GRASP is a Partnership is made up of great ape range states and other interested countries; the biodiversity-related Multilateral Environmental Agreements; United Nations institutions; international and national great ape conservation non-governmental organizations and private sector institutions.

A number of GRASP Patrons works to give the Partnership the required political support and prominence in the world arena.  The GRASP secretariat is responsible for the day to day functioning of the Partnership with advice from an Executive Committee. A Scientific Commission ensures the application of sound conservation science with a Technical Support Team providing the necessary technical backup.