Call for Proposals

The Arthropoda Foundation's call for expressions of interest will remain open until August 15. Any questions may be directed to grants@arthropodafoundation.org.

Application Timeline: 

• Expressions of Interest are due on August 15, 2026

• Invitations to submit full proposals will be sent by September 15, 2026.

• Full proposals are due on November 15, 2026.

• Notifications of awards will be made by December 15, 2026.

Grant Amounts: 

• Standard: Up to $10,000 USD

• Exceptional Cases: Up to $50,000 USD

Insects are farmed in vast numbers globally. A growing body of research suggests that these animals may be sentient (i.e., capable of valenced experiences like pain). If they are sentient, then it is important to learn how to improve their welfare in current production systems.

The Arthropoda Foundation welcomes proposals for empirical work on farmed insect welfare. We strongly favor research that has a clear path to implementation.

Possible projects may include, but are not limited to:

• Evaluating humane slaughter and depopulation methods

• Assessing strategies for mitigating negative welfare consequences of high stocking densities

• Validating new welfare indicators

• Developing husbandry SOPs with welfare in mind

• Assessing the welfare implications of genetic modification

Eligibility & Review Criteria

Any scientist affiliated with a university or comparable research institution with appropriate experience and access to appropriate equipment for their project is eligible (in most geographic locations). An exception is that we are unable to fund research carried out in nations subject to sanctions by the United States or researchers who are residents of those nations. Please note that the Arthropoda Foundation does not provide funding for indirect costs or institutional overhead. 

We evaluate proposals based on the following considerations: 

• Technical Appropriateness: Well-designed projects with appropriate sample sizes, statistical analysis, and experimental design 

• Application: Projects that are readily able to be applied in a commercial context

• Fit with Priority Area: Projects focusing on large-scale welfare challenges facing insects

• Welfare Impact: Projects targeting the most severe welfare concerns

• Co-benefits: Projects with scientific co-benefits, such as validating new welfare indicators

• Interdisciplinary and industry-inclusive collaborations: Projects that include welfare scientists, entomologists, and industry partners

Submit your application >>