Applications are Open! Small Grant Program for Bear Conservation

Jos Krynen – Eagle Eye Adventures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Commercial Bear Viewing Association Expands Small Grant Program with $500,000 Raised for Bear Conservation.

Coast Salish Territory, July 15, 2025 -The Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA) is proud to announce another year of its Small Grant Program for Bear Conservation, launched in response to the closure of the grizzly bear hunt in 2017. With more than $100,00 raised annually, the program is a testament to the dedication of bear viewing operators and their commitment to wildlife stewardship.

In 2024, the program funded eight initiatives aimed at conserving and understanding bear populations and their habitats, and reducing human-bear conflict. Now in its second year, the CBVA is inviting a new round of applications from organizations across British Columbia.

“Reviewing last year’s applications was both inspiring and challenging. It was incredibly encouraging to see so many dedicated organizations and individuals working to do good things for the bears of British Columbia.” Said Kathy MacRae, Executive Director of the CBVA. “We look forward to seeing this year’s applicants, as well as the positive impacts our current recipients make throughout the year”. 

The CBVA Small Grant Program for Bear Conservation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, supporting projects that enhance bear habitats, promote sustainable bear viewing, mitigate human-bear conflict, and advance research into bear behaviour and ecology.

Applications are open now and will close on October 31, 2025.

The program is open to:

  • Non-profit organizations
  • Indigenous governments or organizations
  • Research institutions
  • Coalitions
  • Registered charities

Eligible projects include:

  • Research on bear behaviour, distribution, and ecology
  • Habitat restoration and enhancement
  • Community-based initiatives addressing human-bear conflicts
  • Conservation education and outreach programs
  • Sustainable tourism practices promoting ethical bear viewing

To learn more about the application process, funding criteria, or how to get involved as a donor or supporter, please visit www.bearviewing.ca.

Whether you’re a conservationist, researcher, or community leader, your work can help shape a more sustainable future for bears in British Columbia and beyond. Join us.

For further inquiries, please contact:
Mollie Cameron, Operations Assistant
Commercial Bear Viewing Association
604-762-7751
operations@bearviewing.ca
www.bearviewing.ca

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