Boating Safety Education Grant

The Boating Safety Education Grant is administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) as part of its broader mission to reduce boating accidents, mishaps, and fatalities through structured education and outreach. The program is funded through the Waterways Safety Fund, which is supported by boat registration fees, a portion of the state gasoline tax, and federal contributions from the U.S. Coast Guard. The grant is designed to support organizations that can deliver effective boating safety education programs that align with statewide safety priorities and compliance with Ohio boating laws. The primary purpose of the grant is to establish, develop, expand, and maintain boating safety education programs that improve knowledge and safety practices among boaters. Funded programs must clearly demonstrate alignment with at least one of several priority areas, including NASBLA-approved general boating education courses, skill development for non-traditional boating populations, programs for individuals with disabilities, and paddling rescue training programs. Each funded program must conduct a minimum of four courses per year and ensure that all on-the-water activities enforce mandatory life jacket use. Funding amounts for the program range from $1,000 to $60,000 per award, with a required minimum cost share of 25 percent of the total program budget. This cost share may be met through a combination of cash contributions, donations, in-kind services such as volunteer time, or donated equipment. Grant funds may be used for specific allowable expenses including training materials, books, classroom rental, and advertising, with advertising costs capped at $1,000 per grant. All expenditures, including matching contributions, must occur within the two-year program period. Eligible applicants include a wide range of public and nonprofit entities. These include political subdivisions such as state, county, and local governments, conservancy districts, state departments, public and state-supported educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations with valid 501(c)(3) status. Additional eligible entities include the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Association and U.S. Power Squadrons. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to deliver programming and meet reporting and compliance requirements. The application process requires applicants to clearly articulate how their proposed program meets the funding requirements and contributes to boating safety outcomes. While the specific application deadline is to be determined, ODNR typically offers a free workshop approximately one month prior to the deadline to assist applicants. After submission, applications are evaluated based on their potential effectiveness in improving boating safety and their alignment with program goals. Award notifications are generally issued in January or February, and successful applicants are required to attend a mandatory workshop during the winter. Grant recipients must comply with administrative requirements, including registering as suppliers with the State of Ohio through the OhioPays system, submitting an IRS W-9, and setting up direct deposit for fund disbursement. During the program period, recipients must obtain approval for any budget revisions, submit year-end reports detailing expenditures and program activities, and return any unused funds. Programs are also subject to monitoring through site visits and audits. For additional support, applicants may contact the Boating Education Grant Coordinator, Craig Watson, via phone or email. The program is recurring in nature, although specific annual deadlines may vary. Applicants are encouraged to monitor updates from ODNR and participate in preparatory workshops to improve their chances of success.

Ensure alignment with ODNR priority program types and clearly document cost share contributions. Deliver at least four courses annually and comply with safety requirements such as mandatory life jacket use.