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Unlock the Field

How to Fundraise for a Life-Changing Student Expedition 

Imagine your students tracking elusive owls through the forests of the American West or measuring the effects of climate change from sea to summit in Acadia National Park. These are the kinds of unforgettable, hands-on moments that �������� expeditions make possible—experiences that can transform how students view science, the planet, and their potential. 

Educators juggle a lot—but many find that planning and fundraising for student travel is not only possible, it’s gratifying. 

We’ve partnered with teachers across the country who’ve successfully brought their students into the field through creativity, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. Whether you're just starting or refining your approach, here’s how to make it happen—and why it’s worth every step.

How Teachers are Making it Work 

Raising thousands of dollars might seem daunting—but you’re not alone. With student energy, community support, and a clear story, it’s more than possible. In fact, fundraising often becomes part of the learning journey.

1. TELL A COMPELLING STORY. 

Successful fundraising starts with the “why.” Take the time to communicate the purpose of the expedition—what students will do, why it matters, and what they’ll take home from the experience. You don’t need to oversell it. Just be specific, honest, and enthusiastic. Include impact stats and personal connections where you can. 

A short video or info night with students and families can go a long way. When people understand the vision, they’re more likely to support it. 

2. BREAK DOWN THE BUDGET. 

Break down the full cost of the trip and show how each piece contributes to the learning experience. Include travel and expedition costs. This builds trust—and helps donors see their role in making the trip possible. 

Tools like or are great for creating easy-to-share visuals. 

3. EMPOWER STUDENT LEADERSHIP.

When students take ownership of the fundraising process, they gain valuable skills—and campaigns tend to raise more. Encourage your group to brainstorm and lead efforts, like: 

• Bake sales or farmers’ market tables 
• Community clean-up days with donation jars 
• Sponsor-a-student campaigns using platforms like GoFundMe 
• Local restaurant nights with a percentage of sales donated 

Peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns that incorporate personal storytelling or video content tend to raise significantly more than those that rely solely on text. The key? Make it personal. 

4. LAUNCH A CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN WITH EARTHWATCH.

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School groups can create a custom Expedition Fund page, make a small kickoff donation, and share their story with friends and family.

Start early and tie your campaign to moments, such as birthdays, holidays, or school events, to boost support. It’s an excellent way for students to take ownership—and build skills in storytelling and outreach along the way.

Learn More about Expedition Funds

5. RALLY YOUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY.

You’re not alone in this. PTAs, school foundations, and local organizations often want to help—they need to know how. Some can match donations or offer small grants. Others might help promote your campaign or provide in-kind support like supplies or space.

Don’t hesitate to ask. The worst they can say is no—and often, they’ll say yes. 

6. SEEK GRANTS FOR STEM TRAVEL.

STEM-focused travel experiences—such as environmental research programs, science expeditions, or technology immersion trips—offer students hands-on learning far beyond the classroom. To help make these opportunities more accessible, several organizations provide grants specifically for student groups engaged in STEM education and travel. 

Even modest grants can help cover transportation, expedition fees, or supplies.  

Here are a few worth exploring: 

These grants can help fund travel, materials, and expedition costs—opening doors for students to explore STEM in real-world settings. Be sure to align your application with the grantor’s goals, such as equity in education, innovation, or environmental impact. 

• Provides funding for innovative, student-led STEM projects. Larger grants ($5,000 and up) can support travel-related expenses when aligned with hands-on learning and research. 
• Although highly competitive and often tied to institutions or nonprofits, some NSF-supported programs provide funding for group travel to support student participation in STEM camps, competitions, or fieldwork. 
• Supports educators and schools expanding STEM learning opportunities, including project-based programs that may involve travel for research or competitions. 
• Funds science and environmental education programs that incorporate experiential learning components, such as group travel or fieldwork.

These grants can help fund travel, materials, and expedition costs—opening doors for students to explore STEM in real-world settings. Be sure to align your application with the grantor’s goals, such as equity in education, innovation, or environmental impact.