Urban sprawl, resource extraction, and poorly enforced environmental regulations place enormous pressures on natural resources. A healthy world needs a combination of outright protections, sustainable use policies to ensure clean air, clean water, and healthy land. The geographic focus of this area will be the southeastern United States, with priority given to the Southern Appalachians and the states of Tennessee, North Carolina, Kentucky, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.

Specifically, the Fund welcomes proposals that:

• Advocate for and secure public financial resources and commitments to land protection.
• Demonstrate community engagement and certified sustainable management of land particularly concerning forestry and farming.
• Provide leadership to existing and emerging coalitions that build a multi-stakeholder voice.

The Merck Family Fund will make funding decisions in May and November. LOIs will be reviewed on a rolling basis through the online application system. If invited, full proposals must also be submitted through our online application system. MFF cannot accept LOIs and proposals submitted via email, fax, or postal mail. 

May 2023 decision deadlines:
LOI by January 10, 2023 at 5 pm EST.
Full proposal no later than January 28, 2023 at 5 pm EST.

November 2023 decision deadlines:
LOI by July 10, 2023 at 5 pm EST.
Full proposal no later than July 28, 2023 at 5 pm EST.