Cold Noses Foundation: grants for animal welfare organisations in Europe, application window 1 to 31 January 2027

The Cold Noses Foundation has opened its grant call for non-governmental animal welfare organisations. The programme provides financial support for initiatives that protect domestic pets, wildlife, and farm animals, with an emphasis on regions where animal welfare is in critical need and where projects engage the local community.

Funding amounts are decided on a case-by-case basis by the Foundation’s Board of Directors, which may award partial funding depending on resource allocation. Applications for this call cycle are open from 1 to 31 January 2027.

Only small and medium-sized organisations with an annual income of 200,000 USD or less during their previous fiscal year are eligible to apply. Individuals, private foundations, and political or religious entities cannot receive funding.

What is funded

The Foundation funds special projects focused on the humane treatment of animals, finding homes, providing non-lethal alternatives to euthanasia, and delivering veterinary care for needy families or organisations. It also supports humane education initiatives and community outreach that benefit domestic pets, wildlife, and farm animals.

Priority is given to initiatives that pull high-risk animals from kill shelters or other lethal situations, reach multiple animals, and possess sustainable characteristics. Grant requests must focus on medical care, supplies, and education or community outreach. Please note that as of April 2026, the Foundation has suspended funding for spay and neuter proposals.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants must be registered non-governmental organisations working to enhance the lives of homeless and neglected animals. The applicant’s reported revenue in the last fiscal year cannot exceed 200,000 USD, excluding in-kind gifts. US-based non-profits must hold 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Funding is not available to individuals, private foundations, religious causes, or political entities. Furthermore, organisations that discriminate, attempt to influence legislation, or have connections to Cuba, Iran, Sudan, or Syria are disqualified. The donor also verifies that associated individuals do not appear on the US OFAC list of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons.

Conditions and requirements

Grant recipients must track and account for all expenses, submitting proper receipt documentation through the foundation’s online reporting system. The donor explicitly notes that any misuse of funds will result in mandatory full reimbursement and reporting to governing authorities for fraud.

The Foundation requires applicants to submit previous calendar year financial records, including balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and cash flow reports. Board members reserve the right to inspect accounting records and conduct on-site visits or teleconference interviews to review the actual use of granted funds.

Practical tip. Ensure your financial documentation is fully reconciled and transparent before applying, as the Foundation strictly enforces its 200,000 USD revenue limit and requires line-item receipts for all disbursements.

How to apply

Applications must be completed and submitted directly through the online application form on the Cold Noses Foundation website. Submissions outside the designated solicitation period or outside the approved proposal categories will not be reviewed.

Submissions will be evaluated against eligibility guidelines and mission alignment. In some instances, the Board of Directors may award funds below the requested budget amount to distribute resources effectively.

Applications are submitted on the donor’s page: coldnosesfoundation.org.