What is the Trebek Initiative?

The Trebek Initiative is a grant-making partnership between the National Geographic Society and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS). Our mandate is to ignite a passion to preserve across Canada. Accordingly, we only fund projects where the impact is distinctly felt in Canada.

What types of projects does the Trebek Initiative fund?

The Trebek Initiative funds projects in four categories: storytelling, research, conservation and education. Projects must overlap with at least one of our five focus areas, including land, water, wildlife, culture and history. To learn more about the types of projects we have funded in the past, click here.

What are the eligibility criteria for applicants?

You must be 18 or older to apply. Your project start date must be at least six months after the submission deadline. You don’t need to be a Canadian Citizen or a permanent resident to receive a Trebek Grant, though residency is preferred. You may submit a proposal as the project leader for only one project at a time.

When do you accept applications?

For those who applied in October 2023, please note that awards will be announced no later than March 1st, 2024.

UPDATE: The Trebek Initiative will be accepting applications again in October 2024 with funding decisions to be announced in March 2025. The exact deadline will be announced this summer.

As a reminder, the National Geographic Society is accepting applications in spring 2024. Those submissions are due by 11:59 P.M. EDT on April 11th, 2024 with funding decisions to be announced in September 2024. Click here to learn more.

How can I apply?

To submit your application, click here. Please note, you will be redirected to National Geographic’s website and will be prompted to create an account. If you are applying for less than $25K CAD, please select the Level 1 Preapplication. If you are applying for more than $25K CAD, please select the application category that best suits your project (i.e. storytelling, research, conservation or education).

When are the awards announced?

Awards are announced roughly five months after the deadline. Those who applied in October 2023 will be notified of decisions by March 1st, 2024.

What are the budget guidelines?

The Trebek Initiative funds projects up to a maximum of $100K CAD. Since the National Geographic Society oversees our review process and they’re based in the United States of America, we ask that you submit your budget in USD and ensure it doesn’t exceed $75K USD.

While we understand that you may need to cobble together funding from a few sources, we ask that you clearly state what components you are proposing that the Trebek Initiative fund.

For more information regarding budget guidelines and permissible line items, please click here.

What makes a competitive application?

Before submitting an application, please review our eligibility criteria and budget guidelines. Ensure you describe the impact of your project and why you are the best person to lead it. Build a strong team and clearly articulate their roles. Where possible, work with local collaborators and Indigenous Groups. Ensure your project outputs are clearly described with SMART goals (specific, measurable, assignable, realistic and time-related).

Can I resubmit an application for a project that has been declined?

No. You may only resubmit a declined project if you have been invited to do so by a member of the Trebek Initiative team. That said, all applicants may reapply with net-new projects.

What types of benefits will I receive as a Trebek Grantee?

Trebek Grantees receive access to our 360 development program including capacity building opportunities (mentorship programs, networking invitations), education modules (impact storytelling coaching) and amplification support (via founding Societies’ media assets, and education/media partners ). Select Trebek Grantees will also earn the title of National Geographic Explorer, including access to an additional suite of resources and tools.

Can I apply for both a Trebek Initiative grant and a National Geographic grant in the same cycle?

You cannot apply for both grants in the same cycle. You must choose one stream. Please note, when you apply for a grant from the Trebek Initiative, you are automatically considered for the title of National Geographic Explorer, which includes access to National Geographic’s suite of explorer resources and tools. When you apply for a grant from the National Geographic Society, you are not automatically considered for the Trebek Initiative.

I have a few more questions. Who can I speak to?

Please reach out to info@trebekinitiative.com and our team would be happy to answer any of your outstanding questions.