A Genetic Genealogy Project is a group of genealogy researchers who share a surname, or a genetic connection, and who join together to use DNA testing, paper trails, and research to identify those with whom they share a common ancestor.

The aim for many participants is to identify a participant who "matches" their test results, and who can help them find the paper trail that leads further back up the family tree. When the DNA information is combined with family pedigrees and other relevant information, the full power of Genetic Genealogy is utilized.