The National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS) administers the Animal Sanctuary Assistance Program (ASAP), providing critical financial support to animal sanctuaries, shelters, and rescues across the United States. Since its inception in 1998, the program has awarded millions of dollars to help thousands of animals, with grants focused on supporting facilities that rescue, rehome, and care for animals retired from research laboratories or facing emergency needs such as natural disasters or urgent medical requirements.

The NAVS ASAP grants are designed to provide immediate assistance to organizations without the delay and burden of launching independent fundraising efforts. The grants help cover the high costs associated with transitioning animals from research labs and providing ongoing care, medical needs, and facility support. NAVS highlights notable support to sanctuaries such as Chimp Haven, Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary, and Save the Chimps, and the program continues to grow in response to an increase in animals being retired from research due to the spread of post-research adoption laws.

Applicants interested in securing funding must download and submit a Sanctuary Grant Application available through NAVS’s website. Specific eligibility criteria include being a reputable sanctuary, shelter, or rescue operation based in the United States that can demonstrate the ability to responsibly care for animals coming out of research or emergency situations. The grant supports both urgent emergency needs and longer-term care initiatives.

The organization’s main office is located at 444 N. Wells St., Suite 406, Chicago, IL 60654. Applicants or those seeking more information can contact NAVS via phone at 800-888-NAVS (312-427-6065). There are no explicit deadlines mentioned, suggesting applications may be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, particularly in urgent cases.