In just a few short years, the ecotourism industry, if it can already be called that, has developed a regular revenue stream. Among the sources of income in addition to actual ecotourism travel, are Rufford Small Grants for Nature Conservation, established so that small conservation programs and pilot projects can be pursued with less worry about funding.

Funding such as Rufford grants certainly helps get the industry started. But ecotourism will probably not be pursued near the major cities that have been tourist destinations for years. For those who want to take part in an , there are a few "deals" available, though the costs remain rather because this is still a new field and the sites are often remote.

To stimulate growth, more than eight years ago projects began receiving financial support from a foundation named for Rufford Maurice Laing. Grants from this organization are distributed to individuals and small groups, with one year as the usual length of grant work. According to information from the grant agency, applications from the "developing" world are encouraged.

As with all grant programs, it is necessary to determine whether the project is eligible under the grant guidelines. Comparison to ongoing projects is a good idea, because this effort will help applicants understand what is successful. Rufford grants generally will not finance long-term activity, not only because the grants are limited to $10,000 but also because the early goal of the grant program is the study of options for a one-year period. Grants are intended to those who are not residents of "first world" countries - the wealthiest, most developed societies.

Rufford grant judges expect projects to be feasible and measurable, of course, but the key factor is that grant funds are intended to further the growth of ecotourism as a legitimate industry. The application process includes some stringent requirements, with accuracy a key factor. All applicants must also supply references from three persons or agencies that support the applicant in the serious use of funds for ecotourism.

But those who might be interested in Rufford Small Grants should keep two key items in mind: the grants do not go to "first world" applicants and they are not to be used for pure research, expeditions, conferences or seminars. In the case of the first restriction, the grants are intended to encourage building the ecotourism idea in less developed countries and at locations where more traditional tourism might negatively impact local resources and culture.

One of the primary goals of reviewed Rufford grants is the encouragement of field work in conservation, with emphasis on new skills and conservation education. Areas of the globe that are somewhat economically undeveloped are also prime targets of grant funds. One example that might be ideal for use of these funds: animals in their natural habitat that might be the focus of ecotourism because of the interest of individual travelers.

Grant funds could also be used to study threatened environments as well as to conduct studies on indigenous plants, insects or other resources. In general, Rufford Small Grants seek practical and significant projects that will have a long-term impact on ecotourism issues.