Environment Grants

This funding opportunity provides financial support to current NIH awardees to expand their research projects in response to urgent health challenges arising from emergencies or disasters.

Although the pelagic ocean is the largest ecosystem on earth, it remains poorly characterized and understood due to its vast size and three-dimensional, highly dynamic nature (e.g., Perelman et al. 2021). Most oceanographic programs concentrate upon the surface ocean because plankton and larval fish are concentrated there. Very little of the water column below the epipelagic (0200 m) has been described in any detail (Netburn 2018). However, we know that important processes occur throughout that water column, such as the biological pump (Passow and Carlson 2012), diel vertical migration (Sutton 2013, Kelly et al. 2019), other mechanisms for connectivity (Sutton 2013), and food web dynamics (Choy et al. 2017). As industries move to deeper waters of the OCS, it is imperative to learn more about potential impacts to these habitats, specifically sites of commercial interest. Water column information can be collected by traditional oceanographic equipment, especially when supplemented by new techniques and technology. In addition to physical and chemical profiles of the water column, Conductivity-Temperature-Depth (CTD) rosette casts can collect water samples to evaluate the biological community through eDNA sampling. Cameras can also be integrated onto CTD rosettes to help image these pelagic environments for which the deeper habitats are rarely visualized. This study is intended to fund the integration of a complementary water column component into planned marine mineral and offshore wind-related research cruises in locations of potential commercial interest. There are two cost-effective near-term opportunities for at-sea data collection to support the proposed study objectives in the fall of 2024. One is a planned August 26 September 16 NOAA-led benthic habitats AUV survey on NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada out of Newport, Oregon that is focused on areas of interest for offshore wind in northern California and southern Oregon. The second is a September 10 October 07 USGS-led multibeam and box core cruise on the R/V Kilo Moana out of Honolulu, Hawaii that will assess the abundance and composition of abyssal manganese nodules at the southern extreme of the OCS south of Hawaii. There appear to be several substantive outyear opportunities in 2025 and beyond to add a mid-water component to anticipated NOAA cruises in areas of interest for both offshore wind and critical minerals. BOEM will work with the award recipient to secure sample collection opportunities on select outyear opportunities. The scope of water column operations on each cruise will be designed in consultation with cruise Chief Scientists to address the highest priority mid-water environmental information needs while taking into account any pre-existing science plans and available planning horizon. For example, optical sensors (e.g., high-definition cameras, shadowgraphs) could be deployed when primary science operations are done for the day, or a smaller system could be integrated onto a CTD rosette to simultaneously collect imagery without needing dedicated wire-time. Data from the at-sea efforts will contribute significantly to baseline knowledge of pelagic systems that are highly dynamic and difficult to study. With industries moving into deeper waters further offshore, these water column data are necessary to understand environmental conditions and associated natural variation. For example, baseline environmental data can improve our understanding of environmental risks and potential impacts of floating offshore wind, such as changes in organism behavior and displacement (Maxwell et al. 2022). Additionally, current seabed mining technologies are expected to produce sediment plumes with unknown environmental impacts (Gollner et al. 2017, Gillard et al. 2019). Baseline data for these water column habitats are thus critical for identifying the resources that may be impacted and assessing what those impacts are likely to be.The proposed study will address the following objectives.Develop species inventories throughout the water column in areas of potential commercial interest for floating offshore wind and critical minerals, particularly abyssal manganese nodulesAssess other recent/ongoing scientific programs that can provide relevant data and meaningfully support the study objectives [e.g., California Current Ecosystem (CCE) Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER)] Explain the regional distribution of organisms relative to the physical and chemical oceanographic conditions Provide recommendations for a cost-effective and high-value sampling and sensor package or module(s) that can be easily integrated as a mid-water add-on to future research cruises. Some of the key questions to be addressed are:What is the pelagic community structure in current and potential regions of interest for offshore wind development and abyssal nodules in the Pacific OCS?What are the physical and chemical drivers in each region, and how do they relate to the pelagic community structure?What is a relatively simple and cost-effective standard midwater science component add-on that could provide high value to future deepwater Pacific research efforts?

