Collaborative Capacity Program for Forests & Communities Grants

The Collaborative Capacity Program for Forests and Communities is a competitive grant initiative funded through federal resources via the U.S. Forest Service and administered in partnership with the National Forest Foundation. The program is designed to strengthen collaborative efforts that support forest stewardship across the United States, particularly in areas connected to National Forest System lands. The initiative reflects a broader federal commitment to advancing shared decision-making, increasing community engagement, and fostering partnerships that improve wildfire resilience, watershed health, recreation opportunities, and rural economic vitality. A specific emphasis is placed on enhancing Tribal co-stewardship and incorporating diverse perspectives into land management planning. The primary purpose of the program is to fund collaborative processes rather than direct implementation activities. Grants are intended to support the development of relationships, planning frameworks, and coordinated strategies that enable stakeholders to co-create solutions for forest and land management challenges. Activities may include convening stakeholders, facilitating dialogue, conducting collaborative assessments, and building governance structures that support long-term cooperation. However, the program explicitly prohibits the use of funds for on-the-ground project implementation, advocacy, litigation, or political organizing, reinforcing its focus on planning and collaboration rather than execution. Eligible applicants include federally recognized Tribal governments and Tribal organizations, nonprofit organizations, local government entities, and institutions of higher education. Organizations that do not meet these criteria may still participate through a qualified fiscal sponsor that meets eligibility requirements. The program is open to applicants nationwide, provided that proposed activities demonstrate a clear benefit to National Forest System lands. This geographic flexibility allows for a wide range of collaborative initiatives, as long as they are aligned with federal land stewardship goals. The funding structure provides awards ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 dollars, with an anticipated total of 10 to 15 awards issued in the current cycle. All applicants are required to provide a 20 percent non-federal match, which may be fulfilled through cash or in-kind contributions. The period of performance for funded projects is expected to begin in October 2026 and extend for up to 12 months. This timeline supports short-term collaborative efforts that can lay the groundwork for longer-term implementation or future funding opportunities. The application process opens in February 2026 and includes several key engagement opportunities for applicants. An informational webinar and question-and-answer session is scheduled for March 26, 2026, providing general guidance on the program. Additionally, a separate question-and-answer session specifically for Tribal applicants will be held on June 16, 2026. These sessions are intended to clarify eligibility and application requirements but do not constitute required pre-application steps for submission. The program includes distinct submission deadlines based on applicant type. Community partner applicants, which include nonprofits, local governments, and academic institutions, must submit their applications by May 4, 2026. Federally recognized Tribal applicants are given an extended deadline of July 13, 2026. Funding decisions are expected to be announced in October 2026. Applicants are encouraged to contact program staff in advance of deadlines to confirm eligibility and ensure alignment with program priorities, though such consultation is optional and not a formal requirement for submission.

Applicants are encouraged to contact program staff early to confirm eligibility and alignment with program priorities to avoid disqualification