Environment Grants

The U.S. Embassy Libreville of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to support Gabonese communities through modest grants that would positively impact communities. Program Objectives: Self-Help projects must foster community self-reliance. Self-Help activities must have community participation and contribution -- volunteer time and labor, donated land, equipment and materials -- and the U.S. contribution must be on a one-time basis only. Self-Help activities should have a significant impact, benefiting the greatest number of people possible. Projects that directly benefit a limited number of people are discouraged. Self-Help activities must help improve basic economic or social conditions at the local community or village level; Self-Help projects must also be viable and sustainable in terms of finance, personnel support (i.e. teachers for schoolrooms), and necessary expertise and services. Self-Help projects must also respect environmental norms for small projects. Self-Help activities must fall within the ability of the local community to implement. Activities that are too complex should be avoided.

This grant provides funding for National Estuarine Research Reserves to undertake coastal habitat restoration, planning, and land conservation projects that benefit coastal ecosystems and support underserved communities.

The purpose of this program is to support projects that will treat invasive plant infestations that threaten forested, woodland, or rangeland areas. The theme for the FY 2024 funding cycle is grasses and grasslands. Projects may occur on state, federal, tribal, and private lands in Arizona.  This program focuses on the prevention, control/removal, and eradication of invasive plants and aims to achieve the following objectives: Target and treat invasive plants that are capable of transforming native plant communities in forests, woodlands, deserts, or rangeland Assist in preventing fire and flooding, conserving water, and restoring habitat to wildlife Use an integrated weed management (IWM) approach when treating areas infested with invasive plants through the utilization of available tools, including manual, cultural, mechanical, chemical, and biological control methods Examples of eligible projects include: Control/removal or eradication of invasive plants Replacement of invasive plants with native plants through reseeding and planting Removal of woody invasive plant slash by mulching or grinding Examples of eligible costs include those in the following categories: Administrative labor Project labor Fringe benefits Travel Equipment Supplies Contractual Financial Notes: Match Notes: Applicants must provide at least 10 percent of the total project costs via cash and/or in-kind contributions. Priority may be given to projects that provide a higher-than-required match amount, not to exceed 50 percent. Specifically allowable matching contributions include: Cash paid by award recipients In-kind expenses, including necessary costs incurred by award recipients or other organizations to support the project Volunteer hours at a reasonable rate Donated labor and/or equipment necessary to complete the specific project Physical work performed by individual landowners on their own property Funding Notes: A total of $970,000 is available to support awards ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 through this program. Funds will be provided on a reimbursement basis. Awards are expected to be issued in fall and winter 2024/2025. Specifically, award announcements are expected around October 2024. Proposed projects should be ready for implementation upon receipt of award and should be fully achievable within the prescribed award period. Projects must be considered shovel-ready. Funds may not be used for: Research and development projects Website, geographic information system (GIS), and database projects Projects that only include assessment activity and no related treatment of invasive plants Projects that include purchase of capital equipment valued at over $5,000 per item Expenses incurred prior to execution of a formal written agreement between the funding agency and the award recipient Reimbursement of physical work performed by individual landowners on their own property Food or beverage purchases

This funding opportunity provides $10.6 million for innovative projects that improve floating offshore wind technology, targeting advancements in port infrastructure, transmission systems, and environmental monitoring tools.

The State of Arizona, USDA Forest Service and DOI Bureau of Land Management are expected to provide funding assistance to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management for fire prevention, critical infrastructure protection and forest and watershed restoration through reduction of hazardous vegetation from state, federal, tribal and private lands in Arizona. Total funding of approximately $3 million will be made available through sub-awards (grants) from DFFM on a reimbursement basis and awarded through a competitive process with emphasis on community protection and forest health. Multiple awards not exceeding $500,000 are expected. Organizations may submit more than one project application, but total funding may be limited to $500,000. Priority will be given to projects that support private industry and/or Arizona’s wood products industry. Priority will be given to projects that have not received prior treatments. Financial Notes: Total funding of approximately $3 million will be made available through sub-awards (grants) from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management on a reimbursement basis and awarded through a competitive process with emphasis on community protection and forest health. Awards will be limited to a minimum of $60,000 and maximum of $500,000 per project. Depending on total available funding, some projects may be offered only partial funding. All projects will require a 10% - 30% match contribution (ie: 90% Grant + 10% Match = 100% Project Total). Match source must be identified in the project application. Larger requests will require larger match contributions.  Priority will be given to projects that support private industry and/or Arizona’s wood products industry. Priority will be given to projects that have not received prior treatments. Proposals not meeting minimum match requirements will impact the overall score. Funds will be dispersed to recipients on a reimbursement basis after they incur cost and report accomplishments and expenses to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. For more information, please refer to the Request for Applications_NOFO form.

