Nonprofits to Watch This Shark Week
- MissionEB
- Jul 25
- 2 min read
Shark Week isn’t just about thrilling footage and deep-sea drama—it’s also a great reminder of the real-life heroes working to protect our oceans every day. From rescuing sea turtles to fighting plastic pollution and defending misunderstood predators like sharks, these mission-driven organizations are doing the hard (and often underfunded) work of marine conservation.
Whether you're passionate about research, outreach, or just love the sea, these nonprofits offer meaningful careers where you can make a splash in the world.
Check out a few standout orgs making waves below!
Saving the Blue
Founded by marine biologist Dr. Tristan Guttridge and shark advocate Andy Casagrande, Saving the Blue focuses on restoring ocean health by protecting and studying threatened marine species—especially sharks. Their work blends scientific research with public education to inspire change and encourage sustainable practices.
Fins Attached Marine Research and Conservation
Fins Attached conducts research, promotes conservation, and supports sustainable management of sharks and other marine life. Through scientific expeditions and shark tagging programs, they work to influence policy and ensure that sharks are protected for generations to come.
Shark Angels
Shark Angels is on a mission to save sharks through education, advocacy, and action. They focus on changing public perception, influencing policy, and protecting shark species around the world. Their grassroots approach empowers individuals to become shark advocates in their own communities.
MOTE Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
MOTE is a globally recognized research organization that combines marine science with public outreach. From coral reef restoration to shark population studies, MOTE scientists work on the front lines of ocean conservation and education, offering hands-on experiences that inspire the next generation.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a nonprofit focused on sea turtle rehabilitation, ocean conservation, and community education. They care for injured turtles and use their stories to teach visitors and students about marine ecosystems and sustainability.
Surfrider Foundation
The Surfrider Foundation protects clean water and healthy beaches through grassroots activism, legal action, and local chapters. They focus on plastic pollution, beach access, coastal preservation, and water quality across the U.S. coastline.
Ocean Conservancy
Ocean Conservancy works at the intersection of science and policy to protect the ocean from today’s greatest threats. Their programs include tackling ocean plastics, advancing climate solutions, and promoting sustainable fisheries, all while building coalitions for large-scale change.
Start Your Career During Shark Week
Whether you’re inspired by science, sustainability, or just really love sharks, there’s a nonprofit on this list that could use your passion and talent. Shark Week might only last a few days, but the fight to protect our oceans is year-round.
Explore their career pages, follow their work, or find a way to get involved—because protecting marine life starts with all of us.
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