What we do

Spark curiosity, empower exploration, inspire change

Science and exploration are our foundation — storytelling and education are our superpowers. 

We are a global non-profit that funds the best and brightest individuals around the world dedicated to our mission to use the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world.

Our Explorers are advancing new knowledge and leading conservation programs with outsized impact to protect nature, wildlife, and historical places. They’re documenting the wonder of our world—including its beauty, mystery, and the threats it faces—and inspiring people to care and act on behalf of our planet and its people.

A photographer in the Sierra Chincua monarch sanctuary.
1 k
Grants awarded to Explorers in 140 countries
1 %
All donations go directly to our Explorer-led programs
1 million
Young people reached each year through our educational offerings
Our Approach

Invest in passionate people
and impactful programs

We identify, invest in, and support a diverse, global community of National Geographic Explorers who exemplify our mission and form the heart and soul of the Society. Collectively, these 6,000+ bold individuals represent more than 140 countries and a vast array of backgrounds, perspectives, and fields. 

Our Explorers and Explorer-led programs focus on five areas of impact.
Our investments

Funding changemakers​

Support our work

Donors, partners, and supporters make our work possible. We are proud to share that 100% of donations go directly to our Explorers and innovative programs that are implementing cutting-edge science, powerful storytelling, and transformative education to drive significant impact.

Learn about grants and investments

It takes a global community to make our mission come to life. Our funding opportunities aim to empower an international community of Explorers to create a powerful new paradigm for transformative change and build a healthier brighter future for all.

Photo Credits from top of page: Kostadin Luchansky, Joel Sartore, Larry Levine (illustrations), Michael Nichols, Andy Mann. Below: Michael Nichols, Andy Mann, Paul Nicklen, Ami Vitale, Christian Tryon, Kenneth Garrett, Mark Thiessen.

Get updates about our critical work to explore and protect our planet.

GIVE TODAY!
The National Geographic Society is proud to invest in a global community of intrepid Explorers working to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Make a tax-deductible gift to support the Society today, and your support will help fund the next generation of changemakers.