The City of Stamford administers the Community Microgrant Program to support neighborhood level projects that improve quality of life across Stamford. The program provides small grants for sustainable and innovative initiatives identified by residents and community groups. Projects that create long term community benefit, invest in physical spaces and tools, and pilot new ideas are prioritized. The program has 75,000 dollars available for 2024, and grants may range from 1,000 to 10,000 dollars. Funds may support a wide range of activities based on local needs as identified by applicants. Eligible applicants include Stamford based nonprofit and charitable organizations as well as resident groups without legal nonprofit status that secure a fiscal agent such as a local 501(c)(3) organization or a city department. For profit organizations and individuals are not eligible. Projects must serve Stamford neighborhoods and residents. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Grant duration is not specified. Additional information is available from the City of Stamford.

Con Edison seeks proposals for social justice grants that empower disadvantaged and historically marginalized communities to address climate resiliency in New York City and Westchester. The program supports actionable initiatives created with and for communities most impacted by extreme heat, severe weather, and flooding. Priority is given to organizations and partnerships with strong histories of community organizing around justice issues, leadership that reflects community demographics, deep engagement with residents, and clear policy and advocacy goals. Programs may include education on environmental burdens, skills based trainings on preparedness and advocacy, community convenings to plan for climate impacts, and projects that elevate community perspectives for decision makers. Projects must serve beneficiaries within the service territory and in designated disadvantaged communities. Total seed funding of up to 1,000,000 dollars will support programs beginning in July 2024. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations; in collaborative projects a designated 501(c)(3) must serve as fiscal agent. Programs must be located within priority communities and demonstrate meaningful community impact. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information is available from Con Edison.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund offers matching grants to states and local governments for acquiring and developing public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Aligning with Michigan's 2023-2027 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), this grant focuses on assessing current resources and demands, evaluating trends, and setting strategic priorities for outdoor recreation improvements over the next five years. Applications are evaluated based on criteria that ensure alignment with the SCORP, and funding decisions are made by the National Park Service upon recommendation from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Application deadlines are set annually, with a process involving submission, evaluation, and final approval stages. Applicants must have a DNR-approved community five-year recreation plan to be eligible. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: April 1st

The Ohio Division of Wildlife's "STEP OUTSIDE" grant program is designed to support local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other family and youth-oriented facilities in promoting outdoor skills such as fishing, hunting, trapping, archery, and shooting sports. This grant aims to fund activities that are unaffordable for the sponsoring agency or organization and is not intended to support existing programs or provide ongoing funding for new programs or activities. Eligible applicants include city, county, and community park and recreation agencies, local and state conservation clubs, and youth-oriented groups such as scouts, 4-H, YMCA/YWCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, etc. The program emphasizes that private individuals are not eligible. The application period is ongoing throughout the fiscal year, with applications required to be submitted at least 60 days in advance of the event.

The Sheboygan County Planning & Conservation Department is currently accepting applications for the Sheboygan County Stewardship Fund Grant. This grant aims to foster recreational opportunities and conserve valuable natural resources within Sheboygan County. Applicants can submit projects under three main categories: project development, land acquisition, or discretionary, all subject to case-by-case review. Projects may include land and easement acquisition, development or restoration of parks and trails, protection of water resources, and habitat restoration, among others. Funds awarded by the Stewardship Grant cannot exceed 50% of the total cost of the project or acquisition. The deadline for application submission is May 3, 2024. A matching requirement of 1:1 is necessary for grant consideration.

The Aquatic Stewardship Grant Program, formerly known as the Aquatic Education Grant Program, is organized by the ODNR Division of Wildlife. It aims to foster aquatic stewardship through hands-on educational experiences facilitated by partnering organizations. Eligible projects must offer an aquatic education learning experience and include educational components beyond mere fishing skills, aimed at promoting aquatic stewardship. A final report must be submitted to the ODNR Division of Wildlife upon project completion. Suggested activities include the Teen Leadership Fishing Retreat, OSU Stone Lab Program, Water Quality & Fish Monitoring Program, and Aquarium setup for the Trout in the Classroom program. Competitive activities are excluded. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadlines: February 1st to March 15th

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and schools in Maine to support community-building projects and general operational needs that enhance local engagement and well-being.

