Schuylkill Highlands Mini-Grant Program

The Schuylkill Highlands Mini-Grant Program is an annual funding initiative designed to support projects that advance the goals of the Schuylkill Highlands Conservation Landscape in southeastern Pennsylvania. The program is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and administered by Natural Lands, a nonprofit conservation organization. Through this partnership, the program seeks to strengthen regional collaboration and enhance natural, recreational, and cultural resources across the landscape. The initiative reflects a coordinated effort to promote environmental stewardship, community engagement, and sustainable economic development within the defined geographic region. The primary purpose of the mini-grant program is to provide financial assistance for projects that align with one or more of the program’s four central goals. These goals include connecting residents and visitors to outdoor spaces, encouraging nature-based tourism and sustainable local economies, promoting natural resource conservation, and increasing awareness and appreciation of the Schuylkill Highlands Conservation Landscape. Eligible projects are expected to demonstrate a clear connection to these objectives and provide tangible benefits to the region’s environment and communities. Funding through this program supports a broad range of project types related to conservation, recreation, and tourism. Examples of eligible activities include agricultural or stormwater best management practices, trail feasibility studies and construction, land stewardship and habitat restoration efforts, water quality improvement initiatives, and development of educational or promotional materials. Additional supported projects may include installation of signage, development of recreational amenities such as benches or bike racks, and planning or policy efforts that contribute to long-term conservation outcomes. All funded projects must be located within the designated boundaries of the Schuylkill Highlands Conservation Landscape, which includes portions of multiple counties in Pennsylvania. Eligibility for the mini-grant program is limited to municipal, regional, and county government agencies, as well as incorporated nonprofit organizations registered with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. Applicants are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and supporting documentation prior to submission and may consult with program staff to discuss project ideas. This pre-application engagement helps ensure that proposals are aligned with program priorities and meet all necessary criteria. The application process requires submission through an online portal, where applicants can save progress and return to complete their submission. Supporting materials such as project descriptions, budgets, and relevant documentation are required as part of the application. The program provides access to additional resources including terms, ranking criteria, and reporting templates to guide applicants through both the submission and post-award processes. Evaluation of applications is based on alignment with program goals, project feasibility, and anticipated impact within the conservation landscape. The application period for the current cycle opened prior to mid-May and was scheduled to close at 4:00 p.m. on May 14. As an annual program, the mini-grant opportunity is expected to recur in future years, providing continued support for conservation and community-focused initiatives. Applicants may contact the program manager for assistance or clarification during the application period. Award recipients are typically required to complete progress and final reports, ensuring accountability and documentation of project outcomes.

Align the proposal to at least one of the four program goals. Show clearly how the project advances conservation landscape objectives, falls within the eligible boundary, and provides public access if it is site-based. Keep total project costs at or below $50,000, document the 25% match with no PA DCNR-origin funds, and contact the program manager before starting the application.