Scholarships & grants
Explore a range of scholarships and research grants designed to support students and researchers passionate about conservation and sustainability.
Whether you're a local student from the Galapagos Islands aiming to pursue higher education or a researcher focused on promoting sustainable practices, the Charles Darwin Foundation provides funding, mentorship, and resources.
Our goal is to help you make a meaningful impact on Galapagos ecosystems and beyond. Browse the opportunities below, and stay updated for more future scholarship and grant opportunities!
Research grants & Fellowships
Juan Manuel García/CDF
Blue Pioneers Fellowship
Small-scale fisheries are vital to the food security, economy, and cultural identity of the communities in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP). Since 2019, the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF), through its Galapagos Fisheries Think Tank, has led interdisciplinary research to better understand and strengthen the role of seafood systems in supporting local livelihoods and marine ecosystem health.
Now in its third edition, the Blue Pioneers Fellowship continues this mission by supporting women postgraduate students (Master’s or PhD level) conducting research on seafood systems in the ETP. This initiative seeks to empower female scientists and promote inclusive, interdisciplinary research that advances sustainability, equity, and resilience in coastal and island communities.
Grantees will receive mentorship from CDF’s interdisciplinary team and have access to scientific data, collections, and research facilities to explore topics such as marine ecology, fisheries management, governance, climate change, food security, and socio-economic systems.
Apply now to join the next generation of ocean leaders shaping a fair and sustainable seafood system in the ETP.
Application deadline: January 31, 2026
Stipend and term: Recipients will receive a stipend of up to $12,000 for 12 months for Masters and 24 months for PhDs.
If you have any questions regarding this grant, please contact Solange Andrade:
Scholarships for Galapagos residents
Juan Manuel Garcia-CDF
CDF Fernando Ortiz Crespo Scholarship
Since its inception in 1971, the CDF Fernando Ortiz Crespo Scholarship program has enabled over 250 students from Galapagos to complete their education and pursue careers in conservation. Our program provides funding, mentorship, and support to students with a strong academic record and demonstrated interest in conservation.
Through such comprehensive support, the Charles Darwin Foundation, with the support of Ecoventura's Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF), helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to make meaningful contributions to conservation efforts, while nurturing their passion for preserving of our planet's precious ecosystems.
This partial scholarship is available to residents of the Galapagos Islands with excellent academic records who are about to pursue their University studies in any professional field that contributes to the wlfare and sustainability of Galapagos.
Deadline for applications: 20 april 2025
Deadline for applications:
20 april 2025
What the scholarship covers
- University tuition costs up to $900.00 per year.
- Monthly living expenses of $300.00 (food and lodging expenses).
- One annual airfare for up to 4 years (Quito/Guayaquil - Galapagos- Quito/Guayaquil).
- Annual financial assistance of $300.00 (field trips and/or books).
- Accident and life insurance (coverage only in Ecuador).
Minimum requirements
- Be a permanent resident of the Galapagos Islands.
- Have completed high school in 2024-2025 in Galapagos.
- Have an excellent academic record, with a minimum average of 9.25/10.
- For those already in university, you must be in the 1st or 2nd semester with a GPA of at least 8.5/10.
- Demonstrate a passion for environmental protection and Galapagos.
Application checklist
To apply, please submit the following documents:
- Proof of permanent Galápagos residency (minors must also submit their guardian’s ID).
- Copy of your national ID and voting certificate.
- High school GPA score.
- If you already have a scholarship, include documentation showing it does not cover all study expenses.
- Certificate from your university confirming enrollment, program, duration, expected degree, and grading system.
- Motivation letter addressed to CDF’s Executive Director, outlining your academic and conservation interests, commitment, and skills.
- Updated CV or résumé.
Additional information
- During the application evaluation process, additional documentation may be requested if necessary.
- A socioeconomic analysis will be conducted as part of the scholarship award process.
- In the event of a tie in applicants' scores, priority will be given to those with greater financial need.
- Selected scholarship recipients will be required to provide a guarantee of commitment fulfillment.