80%
of our annual budget goes to
Science and Education
» learn more

The Leakey Foundation is pleased to announce we were given an 80% Efficiency Rating during our most recent audit.

This means the 80% of our annual budget is granted to scientists and used for our educational programs.

In the American Institute of Philanthropy’s view, 60% or greater is reasonable for most charities and the most highly efficient charities are able to spend 75% or more on programs.

From the AIP website: "AIP is a nationally prominent charity watchdog service whose purpose is to help donors make informed giving decisions."

We spend the remaining percentage on fundraising efforts and general administration.*

* AIP has not officially rated The Leakey Foundation.

Home > Grants > Applying

Research Grants vs Baldwin Fellowships

Our General Research Grant program funds research related specifically to human origins and evolution, including paleoanthropology, genetics, primate behavior ecology and morphology, and studies of modern hunter-gatherer groups. Applicants must have a Ph.D or be advanced to candidacy in a Ph.D program. The maximum award for Ph.D Candidates is $13,500 per year. The maximum award for PhDs is $22,000 per year.

Franklin Mosher Baldwin Memorial Fellowships are intended for scholars and students with citizenship in a developing country who wish to obtain an advanced degree from an institution outside the student’s home country. This award is for a program of approved advanced special training or studies leading towards an M.A or Ph.D. It is limited to two years of support. The maximum award is limited to $12,000 per year.

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For your Consideration

Please consider the below if you are thinking of applying for a General Research Grant:

  • Is my research relevant to human origins and evolution?
  • For Ph.D candidates: Will I be advanced to candidacy before the deadline for application?
  • Am I affiliated with an academic or research institution (we do not award funds to individuals)?
  • Am I fully compliant on all prior Leakey Foundation awards?

Please consider the below if you are thinking of applying for a Baldwin Fellowship:

  • Am I enrolled in a M.A, Ph.D or equivalent program related to the study of human origins or evolution?
  • Have I been accepted or have a provisional acceptance to a host institution?
  • Do I have financial assistance from the host institution?
  • Do I intend to return and work in my home country upon completion of training?

Begin your Application

Please visit the Research Grants page for more information and to begin your application.

Please visit the Baldwin Fellowships page for more information and to begin your application.