Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: September 15, 2025
The Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grant 2025 is now open for applications! This global opportunity seeks to support both emerging and established photographers who are documenting pressing environmental issues and solutions through compelling visual storytelling.
Offered by Vital Impacts, a non-profit organization co-founded by award-winning National Geographic photographer Ami Vitale, this grant empowers storytellers who highlight our planet’s beauty, resilience, and challenges. Whether you’re capturing climate change, biodiversity, indigenous conservation, or ecosystem restoration, this is your chance to amplify your work with significant support.
THE GRANTS
Our grants serve a dual purpose: to provide support and encouragement to visual storytellers embarking on long-term documentary photography projects, and to foster collaboration with local communities dedicated to environmental and wildlife conservation efforts.
Vital Impacts is proud to offer one $20,000 (US) grant to an established environmental photographer, along with six $5,000 (US) grants to emerging photographers from across the globe. These funds are specifically earmarked for the development of documentary projects focusing on environmental stories, with each grant supporting a separate photographer and project over the course of twelve months.
The aim of these grants is to spotlight solution-based environmental initiatives through visual storytelling. Recipients will have the opportunity to dedicate their time, guided by mentorship and intellectual freedom, towards producing a compelling body of work.
Throughout the twelve-month period, the Vital Impacts team and our mentorship community will provide ongoing support and guidance to grant recipients. By the conclusion of the grant period, it is expected that each recipient will have completed a comprehensive body of work ready for publication, showcasing the impact of their efforts on environmental conservation.
THE MENTORSHIPS
In addition to the grants, Vital Impacts will select ten emerging photographers to participate in an intensive mentorship program.
Over the span of twelve months, these selected individuals will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one sessions with industry experts, renowned photographers, and influential photo editors. Through these mentorship sessions, participants will refine their storytelling skills, receive guidance on navigating the industry, and establish vital connections.
Benefits
Selected grantees will receive:
- $20,000 grant funding for environmental photography projects
- Mentorship from leading photographers and conservationists
- International exposure through Vital Impacts platforms and media partners
- Creative and career development support
Grantees will also have the opportunity to showcase their work in exhibitions and publications that raise awareness and inspire action.
Eligibility Criteria
The grant is open to:
- Vital Impacts is seeking out local photographers deeply embedded within their communities, possessing both the knowledge and passion to report on environmental issues, particularly those relevant to their own surroundings.
- Vital Impacts is on the lookout for individuals who can convey the complexities of environmental or conservation challenges, along with potential solutions.
Applicants must demonstrate a clear project vision, storytelling ability, and potential for impact.
Application Process and Documents Required
To apply:
- Visit the Vital Impacts website
- Complete the online application form
- Submit the following:
- A project proposal (max 750 words)
- Portfolio of 10–15 images from the project or similar work
- A short bio and artist statement
- Budget and timeline
- Applications will be reviewed by a panel of experts in photography and conservation.
