Pathfinder Grant (formerly The Exploration Fund Grant)

The Pathfinder Grant, previously known as The Exploration Fund Grant, supports graduate and early-career researchers in transformative fieldwork. It funds projects that enhance scientific knowledge and curiosity about the world, with grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. This opportunity encourages explorers to test innovative ideas and make meaningful contributions to science. Recipients can also join The Explorers Club, fostering collaboration and mentorship among peers dedicated to impactful research.

Previously known as “The Exploration Fund Grant,” The Pathfinder Grant is designed to support graduate and post-graduate students, as well as early-career scientists, in pursuing transformative field research. From remote wilderness to ocean depths to the edges of cultural discovery, the Pathfinder Grant helps explorers turn vision into action.
What We Fund
The Pathfinder Grant provides financial support to projects that expand knowledge, advance scientific discovery, and inspire curiosity about the world around us. Funding can be used for travel, field equipment, research expenses, and other costs essential to conducting meaningful fieldwork.
Grants typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, helping you bring your research ideas to life.
Why Apply
The Pathfinder Grant is more than funding—it’s an opportunity to advance scientific discovery in the field. Our goal is to support explorers in using their expertise to pursue important research, test innovative ideas, and make meaningful contributions to our understanding of the world.
Recipients of the Pathfinder Grant are welcome to become members of The Explorers Club and thereby join a community of peers and mentors dedicated to supporting impactful research and fostering collaboration across disciplines.

Eligibility

Graduate/post-graduate students and early-career scientists, from any discipline, conducting field-based research.