This funding program provides financial support for projects that improve water quality and restore ecosystems in California's Delta region, benefiting local communities and the environment.

The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by REAP (Resource Enhancement And Protection), is a competitive grant program supporting cities across Iowa in developing parks and open spaces. This initiative is a core component of the Iowa Legislature's commitment to enhancing the state's natural resources and recreational opportunities, aligning with a broader mission of environmental stewardship and community well-being. The funding originates from gaming revenues, demonstrating a strategic allocation of state resources towards public amenities and green infrastructure. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the cities within Iowa, which receive the financial support to undertake park and open space development projects. Ultimately, the residents of these cities, as well as visitors, benefit from improved access to recreational areas, enhanced natural environments, and greater opportunities for outdoor activities. The impact goals center on fostering healthier communities, preserving biodiversity through open spaces, and boosting the quality of life for Iowans by creating accessible and engaging public spaces. The grant prioritizes the development of parks and open spaces, explicitly excluding certain types of facilities. Projects that do not qualify for funding include athletic fields, organized sports facilities, swimming pools, and playground equipment. This focus indicates an emphasis on broader, more naturalistic or passive recreational areas rather than specialized sports or play infrastructure. The grant also highlights its commitment to equitable distribution by allocating funds across cities of various sizes, ensuring that both large and small communities have opportunities to benefit. The expected outcomes include the successful development and enhancement of numerous city parks and open spaces across Iowa. Measurable results would involve the number of new or improved park acres, the types of new amenities created (excluding the proscribed items), and potentially an increase in public engagement with these spaces. The program's design, which requires no local matching funds, removes a significant barrier for many communities, increasing accessibility and the likelihood of successful project implementation. The strategic priority is to leverage state gaming revenues to directly improve local community infrastructure related to environmental and recreational assets, embodying a theory of change where targeted state investment leads to widespread local environmental and social benefits. Applications for this program are due by August 15, 2024.

The Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC) is offering Climate Smart Land Stewardship Grants to increase the number of acres in Connecticut managed with climate smart practices. This initiative directly aligns with the CLCC's mission, which is dedicated to land conservation and stewardship of conserved lands within Connecticut. The grant program seeks to encourage land trusts to adopt practices that enhance the land's ability to sequester carbon, provide ecosystem services, and adapt to changing environmental conditions, thereby contributing to broader environmental resilience goals. The primary target beneficiaries for these grants are tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)3 whose mission is dedicated to land conservation and/or stewardship of conserved lands, operating within or including the State of Connecticut, and are current members of CLCC. The impact goals are to significantly expand the use of climate smart land stewardship practices across Connecticut, fostering a more resilient and sustainable landscape. The program prioritizes projects that develop climate smart land stewardship plans, establish pollinator habitats, manage invasive species followed by native plantings, manage forests for improved wildlife habitat and oak regeneration, establish wildlife corridors, increase riparian forest buffers, and implement agricultural practices that enhance water quality and soil health. These focuses are designed to achieve tangible environmental improvements and promote long-term ecological health. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of acres managed using climate smart practices, improved carbon sequestration and storage, enhanced ecosystem services, and greater resilience of land to environmental disturbances. Measurable results will be tracked through the successful completion of planning grants within 12 months and the implementation of funded projects. The program's theory of change posits that by providing financial support and encouraging best practices, CLCC can significantly accelerate the adoption of climate-smart strategies, leading to a healthier and more sustainable Connecticut landscape. Funding is available for two types of grants: Planning Grants with a maximum award of $8,000, and Implementation Grants with a maximum award of $50,000. Planning Grants must be completed within 12 months, emphasizing a timely progression from planning to action. This structured approach ensures that the grants translate into concrete, on-the-ground changes that align with the CLCC's strategic priorities for land conservation and climate resilience.

