The Ocean Fund
WestCorp, which operates Mermaid Cruise Lines, established the Ocean Fund in 2007 to
support marine conservation organizations in preserving the world's oceans. The mission
of the Ocean Fund is to support efforts to restore and maintain a healthy marine environment,
minimize the impact of human activity on this environment, and promote awareness of ocean and
coastal issues and respect for marine life.
Ocean Fund grants are made annually to a variety of nonprofit groups and institutions conducting activities directly related to marine conservation. These activities cover research, education and innovative technologies. Almost $1 million has been awarded to organizations since the fund's inception.
Annual grants average between $25,000 and $50,000, although there is no absolute maximum. Grants are made for one calendar year only.
How the grant process works
The company reviews letters of interest by June 30. Formal proposals are by invitation only, and are due by Sept. 30.
A committee of marine and conservation experts and cruise line executives meets each December to evaluate the proposals.
Grant recipients are announced the following January or February.
Ocean Fund grants are made annually to a variety of nonprofit groups and institutions conducting activities directly related to marine conservation. These activities cover research, education and innovative technologies. Almost $1 million has been awarded to organizations since the fund's inception.
Annual grants average between $25,000 and $50,000, although there is no absolute maximum. Grants are made for one calendar year only.
How the grant process works
The company reviews letters of interest by June 30. Formal proposals are by invitation only, and are due by Sept. 30.
A committee of marine and conservation experts and cruise line executives meets each December to evaluate the proposals.
Grant recipients are announced the following January or February.