The Leading Award for Animal Conservation

A World of Impact

Big Ideas For Wildlife. Bold Impact for Indianapolis.

Founded by the Indianapolis Zoo in 2004, the Indianapolis Prize honors extraordinary conservationists whose work protects species, prevents extinction and inspires hope for the future of wildlife around the globe. Today, it stands as the world’s leading award for animal conservation. 

From remote field sites to the global stage, the Indianapolis Prize shines a light on the individuals protecting the future of wildlife. 

A Legacy of Conservation Leadership

Since 2004, the Indianapolis Prize has elevated the world’s leading conservationists while bringing global attention to the urgent work of protecting wildlife and preventing extinction. Explore three decades of impact.

Dr. Steve Amstrup, USGS biologist, and assistant Karyn Rode preparing a radio collar to be fitted to a female polar bear on the Beaufort Sea ice pack. Kaktovik, Alaska
A Rigorous Global Selection Process

The Indianapolis Prize honors conservationists whosework demonstrates measurable impact for wildlife and species survival. Honorees are selected through a rigorous, two-stage juried process led by respected experts in conservation science and global wildlife leadership. This process ensures recipients represent the field’s highest achievements while reinforcing the integrity, credibility and global significance of the Prize.

Voices of Conservation

Hear directly from Indianapolis Prize winners as they share what this global recognition means to their work, their mission and the future of wildlife conservation.

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