The Iowa Legislature, through its REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) funds, offers a cost-share grant program primarily focused on land acquisitions. This program dedicates one-tenth of the Open Spaces portion of REAP to partner with private organizations for land acquisition, covering 75% of the costs. The remaining 25% is expected to be funded through private contributions. The core mission of this grant is to facilitate collaboration between private conservation groups and the state to achieve dual objectives: providing outdoor recreation opportunities for the public and protecting critical habitats across all Iowa counties. This aligns with a broader strategic priority of fostering public-private partnerships for environmental stewardship and enhancing public access to natural resources. The primary beneficiaries of this program are private conservation groups seeking to acquire land for conservation and recreation purposes. Ultimately, the impact extends to the general public in Iowa, who gain access to expanded outdoor recreation areas, and to the diverse ecosystems within the state, which benefit from enhanced habitat protection. The program's goals are centered on increasing the amount of protected land and improving access to natural spaces, thereby contributing to the state's environmental health and residents' well-being. The program's priorities and focus are clearly on land acquisition, specifically through a cost-sharing model. It emphasizes the importance of private contributions to complement state funding, encouraging a collaborative approach to conservation. The state's role in managing the acquired properties on behalf of the public after acquisition underscores a commitment to long-term stewardship and public benefit. The grant is not limited to specific counties but is available across all counties in Iowa, indicating a broad and inclusive approach to conservation efforts throughout the state. The expected outcomes of this grant program are a measurable increase in protected land acreage within Iowa and the expansion of outdoor recreational opportunities for its citizens. By covering a significant portion of land acquisition costs, the program aims to incentivize and enable more private conservation groups to undertake such projects. Measurable results would include the number of acres acquired, the types of habitats protected, and the accessibility of new recreational sites. This aligns with a theory of change that posits that by financially supporting private conservation efforts and ensuring state management, significant environmental and recreational benefits can be achieved for the public good.

This funding opportunity supports projects that improve water quality and restore ecosystems across California, targeting local governments, non-profits, and other organizations involved in watershed management and environmental conservation.

The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by the Iowa Legislature via REAP funds derived from gaming revenues, is a competitive grant program allocating 15% of REAP funds to cities across Iowa. The primary mission of this program is to support the creation and enhancement of city parks and open spaces. This aligns with a broader strategic priority to invest in community green infrastructure and quality of life initiatives within the state. The target beneficiaries of this grant are cities throughout Iowa, with grant distributions based on city size categories. The program's impact goals center on fostering healthier, more vibrant communities by increasing access to and improving the quality of natural recreational areas. It specifically excludes athletic fields, sports facilities, pools, and playgrounds to maintain a focus on passive recreation and natural landscapes. The program's priorities and focus are clearly defined: to support city parks and open spaces. This includes projects that enhance biodiversity, provide environmental benefits, and offer residents opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation. The competitive nature of the grant ensures that funds are directed towards projects demonstrating the greatest potential for impact and alignment with the program's objectives. Expected outcomes include an increase in the total acreage of protected and improved parkland and open space within Iowa cities. Measurable results could include the number of new or renovated park facilities, increased public engagement with green spaces, and enhancements to local ecosystems. The underlying theory of change is that by investing in natural public spaces, the program will contribute to improved public health, environmental sustainability, and overall community well-being, reflecting a strategic belief in the value of accessible green infrastructure.

This grant program is designed to support conservation efforts within Iowa counties. It targets counties that demonstrate a commitment to conservation by allocating at least 22¢ per $1,000 of taxable property value towards such initiatives. The overall mission alignment of this program is to foster environmental stewardship and resource protection across the state, ensuring that local governments have the necessary funding to implement impactful conservation projects. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the Iowa counties themselves, specifically their conservation departments or entities responsible for managing natural resources. Indirectly, the residents of these counties and the broader environment benefit from the projects undertaken. The impact goals include enhancing natural habitats, preserving critical ecosystems, and providing educational opportunities related to environmental conservation. The program prioritizes a range of activities, including land acquisition for conservation purposes, capital improvements that benefit natural areas, direct resource protection efforts, and environmental education initiatives aimed at raising public awareness and promoting sustainable practices. Notably, the program explicitly excludes funding for sports complexes, playgrounds, and dog parks, maintaining a clear focus on core conservation activities. It also sets specific requirements for multi-use and biking trails, ensuring they align with broader conservation objectives. Expected outcomes include an increase in protected natural areas, improved ecological health of county lands, and greater public engagement in environmental issues through educational programs. Measurable results could include the acreage of land acquired or improved, the number of individuals participating in environmental education, and the specific conservation gains achieved through resource protection projects. The application process requires detailed project descriptions, maps, budgets, and compliance with ADA and civil rights regulations, ensuring that projects are well-planned and accountable. Submissions for this grant are due by August 15, 2024.

This program provides funding to Iowa's local governments for the construction and improvement of public boat access facilities at lakes and streams.

This program provides funding to states for projects that maintain, develop, and improve recreational trails, benefiting local communities and outdoor enthusiasts.

