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Rainforest Trust

Annual Giving
$17.6M

Quick Stats

  • Annual Giving: $17.6 million (2024 expenses)
  • Success Rate: Not publicly available
  • Decision Time: Not publicly available
  • Grant Range: Not publicly disclosed
  • Geographic Focus: Tropical forests in Africa, Asia, and Latin America

Contact Details

Overview

Founded as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Rainforest Trust has protected over 58.9 million acres of tropical habitat globally, with an additional 80 million acres currently in progress. With 2024 revenue of $18.5 million and total assets of $123 million, the organization focuses on purchasing and protecting threatened tropical rainforests through strategic partnerships with local conservation organizations. Led by CEO Dr. James Deutsch, Rainforest Trust aims to more than double their level of funding by 2030, emphasizing their unique model of allocating 100% of donations directly to conservation action while operating in 49 countries worldwide.

Funding Priorities

Grant Programs

While Rainforest Trust mentions an "Apply for Funding" option on their website, specific grant program details, amounts, and application processes are not publicly detailed. The organization appears to fund partner organizations through relationship-based partnerships rather than open grant competitions.

Priority Areas

  • Protection of endangered species habitat in tropical rainforests
  • Land purchase for private nature reserves
  • Establishment of legally-recognized protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries)
  • Strengthening legal rights of Indigenous Peoples and local communities
  • Climate change mitigation through forest protection
  • Conservation projects that benefit local communities

What They Don't Fund

Not explicitly stated in available sources.

Governance and Leadership

  • Chief Executive Officer: Dr. James Deutsch (Compensation: $242,832 in 2023)
  • Chief Finance Officer: Melissa Hohimer
  • Past Board Chairs: Dr. Eric Veach and Dr. Bernie Tershy

Dr. James Deutsch has stated that the organization aims to "more than double our level of funding between now and 2030," indicating significant growth plans for their conservation efforts.

Application Process & Timeline

How to Apply

This funder does not have a publicly detailed application process. While their website mentions "Apply for Funding," specific application procedures, requirements, and eligibility criteria are not publicly available. Grants appear to be made through strategic partnerships with established conservation organizations in tropical regions.

Getting on Their Radar

Based on their partnership model, organizations seeking funding should:

  • Be established conservation organizations operating in tropical forest regions of Africa, Asia, or Latin America
  • Have demonstrated expertise in land conservation and protected area management
  • Show capacity for community engagement and working with Indigenous Peoples
  • Focus on projects that protect habitat for threatened species

Decision Timeline

Not publicly disclosed.

Success Rates

Not publicly available.

Reapplication Policy

Not publicly specified.

Application Success Factors

Based on Rainforest Trust's strategic priorities and funded projects:

  • Organizations working in the 49 countries where Rainforest Trust operates have the best alignment
  • Projects that can demonstrate measurable conservation outcomes (acres protected, species safeguarded)
  • Initiatives that create permanent, legally-recognized protected areas
  • Strong local partnerships and community engagement components
  • Projects addressing both biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation
  • Demonstrated track record in tropical forest conservation

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

  • Rainforest Trust appears to operate primarily through invited partnerships rather than open grant applications
  • Focus on strategic partnerships with established local conservation organizations
  • The organization has significant financial resources ($123 million in assets) but funding access appears relationship-based
  • Priority is given to projects creating permanent legal protection for tropical forests
  • Strong emphasis on measurable conservation outcomes and species protection
  • Organizations should demonstrate expertise in tropical forest conservation and local community engagement
  • Direct contact may be necessary to explore partnership opportunities given the lack of public application information

References

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