EDGE Fellowship 2026 for Leaders

The EDGE Fellowship 2026 is a 28-month programme that builds conservation leadership where it’s needed most. Fellows receive funding, training, and mentorship to implement a two-year project focused on a species from our EDGE species list — species that are Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered. In 2026, the Fellowship call is open globally, with priority given to projects outside the G10, EU, Australia, NZ, and South Korea.

Summary

1. Application Deadline: July 21, 2025
2. Type: Fellowship
3. Sponsor: EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered)
4. Gender: Men and Women

Eligibility Criteria for EDGE Fellowship 2026 for Leaders

You may be eligible for an EDGE Fellowship if your work focuses on an EDGE species included on the EDGE List, you are an early-career conservationist with less than ten years of paid experience, and you are a national of the country where the focal EDGE species occurs.

Application Timeline:

1. Expression of Interest Due: 23:59 21 July 2025
2. Invited Full Applications Due: 23:59 01 September 2025
3. Fellowships Awarded: October 2025
4. Fellowship Begins: January 2026
5. Fellowship Ends: May 2028

Benefits of EDGE Fellowship 2026 for Leaders

Each fellowship involves a comprehensive programme of support and professional development opportunities, including

1. Six weeks of training in person
2. A four-week Conservation Tools Course and an advanced two-week Conservation Impact Course in the UK.
3. A grant of at least £10,000 for project implementation
4. The opportunity to fully manage your own budget, plus dedicated support to leverage additional funding.
5. Continuous mentorship and access to training and coaching opportunities with ZSL and our partners
6. Wrap-around mentorship and access to unique training and coaching opportunities with ZSL and our partners.

How to Apply

For more details, visit EDGE Fellowship webpage

Application Deadline

July 21, 2025

Application Link(s)

• Apply for EDGE Fellowship 2026 for Leaders