Free the Bears Ltd
About
Free the Bears is an Australian wildlife conservation and animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting vulnerable bear species in Asia, including sun bears, moon bears (Asiatic black bears), and sloth bears. The organization operates sanctuaries in Cambodia and Laos, works to combat the illegal wildlife trade and bear bile farming, and conducts research and education programs to protect wild bear populations.
Tips for Applicants
As a specialized wildlife conservation organization focused specifically on bears in Asia, prospective partners should demonstrate direct impact on bear welfare, strong local government partnerships, and measurable conservation outcomes. Given the organization's hands-on operational approach, funding requests should align with their existing sanctuary and field programs rather than general conservation work.
Giving Philosophy
Free the Bears focuses on direct intervention to rescue bears from cruel conditions such as bile farms and the illegal wildlife trade, providing long-term care in purpose-built sanctuaries while also working to protect wild populations through government partnerships, research, and community education.
ACNC Financial History
| Year | Grants Given | Revenue | Total Assets | Net Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY2023 | $1.4M Unknown AU + $1.4M intl | $1.6M | $1.9M | $1.6M |
| FY2022 | $1.1M Unknown AU + $1.1M intl | $2.4M | $1.9M | $1.7M |
| FY2021 | $1.2M Unknown AU + $1.2M intl | $1.8M | $1.1M | $1.0M |
| FY2020 | $1.4M Unknown AU + $1.4M intl | $2.3M | $805K | $671K |
| FY2019 | $839K Unknown AU + $839K intl | $1.3M | $222K | $30K |
| FY2018 | $1.0M Unknown AU + $1.0M intl | $816K | $179K | $-188,442 |
| FY2017 | $1.2M Unknown AU + $1.2M intl | $1.6M | $409K | $201K |
| 7yr total | $8.1M | Source: ACNC Annual Information Statements | ||