Understanding HSCF’s Grant Process, Requirements & Impact
At the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF), we believe in supporting meaningful conservation initiatives, education programs, and efforts that preserve the future of hunting. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our grant-making process is one of the most direct ways we live our mission:
To preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage.
If you’re wondering how to apply, who qualifies, or what responsibilities come with being an HSCF grantee, this guide will walk you through the process.
The Application: Who is Eligible and How to Apply
HSCF’s conservation grants are open to individuals and organizations that align with our mission and values. We provide funding for a variety of projects, including:
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Habitat improvement
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Wildlife research studies
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Outdoor educational programs
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Youth hunter education and outreach initiatives
Who Can Apply:
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U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations (NPOs)
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Academic institutions
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Qualified conservation professionals and educators
Application Process:
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Review your project goals to ensure alignment with HSCF’s mission.
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Download and complete the grant application form at hscfdn.org/grants.
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Submit your completed application by the first day of the month preceding a review quarter:
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February 1 for March review
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May 1 for June review
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August 1 for September review
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November 1 for December review
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If you do not have an HSCF sponsor, simply write “No Sponsor” in that section of the application.
Our team is happy to assist with questions during the submission process.
Our Review Process: How Projects Are Selected
All applications are carefully evaluated by the HSCF Grants Committee and our Board of Directors. We take our responsibility to our donors seriously, and we apply a rigorous vetting process to ensure financial stewardship and maximum donor impact.
Selection Criteria:
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Alignment with HSCF’s conservation and education mission
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Clearly defined goals and measurable outcomes
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Feasible project timeline and appropriate budget
- Ability to execute the project with transparency and accountability
- Potential for lasting impact in the fields of conservation, education, or hunting heritage
Our goal is to fund high-impact efforts that advance our collective mission as hunter-conservationists.
From Funding to Final Report: Ensuring Donor Impact
Being selected for a grant is an honor—and a responsibility. HSCF requires all grant recipients to follow a set of accountability guidelines to ensure transparency, measurable success, and the continued trust of our members and donors.
HSCF Grant Recipient Guidelines:
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Maintain records of how all grant funds are spent
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Submit a final report within one year of the grant award—or upon project completion
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Credit HSCF in all public mentions of the project and funding sources
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Provide an article and photographic documentation of the project (HSCF retains permission to use this content)
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Funds must be used solely for the approved project—no exceptions
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No portion of grant funds may be used for lobbying, political purposes, or Indirect Costs (IDC)
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Additional or ongoing funding requires a separate application
Noncompliance with these terms will result in ineligibility for future funding.
By following these expectations, grantees help us demonstrate the power of ethical funding and real-world impact.
Your Next Step
If you’re ready to bring a conservation or education idea to life—and you’re aligned with the mission of the Houston Safari Club Foundation—we invite you to apply for a grant.
Grant applications are accepted year-round, but make sure to meet the deadlines ahead of our quarterly review process.
Start your application today at hscfdn.org/grants
Together, we can continue to protect wildlife, teach the next generation, and preserve the legacy of ethical hunting.
