Explorer is automatic consideration for membership in the Explorers Club.

Membership provides opportunities for:

Networking with scientists
Connecting with researchers
Collaborating with professionals
Accessing future opportunities
Becoming part of an international exploration community

Application Requirements

Applicants must complete the official online application form.

The application requires the following information:

1. Project Title

Provide a clear and descriptive title for your proposed research.

2. Project Description

Explain:

Your research question
Objectives
Scientific significance
Expected outcomes

3. Expedition Timeline

Outline:

Project schedule
Research phases
Key milestones
Completion timeline

4. Detailed Budget

Applicants should clearly explain how grant funds will be used.

5. Project Location and Methodology

Include:

Research location
Field methods
Data collection plans
Scientific approach

6. Dissemination Plan

Describe how your research findings will be shared.

Examples include:

Public presentations
Journal articles
School research papers
Scientific reports
Conferences

7. Letters of Support

Applicants must submit:

Two letters of support

8. Permits and Ethical Considerations

Provide any available information regarding:

Research permits
Ethical approvals
Required permissions

Click HERE to read more.

Selection Considerations

Although detailed evaluation criteria are not listed, strong applications are likely to demonstrate:

Original scientific ideas
Clear research objectives
Well-developed methodology
Realistic timeline
Practical budget
Strong scientific value
Feasibility
Commitment to completing the project

Need Assistance?

Applicants with questions regarding the application process may contact:

Email: grants@explorers.org

Application Deadline

Applications for the 2027 Rising Explorer Grant cycle are currently open.

Application Deadline: August 31, 2026 (6:00 PM Eastern Time).

Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparing their proposals early to allow sufficient time to gather supporting documents, obtain letters of recommendation, and refine their research plans before the submission deadline.

APPLY HERE

Conclusion

The Rising Explorer Grant 2027 represents an outstanding opportunity for ambitious high school and undergraduate students to transform innovative scientific ideas into impactful field research. By providing funding of approximately $2,000, the program helps remove financial barriers that often prevent young researchers from pursuing meaningful scientific investigations.

Beyond financial assistance, recipients gain valuable research experience, expand their professional networks, and may even be considered for membership in the prestigious Explorers Club. Whether your passion lies in conservation, ecology, archaeology, marine science, anthropology, or environmental research, this grant offers a platform to make a genuine contribution to science while building the foundation for a successful future in research and exploration.

Students with strong research ideas, a solid project plan, and a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge should take advantage of this unique global opportunity before the application deadline.

Click HERE for more grant opportunities.

Rising Explorer Grant 2027: Up to $2,000 in Funding for High School and Undergraduate Students Worldwide to Conduct Scientific Field Research ·Unknown