According to its 2025 annual report, the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) claimed its role was to “remove barriers…so conservation can move faster, further, and with lasting impact.” Several strategies it listed included “Directing Resources” between conservationists and projects, “Building…Relationships” between conservationists and supporters, and “Strengthening Conservation” through investing in mentorships and peer networks. 2
The WCN claims to partner with conservationist organizations and local networks to promote environmentalist policies and initiatives. According to its website, as of 2026 the WNC claims to have 28 conservation partners, over 20,000 local staff and volunteers, and 92 protected species listed. 3
Financials
According to its 2024 tax return, the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) reported $56,733,972 in revenue, $49,289,995 in expenses and $56,366,130 in net assets. 4 According to its website, as of 2026 WCN claims that it has raised $451 million since its founding while funding over 1,200 projects. 5
Charles “Charlie” Knowles is the co-founder and president of the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN). Knowles was previously the founder of software company Rubicon Technology in 1989 before selling it in 1994. 13
Rebecca Patton is the vice president of the WCN. Patton previously worked as a regional director and chief conservation strategies officer at The Nature Conservancy. Patton is a former member of the board of the Idaho Conservation League, the Wood River Land Trust, and Point Blue Conservation Science. 14
Jean-Gael Emptaz-Collomb is the CEO of the WCN, where he formerly worked as executive director and director of conservation programs. Emptaz-Collomb is a former American Association for the Advancement of Science policy fellow with the National Science Foundation, a former technical and research assistant at the Wildlife Conservation Society, and a former manager of the global forest watch Central Africa for the World Resources Institute. 15
To safeguard rhinos and their landscapes in Africa and Asia, helping the species to improve their health and benefit people living alongside them through the Rhino Recovery Fund.
To support the Rhino Recovery Fund to resource community projects in and around protected areas that encourage wild rhino populations in Africa and Asia.
$1,000,000
2020
Oak Foundation
To support the launch of a new rhino Recovery Fund to resource community projects in and around protected areas that will encourage wild rhino populations in Africa and Asia. Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) is a US-based not-for-profit organisation founded in 2002. It raises funds to support field-based conservationists using innovative methods to protect wildlife.
To equip emerging leaders working in Amazonia with the skills, networks, and confidence to step into effective conservation leadership roles through their participation in a two-year leadership development program.