The Montgomery County FY 2024 Place-Based Management Grants Program, offered by the Community Engagement Cluster and the Office of Grants Management, seeks to foster economic growth and revitalization in the County's commercial corridors. This program is aligned with the broader mission of supporting local economies through "bottom-up" economic development, emphasizing community-driven strategies. The focus on Place-Based Management, particularly through the Main Street Approach, underscores a commitment to holistic and integrated community development that leverages existing assets and local engagement. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are businesses and residents within identified commercial corridors. The program aims to achieve several impact goals, including retaining, expanding, and attracting neighborhood-serving retail and small businesses, as well as unifying and strengthening commercial corridors through events, promotion, marketing, maintenance, and diverse stakeholder engagements. All funded activities are required to actively involve residents, businesses, and the Montgomery County Government, ensuring a collaborative and community-centric approach to revitalization. Funding priorities are given to projects that address at least three of the four points of the Main Street Approach: Economic Vitality, Design, Promotion, and Organization. Economic Vitality focuses on financial tools, property development, and supporting entrepreneurs. Design enhances the physical and visual appeal of commercial districts. Promotion positions the district as a community and economic hub, creating a positive image. Organization builds a strong foundation through partnerships, community involvement, and resource cultivation. These priorities reflect the County's strategic emphasis on comprehensive revitalization, moving beyond simple economic aid to encompass broader community and aesthetic improvements. Montgomery County Government anticipates awarding $400,000 through approximately two to five awards, with each grant ranging from $25,000 to $200,000. The grant duration is 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for up to three total years based on satisfactory performance and fund availability. Expected outcomes include enhanced economic activity, improved commercial corridor vitality, and increased stakeholder engagement, contributing to a more vibrant and sustainable local economy. Eligible expenses primarily cover operating costs such as administrative expenses, community outreach, implementation of economic development activities, and neighborhood placemaking and management, all geared towards supporting the ongoing efforts of the projects.

The Maine Land Protection grant program supports land acquisition or conservation easement projects that foster strong connections between Maine/Wabanaki territory and its land and water. These projects should create or increase permanent access to these natural resources, particularly for marginalized and historically excluded populations. The program encourages applications from Wabanaki tribal governments and similar entities. Projects should involve community support and include future use plans with engagement strategies for maintaining the land. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadlines: June 21st to September 16th

The Conservation for All grant program is designed to strengthen the bond between the people in Maine and its natural landscapes, focusing on land and water. It aims to ensure equitable access to Maine's outdoors for all, particularly marginalized and historically excluded populations, by addressing physical, economic, and awareness barriers and fostering inclusive participation in program design and implementation. The grant supports projects that facilitate access to outdoor spaces, involve beneficiaries in decision-making, and address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadlines: June 21st to September 16th

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal program administered in Michigan by the Department of Natural Resources on behalf of the National Park Service. It aims to develop public outdoor recreation facilities and offer matching grants to local governments for creating public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. The grant focuses on aligning with the priorities of the 2022-2027 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, which includes trails, community recreation, green technology, coordination, communication, and universal access. Acquisition of land is not eligible for funding under this grant. Eligible applicants include state agencies and local government units such as cities, villages, townships, counties, and Native American Tribes. The application process is exclusively online via the MiGrants system, and the funding requires a 50% match from the applicant. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: April 1st

EPA Region 2 is issuing this funding opportunity to fund Source Reduction Assistance in Communities (SRAC) grants that support research, investigation, experiments, multi-media service-learning approaches, studies, demonstrations, outreach, education, and training using source reduction approaches. EPA is particularly interested in receiving applications that offer hands-on practical pollution prevention referred to as "P2" tools, information and/or innovative P2 multi-media service-learning approaches to measurably improve public health and the surrounding environment, by reducing the use of hazardous substances, reducing toxic pollutants, supporting efficiencies in reducing resource use (e.g., water and energy), and reducing business expenditures and liability costs.EPA Region 2 is interested in receiving applications for results-oriented and multi-media community based projects that are performed in and benefit States or communities within EPA Region 2 (New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and eight federally recognized Indian Nations). These applications should create, promote, and use new and/or existing P2 tools and information, green technology solutions, innovative financing partnerships or approaches, and multi-media and multistakeholder leadership approaches to measurably improve public health and the environment, by reducing the use of hazardous substances, reducing toxic pollutants, or supporting efficiencies in the reduction of pre-consumer resources (such as greenhouse gas emissions, plastics, water, and energy), and reducing beneficiary organization costs.

This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations and public agencies in developing and sustaining small, community-focused agricultural projects, such as farmer's markets and urban gardens.