This funding opportunity supports local governments in beautifying roadside areas along primary highways by providing financial assistance for planting seeds or live plants.

The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by 15% of REAP funds derived from gaming revenues, is a competitive grant program administered by the Iowa Legislature. This program is designed to support cities across Iowa in developing and maintaining their park and open space areas. The mission of this grant program aligns with fostering community well-being and environmental stewardship by providing accessible green spaces for public use. While not explicitly stating a foundation, the grant operates with a strategic priority of enhancing public spaces within cities through a state-level funding mechanism. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are cities across all counties in Iowa, which then, in turn, benefit their residents by providing enhanced recreational and natural areas. The overarching impact goal is to improve the quality of life for Iowa citizens by increasing the availability and quality of public parks and open spaces. This goal is achieved through the allocation of funds based on city size categories, ensuring equitable distribution and impact across different community scales. The grant prioritizes projects that focus on the development and improvement of city parks and open spaces, with a clear exclusion of facilities for organized sports, athletic fields, pools, and playgrounds. This focus ensures that the funds are directed towards passive recreational areas and natural spaces, promoting a specific type of outdoor engagement. The program's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial incentives for cities to develop and maintain these specific types of public spaces, the overall health, happiness, and connection to nature for residents will improve. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and quality of accessible city parks and open spaces throughout Iowa. While specific measurable results like the number of new parks or acres of open space created are not detailed, the competitive nature and funding distribution by city size suggest an intent for widespread improvement. The grant's no-local-matching-funds requirement also serves to ensure that smaller or less affluent cities are not excluded, thereby maximizing the reach and impact of the program across the state. Applications for this grant are due by August 15, 2024.

This grant provides funding to state and territory Coastal Zone Management Programs for projects focused on restoring coastal habitats, planning and designing restoration efforts, and conserving coastal lands, with an emphasis on benefiting tribal, indigenous, and underserved communities.

This program provides funding to local governments and private organizations in Iowa for the development and maintenance of trails and parks for all-terrain and off-road vehicles.

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan's grant program is designed to inspire charitable giving and support Catholic parishes, schools, and nonprofit organizations. The Foundation's core mission is to assist donors in investing in the future of these entities by providing grants that align with Catholic teachings and serve communities primarily in Michigan. The program seeks to empower organizations whose values and behaviors are consistent with Catholic principles, ensuring that funded projects contribute to the broader goals of the Catholic faith community. The grant program targets a wide range of beneficiaries within the Catholic sphere, including Archdiocesan, religious, or parish-sponsored nonprofit organizations, local nonprofit organizations adhering to Catholic Social Teaching, and various Catholic educational and formation initiatives. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the Catholic community in Michigan by addressing vital social service needs, fostering vibrant parish life, and enhancing Catholic education and spiritual development across all ages. The program aims to create a strong, welcoming, and supportive environment for individuals to encounter Christ and grow in their faith. The Foundation focuses its grants on three major areas: Empowering Social Outreach, Building Vibrant Parish Life, and Fostering Catholic Education and Formation. In social outreach, the priority is to respond to essential social service needs such as food, shelter, and medicine, leveraging both internal and external organizations aligned with Catholic Social Teaching. For vibrant parish life, the focus is on creating welcoming Catholic parishes, supporting resource development for community outreach, and encouraging training and new staff positions. In Catholic education and formation, priorities include supporting innovative faith formation, fostering high-quality ministries for various age groups, improving access to parochial schools, and promoting leadership development. The expected outcomes of the grant program are multifaceted, aiming for tangible improvements in the communities served. Measurable results could include increased access to social services for vulnerable populations, enhanced participation and engagement in parish activities, and improved quality and accessibility of Catholic educational and spiritual development programs. The Foundation's strategic priorities are rooted in the Gospel call to serve others, the importance of the parish as a faith community's home, and the value of lifelong Catholic education and formation. This theory of change suggests that by investing in these key areas, the Foundation can contribute to a more robust, compassionate, and spiritually enriched Catholic presence throughout Michigan.

The EPA is seeking additional applications from eligible public and private nonprofit entities (see eligibility described in Section III.A of the Notice of Funding Opportunity) to assist current or prospective EPA grant recipients more effectively address their grant progress and performance requirements oftheir EPA-funded grant agreements. Reporting requirements involve gathering data, administering reports, and addressing evidence-building metrics.Applicants also may place special emphasis on aiding EPA-funded recipients and subrecipients of Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water programs, as well as grant recipients representing small, underserved, and/or tribal communities that are applying for or receiving EPA grant funding, including but not limited tofunding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Further details are described in the announcement.