Be an Explorer With National Geographic -- National Geographic

Field Expedition: Mongolia

Using Cutting-Edge Science to Solve an Ancient Mystery

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Critical Work in Research, Conservation, Exploration, and Education

Since 1888, National Geographic has supported exploration and discovery, bringing gems like Machu Picchu, undersea wonders, and new species to light. Our programs in field-based research, conservation, exploration, and education continue to provide the world with scientific breakthroughs and discoveries that inspire people everywhere to care about our planet. Today, a new generation of National Geographic explorers are redefining exploration. Become a part of this exciting generation by applying for one of the grants below.

Apply For a Grant

Hypothesis-Driven

The Committee for Research and Exploration provides research grants focused on cultivating scientists, explorers, and conservationists.
Media-Driven Storytelling

The Expeditions Council funds exploration of little-known areas of the world, as well as regions undergoing significant environmental or cultural change.
Grants in Northern Europe and China

The Global Exploration Fund establishes local support for research, conservation, and exploration projects in Northern Europe and China.
The Next Generation

The Young Explorers Grants Program awards grants to scientists and explorers between the ages of 18 and 25.
Applied Conservation

The Conservation Trust supports projects of global importance, emphasizing practical conservation solutions.
Exploratory Fieldwork

National Geographic/Waitt Grants provide funding for exploratory fieldwork that holds promise for breakthroughs in the natural and social sciences.
Saving Big Cats

The Big Cats Initiative brings several National Geographic divisions together in the fight to save lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other big cats.
Revitalization Projects

The Genographic Legacy Fund aids indigenous and traditional peoples by supporting revitalization projects that raise global awareness about cultural loss.
Global Storytelling

The All Roads Film Project is dedicated to providing a platform for indigenous and underrepresented minority-culture storytellers around the world to showcase their works.

National Geographic Initiatives

Join a Project

Genographic Project

Where do you really come from? And how did you get to where you live today?

Explorer Projects

Emerging Explorers

These inspiring young adventurers, scientists, photographers, and storytellers are already making a difference.

Meet All Our Explorers

Explorers A-Z

At the heart of our explorers program is the quest for knowledge through exploration and the people who make it possible.
Explorers by Category

Browse our different areas of exploration and discover the fascinating people behind the projects.