American Association Of
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) is a Silver Spring, MD–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 55-0526930) that accredits and supports zoos and aquariums and advances animal care, conservation, and education.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
An AZA member or similarly mission-aligned zoo, aquarium, marine mammal center, or wildlife conservation organization running projects in endangered species recovery, population management, or related conservation programs.
Good Fit
- • Work on endangered species recovery, population management, or marine conservation.
- • Institutional capacity to manage mid- to large-sized grants (e.g., $25K–$1M+).
- • Organizational profile similar to zoos, aquariums, or wildlife centers.
- • Projects that align with AZA program areas such as population management centers or emergency species relief.
Geography
The latest observed year shows grants across 25 states with national reach; while California accounted for a large share of dollars, funding is distributed widely rather than limited to a single metro or state.
Recipient Variety
The latest year funded 48 distinct organizations (and prior years show 101 and 26 recipients), and the latest year included 35 new recipients, indicating a broad and diverse recipient set for this funder.
New Applicants
Behavioral evidence shows many new recipients in the latest year (35 new grantees) and a large total recipient base across the three-year record, which suggests unfamiliar applicants can realistically enter the portfolio; the organization also lists program contacts and an online grant portal in its contact information.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
