CFVI Opens Applications for 2026 Judith A. Towle Environmental Studies Fund

The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Judith A. Towle Environmental Studies Fund grant, which is awarded annually for innovative projects that address shared environmental concerns in the insular Caribbean. The Fund was established in 2003 with an endowment provided by The Mukti Fund in recognition of Judith Towle's efforts to advance environmental awareness throughout the Caribbean. A grant not to exceed $12,000 will be awarded in 2026.  

Applications are open to Caribbean residents, nonprofit organizations based in or working in the Caribbean and graduate students conducting applied research focused on the insular Caribbean. Eligible activities include research, internships, workshops, seminars, citizen science initiatives, publications and other environmental education efforts. 

“At CFVI, we believe meaningful change begins when our community has the resources to turn ideas into action,” said CFVI President Dee Baecher-Brown. “By investing in innovative projects, we’re helping protect the natural and cultural resources that define our islands while empowering individuals and organizations to create lasting, positive change across the Caribbean.”

In recent years, the fund has supported a variety of impactful initiatives across the Caribbean. In 2025, the Nevis Historical and Conservation Society received funding to restore the ecological and cultural character of Gallows Bay through a youth-led coconut grove and red mangrove restoration. The St. Croix Science Teachers Association received funding in 2024 to engage students in a citizen science project to address the spread of the invasive Tan-Tan plant through research, environmental education and community partnerships. In 2023 and 2022, individuals in Cuba and Puerto Rico utilized the funding to execute projects focused on protecting wildlife and native plants. 

“Preserving the Caribbean’s natural environment requires curiosity, collaboration and a willingness to think beyond individual islands,” says Towle. “Whether restoring coastal and marine habitats, engaging young people in scientific research or exploring new approaches to conservation, these efforts demonstrate the power of local leadership to create lasting regional impact.”

Applications will be accepted until September 15, 2026, and should be submitted by email to general.info@cfvi.net. Grant recipients will be notified no later than October 30, 2026. 

For more information about the Judith A. Towle Environmental Studies Fund, including eligibility, how to apply, and application requirements, please visit the Judith A. Towle Environmental Studies Fund website at www.cfvi.net/Judith-A-Towle-Environmental-Studies-Fund.  For other grant opportunities, visit www.cfvi.net. 

About The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands

The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) is the leading philanthropic organization in the U.S. Virgin Islands, dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders. Since 1990, CFVI has served as a trusted steward of charitable resources, partnering with donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to support a wide range of initiatives across education, health, youth and family services, the environment, disaster recovery, and the arts and humanities. With more than 150 active funds and a deep commitment to equity and resilience, CFVI drives impactful, data-informed grantmaking and community investments that strengthen the territory today and for the future. For more information, visit www.cfvi.net.