A Decades-Long Mission for the Forgotten Thirty-Three.
Our Origin: Built on Stability, Not Haste.
The concept for Zoo-EV was born in 2010. However, we believe that conservation is too important to be built on a fragile foundation. Instead of rushing to solicit public donations, we spent over a decade operating as a privately funded entity.
In late 2022, we formally incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We did this only after our systems were stress-tested and our “Circular Funding Model” was finalized. We didn’t want your first donation to go toward building our infrastructure—we wanted our infrastructure to be ready to protect your first donation.
Closing the "Charisma Gap"
In the world of conservation, funding is often dictated by “charisma.” While tigers and lions rightly receive millions in support, there are 33 species of small wild cats—from the Flat-headed Cat to the Kodkod—that are slipping toward extinction in the shadows.
Zoo-EV exists to bridge this funding gap. Our goal is to raise $40,000,000 annually to provide stable, permanent funding for all of the species, ensuring that the “fear of a lack of funding” never stops a scientist from saving a species.
The Force Multiplier Model
It is important to understand what Zoo-EV is—and what it is not.
- We are not a field agency: Zoo-EV does not directly employ researchers, field personnel, educators, or scientists.
- We are a Support Engine: Our goal is to identify, expand, and empower existing organizations and independent experts who are already on the front lines.
Direct-to-Mission Funding: We do not send “blank checks.” We pay vendors directly for the technology (laptops, cameras, NAS systems) and materials (predator-proof housing, educational posters) that researchers need to succeed.
We aren’t just funding today’s science; we are seeding tomorrow’s breakthroughs. We actively encourage young learners and students to pursue scientific careers focused specifically on the 33 lesser-known species.
While the world may have enough tiger experts, it is waiting for the world’s leading expert on the Black-footed Cat.
That could be you.
Zoo-EV does not seek or accept government grants. We believe that conservation is a choice that should be made by individuals and private companies—not by bureaucratic mandates. We are funded by the people, for the species, governed by our members.
Become a Voice for the Voiceless
Every day, wild cats around the world face threats like habitat loss, poaching, and natural climate progression. But hope isn’t lost. With your support, we can protect these majestic animals and preserve their habitats.
Join our growing community of wildlife champions and help create a safer future for all 40 wild cat species.
