Indianapolis Prize Announces Expansion with New Award for Emerging Conservationists

Officials from the Indianapolis Prize – the world’s leading award for animal conservation – announced a new award recognizing conservationists early in their careers.

The Emerging Conservationist Award – made possible through a grant from the Kobé Foundation – was created by the Indianapolis Prize Steering Committee to identify and support conservationists under 40 years of age with the talent and determination to make a significant impact on saving an animal species or group of species. The Winner of this Award will receive $50,000 to invest in their conservation work.

“The Indianapolis Prize is a prestigious global award that supports the work of conservationists who have had a significant impact on saving an animal species,” said Dr. Rob Shumaker, President & CEO of the Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc. “I’m thrilled this new award will keep promising young conservationists active in the field. This Award serves as a catalyst to energize the next generation of animal conservationists.”

The inaugural Emerging Conservationist Award will be presented at the 2023 Indianapolis Prize on Sept. 30, 2023 at the Prize Gala in Indianapolis. To be considered for the Emerging Conservationist Award, applicants must submit their applications and supporting materials prior to Feb. 25, 2022. Applications are available in Spanish, French, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian and Arabic.

“I’m thrilled by the announcement of the new Emerging Conservationist Award,” said 2021 Indianapolis Prize Winner, Dr. Amanda Vincent. “Knowing young conservationists will follow in my footsteps, along with other Prize Winners and Finalists, provides a deep sense of joy. It’s wonderful to know these young leaders will continue to advance important work to save species while also inspiring a new generation to protect our natural world.”

Please send an email to Nomination@indianapolisprize.org to request an application for the Emerging Conservationist award. The deadline for completed applications for the Emerging Conservationist must be submitted by Feb. 25, 2022. To request an application in Spanish, French, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian or Arabic you must submit your request to Nomination@indianapolisprize.org no later than Jan. 4, 2022.