SPRINGFIELD, IL – Organizations across Illinois have until Thursday, May 15, to apply for funding through the State Furbearer Fund Special Funds Grant Program, offering support for projects that benefit wildlife and expand opportunities for hunters and trappers.
According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the grant program is open to not-for-profit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and corporations working on initiatives tied to furbearing mammals. The program is designed to enhance conservation, education, and responsible harvesting across the state.
Furbearing mammals covered under the program include species such as beaver, bobcat, coyote, raccoon, mink, muskrat, otter, and fox, among others. Projects eligible for funding may focus on public education, training for hunters and trappers, scientific research, or the development and improvement of habitat management areas within Illinois.
According to IDNR, applicants must first register through the state’s Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) portal before submitting proposals. Applications are being accepted online through the Amplifund system, where users can also browse additional state funding opportunities.
The agency encourages early submission to avoid last-minute issues with registration or documentation. Questions or technical assistance can be directed to IDNR staff via email.
The State Furbearer Fund is part of Illinois’ broader conservation effort, which supports wildlife management and outdoor recreation across roughly 400 state-managed sites, including parks, historic locations, and natural areas.
With the deadline approaching, eligible groups are urged to finalize applications to secure funding for projects that could shape wildlife conservation and outdoor education efforts across Illinois this year.
