VITAL IMPACTS

Vital Impacts is a women-led 501c3 non-profit organization that uses art and storytelling to amplify and support the work of communities who are protecting people, wildlife and habitats worldwide. The mission of our non-profit is to support both grassroots conservation organizations and the photographers and artists who work to tell critical environmental stories.

THE GRANTS

Our grants serve a dual purpose: to provide support and encouragement to visual storytellers embarking on long-term documentary photography projects, and to foster collaboration with local communities dedicated to environmental and wildlife conservation efforts.

Vital Impacts is proud to offer one $20,000 (US) grant to an established environmental photographer, along with six $5,000 (US) grants to emerging photographers from across the globe. These funds are specifically earmarked for the development of documentary projects focusing on environmental stories, with each grant supporting a separate photographer and project over the course of twelve months.

The aim of these grants is to spotlight solution-based environmental initiatives through visual storytelling. Recipients will have the opportunity to dedicate their time, guided by mentorship and intellectual freedom, towards producing a compelling body of work.

Throughout the twelve-month period, the Vital Impacts team and our mentorship community will provide ongoing support and guidance to grant recipients. By the conclusion of the grant period, it is expected that each recipient will have completed a comprehensive body of work ready for publication, showcasing the impact of their efforts on environmental conservation.

THE MENTORSHIPS

In addition to the grants, Vital Impacts will select ten emerging photographers to participate in an intensive mentorship program.

Over the span of twelve months, these selected individuals will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one sessions with industry experts, renowned photographers, and influential photo editors. Through these mentorship sessions, participants will refine their storytelling skills, receive guidance on navigating the industry, and establish vital connections.

By the conclusion of the mentorship program, these ten photographers will emerge with a deepened understanding of environmental photography, strengthened industry networks, and a compelling story ready for pitching or publication, marking a significant milestone in their professional journey.

REQUIREMENTS:

Vital Impacts is seeking out local photographers deeply embedded within their communities, possessing both the knowledge and passion to report on environmental issues, particularly those relevant to their own surroundings. We're on the lookout for individuals who can convey the complexities of environmental or conservation challenges, along with potential solutions. 

It's imperative that grant recipients focus on documenting a story within their own community. Our goal is to bolster local journalism, so we're specifically targeting photographers rooted in the communities they aim to spotlight. We won't be considering applications from photographers outside of the respective community or country. 

Applicants are encouraged to apply in their native language or in English. For proposals submitted in foreign languages, we'll arrange for translation services to ensure fair evaluation and consideration. 

All applicants must follow the Vital Impacts Code of Ethics and be able to agree to and sign our Environmental Grant Agreement. 

Grantee cannot be the target of sanctions or located or resident in a country, territory or region that is the target of comprehensive territorial sanctions. 

Prior publication experience is not a requirement. Vital Impacts is particularly interested in uplifting photographers who have been working on long term projects and who have existing relationships with the stakeholders in this issue.