By Ismah Ayomide Hassan
The Explorers Club is calling on pioneering individuals to enter its Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program. This initiative is carefully crafted to provide crucial support to explorers who are just starting their careers, helping them launch their very first major field projects into the world.
It’s a call to those with a burning desire to contribute to our understanding of the planet through direct experience.
The program’s core purpose is to fund truly unique and compelling projects that are primarily self-directed and adventurous.
It places a strong emphasis on physical discovery and exploration, seeking endeavors that will expand human knowledge of the world. This means the focus is on tangible, on-the-ground exploration rather than purely academic or social studies.
Successful applicants will receive vital financial backing for their expeditions, up to $10,000, which is intended to help cover the essential costs associated with venturing into new territories or conducting important scientific work.
Beyond the monetary support, recipients will also benefit from invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities directly from the Explorers Club.
This connection can open doors to a vast community of experienced explorers and scientists. Furthermore, those who succeed in this program will gain the advantage of being able to apply for the prestigious Rolex Explorers Club Grants Program in the years that follow.
Who can apply for the Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program
The Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program is looking for a specific group of budding explorers:
- Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old by the application deadline.
- Applicants must be citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, Nigeria, or the United Kingdom.
- The proposed project must be the applicant’s first major field expedition or scientific endeavor.
- Projects need to show a clear path to making a significant, real contribution to our knowledge through physical discovery and exploration.
- Projects cannot focus solely on social issues, historical research, or cultural studies unless they also include a strong exploratory or scientific part.
- Projects cannot be just for personal travel, adventure tourism, or filmmaking without a clear scientific or exploratory goal.
To be considered for the Enter the Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program, interested individuals must complete an online application form.
This submission requires a detailed project proposal, which should clearly outline the project’s goals, how it will be carried out, a realistic timeline, and a thorough budget. A well-organized plan is essential for demonstrating the project’s viability.
When and how to apply
The deadline to apply for the Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program is January 15, 2026. The announcement of the grant recipient is scheduled for April 1, 2026. Click HERE to apply. Explore our global opportunities page for more .
The Explorers Club is seeking applicants for the Stephenson Explorers Advancement Program, which supports early-career explorers in launching their first major field projects. The program focuses on funding unique, self-directed exploratory projects that emphasize physical discovery and contribute to understanding the world. Successful candidates receive financial support up to $10,000 and benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities within the Explorers Club community. These opportunities may lead to eligibility for the Rolex Explorers Club Grants Program.
Eligible applicants must be aged 18-30 and citizens of the US, Canada, Mexico, Nigeria, or the UK. Projects need a clear contribution to human knowledge through discovery and cannot solely focus on social, historical, or cultural studies unless coupled with exploratory aspects. Applications require a detailed proposal with specific goals, methods, timeline, and budget. The application deadline is January 15, 2026, with grant announcements on April 1, 2026. Interested individuals can apply online.
