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 will the 5th anniversary fund be supporting?

The 5th anniversary fund will support storytellers, researchers, conservationists, educators and innovators who are working on projects that impact water, wildlife and land in Canada.

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 grant from the Trebek Initiative, though residency is preferred.

• The 5th Anniversary Fund RFP is only open to those who have previously received a grant from the National Geographic Society and have earned the title of National Geographic Explorer.

How can I apply?

To submit your application, click here.

When is the application deadline?

The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET.

When will the awards be announced?

Awards are announced in December 2025 with funding to follow in March 2026.

What are the budget guidelines?

The maximum budget for this RFP is $20K CAD. Our standard budget guidelines apply to this RFP. To review our policy, including permissible line items, please click here. To review a budget template, click here.

What makes a competitive application?

Before applying, 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.

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

Successful applicants will receive access to our 360 development program, including funding, mentorship and networking opportunities, project amplification support, along with opportunities to present their work for national and global audiences.

Can I apply for both a 5th Anniversary grant and a standard Trebek Initiative grant?

The Trebek Initiative’s annual RFP is now open to the public, with a deadline of October 29, 2025. You may submit an application for both RFPs. You may apply with the same project for both RFPs, or different projects. If you apply with different projects, being selected for one does not disqualify you from the other. However, if you submit the same project to both RFPs, you can only be selected once.

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.