Sustainable Jersey Grants Program

The Sustainable Jersey Grants Program, funded by the PSEG Foundation, is a well-established initiative that has provided over $8.4 million in funding to support sustainability efforts in New Jersey municipalities and school districts since 2009. The program aims to help local governments implement projects that advance their progress toward Sustainable Jersey certification and improve environmental, economic, and community well-being across the state. The PSEG Foundation’s contribution of $240,000 for the 2026 grant cycle continues a long-standing partnership with Sustainable Jersey, exemplifying the role of public-private collaboration in promoting grassroots environmental action. This grant cycle focuses on supporting municipal projects that can earn points under the Sustainable Jersey certification framework. Eligible applicants must be New Jersey municipal governments that are registered or certified with Sustainable Jersey and have an appointed green team that meets program standards. Municipalities with open or outstanding past grants must fulfill specific conditions to remain eligible. Applicants can apply for either a large grant ($20,000 or $10,000) or a $2,000 green team support grant—or both—with the understanding that only one award may be received per municipality. The grants can be used for a wide array of sustainability-focused activities including staff stipends, consultant fees, equipment purchases, educational materials, project supplies, and community outreach tools. However, facilities and overhead costs are ineligible, and promotional items are capped at 10% of the proposed budget. Additional incentives are available for select energy-related initiatives such as EV infrastructure and pursuit-class police electric vehicles. The grant program encourages the use of matching or in-kind contributions, though they are not required. Applications must be submitted via the Sustainable Jersey online grant portal no later than 11:59 PM on Friday, February 13, 2026. Applicants are required to complete two application sections by the deadline, with a third grant authorization resolution due by March 16, 2026. A resolution template is provided, and early adoption is advised. For those applying for a $20,000 or $10,000 grant, a project team list, community engagement strategy, and a detailed evaluation plan are required components. Grants are awarded by a Blue Ribbon Selection Committee based on a detailed evaluation rubric, which considers project clarity, team qualifications, feasibility, community involvement, and budget soundness. Up to 50% of funds are reserved for certified municipalities. Grant notifications will be issued in late April, with funds disbursed in May. Large grant recipients will receive an initial $5,000 payment, with the remainder contingent on satisfactory project completion and reporting by November 26, 2027. Recipients of $2,000 grants must complete their projects and submit a final report by May 28, 2027. Technical assistance is available for project planning and grant application. Sustainable Jersey also offers several resources, including webinars, guides, and sample materials. For questions or support, applicants are encouraged to contact Kaitlyn Vollmer at 609-771-3189 or via email at grants@sustainablejersey.com.

Apply for both grants to increase chances. Use in-kind support and low-cost resources. Avoid funding contingencies. Engage community stakeholders.