About the Wildcat Foundation
The Wildcat Foundation was established in 2011 by David Bonderman (1942–2024) to advance the protection of wildlife on the premise that successful conservation depends on ensuring its safety and security.
Today, David's vision is being carried forward by his family, whose continued leadership and commitment sustain the Foundation's mission to protect wildlife through effective conservation and security initiatives.
Africa's wildlife is under acute pressure. Environmental crime has reached levels that threaten the survival of entire species, driven by actors who exploit a wide gap between high profits and low risk. Conservation organisations face increasingly professionalised criminal networks that operate across borders with speed and sophistication.
The Wildcat Foundation's response is to resource the full conservation law enforcement ecosystem. Wildcat combines technical and strategic expertise with financial commitment, aligning its support with the long-term success of the projects it backs. Its operating model spans advocacy, partnership building, thought leadership, and financial support. It equips organisations with the tools, expertise, and partnerships they need to succeed against well-organised adversaries.
Over $170 million distributed in grants and support since 2011, championing best practices in conservation law enforcement.
- 38 Sites
- 26 Countries†
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Kurt Steiner
Kurt leads the Wildcat Foundation, having previously been its Deputy Director, bringing firsthand understanding of the urgent challenges facing vulnerable wildlife across the continent. Kurt entered conservation in 2009 after serving in the Australian military, and was the first Head of Law Enforcement for African Parks. Kurt holds a Master’s degree in Intelligence and Security Studies, and his insights on conservation security have been featured in prominent publications.
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Nicola Turner
Nicola has 10 years’ experience in protected area conservation, providing project design, budget management, and analysis functions to projects focusing on wildlife crime, conservation law enforcement, human rights, and information management. She supports The Wildcat Foundation’s programmes through research and assessments, helping bridge plans and outcomes, and providing support to grantees.
The Wildcat Foundation is supported by a legal and financial team, and makes use of independent consultants with specific subject matter expertise.