The U.S. Embassy Beirut, Lebanons Public Diplomacy Section (PDS Beirut) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations or individuals to submit a statement of interest (SOI) to carry out a program to advance arts and culture, climate action, human rights and freedom of expression, sports, and experiential learning (learning by doing). Please carefully follow all instructions below. The submission of the SOI is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise three-page statement of interest designed to clearly communicate program idea, objectives, and budget. This is not a full proposal. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants to submit program ideas for evaluation prior to requiring the development of a full proposal application. Upon a merit review of eligible SOIs, selected applicants will be invited to expand on their program idea(s) by submitting a full proposal application. Full proposals will go through a second merit review before final funding decision(s) are made. Program Objectives: PDS Beirut seeks proposals that advance partnerships and connections between American and Lebanese organizations and communities. All proposals should include diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility components. Thematic priorities for this SOI are: Arts and culture. Climate action. Human rights and freedom of expression. Sports. Experiential learning (learning by doing).

This initiative provides funding opportunities for private sector entities in Jordan to collaborate with USAID in addressing key development challenges, focusing on economic growth, water security, governance, education, and the empowerment of women and youth.

The Albert and Mary Dick Charitable Trust supports charitable organizations that promote higher education, assist youth, and prevent cruelty to children and animals, with primary emphasis on Victoria County, Texas. The trust’s purpose is to fund programs that benefit the local community across several program areas. Grants support work in education, environment and animals, health, and human services. Typical awards average 7,000 dollars, and the trust’s average total giving per year is approximately 200,000 dollars. Specific project scopes and uses should align with the trust’s focus on youth, education, and humane treatment of children and animals. Eligible applicants are organizations that qualify as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applications must be submitted through the online grant application form as specified by the trustee. The deadline is May 1, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information, including application procedures, is available through the trustee’s online portal referenced by Wells Fargo.

The 1889 Foundation Creative Health Impact Grant (CHIG) program is designed to foster connections between the arts and the health and wellness of residents in Cambria and Somerset Counties, Pennsylvania. This initiative directly aligns with the 1889 Foundation's foundational principle of supporting innovative programs to improve and transform the overall health and wellness of the region. By integrating arts projects, performance activities, exhibitions, and other health and wellness-related activities, the grant aims to leverage creative approaches to address community needs and enhance well-being. The target beneficiaries of the CHIG are local non-profit organizations that have established arts and health and wellness initiatives, as well as the residents of Cambria and Somerset Counties who benefit from these programs. The impact goals are centered on supporting projects that demonstrate results and positively impact community needs within these counties. The program seeks to empower organizations to utilize the arts as a vehicle for improving health outcomes and promoting a holistic view of wellness among the local population. Key priorities and focuses for funding include collaborative approaches with quality partners, clearly defined arts and healthcare partnerships, and activities such as exhibitions, performances, festivals, and continuing programs that relate to health and wellness. The 1889 Foundation has specific priority goals that guide project funding, encouraging applicants to align their proposals with these established priorities to increase their chances of success. Both new and well-established programs and projects are eligible, allowing for a broad range of innovative and proven initiatives to be supported. Expected outcomes and measurable results include improved health and wellness indicators within the communities served, increased access to arts-based health initiatives, and stronger collaborative networks between arts and healthcare entities. The grant also anticipates supporting programs that demonstrate a tangible impact on the needs within the community, reinforcing the foundation's strategic commitment to data-driven and results-oriented interventions. The project period runs from September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025, providing a clear timeframe for program implementation and evaluation. The 1889 Foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in the belief that innovative programs and initiatives can significantly improve and transform regional health and wellness. The CHIG exemplifies this by directly funding efforts that combine creativity with health objectives. The foundation’s theory of change posits that by investing in local non-profit organizations with arts and health initiatives, it can cultivate a healthier, more engaged community where the arts serve as a vital component of overall well-being. This grant is a direct manifestation of the foundation's leadership in this area for Cambria and Somerset Counties, with the application process managed by the Pennsylvania Rural Arts Alliance (PRAA).

The Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley (WFGV) is offering an Immersive Grant Writing Program designed to empower women of color in the fundraising sector. This initiative directly aligns with the foundation's mission to support and enhance the talents of women of color, recognizing a historical disparity where organizations led by people of color are often underfunded and mistrusted with grant funds. By building capacity in grant writing, WFGV aims to address systemic inequities and foster greater financial stability for these organizations. The target beneficiaries for this program are non-profit leaders of color (women) within Monroe County, NY. While not exclusively for Executive Directors, participants' career paths should be focused on fundraising, and each organization is permitted to bring one additional person to the program. The impact goals are to strengthen the fundraising capabilities of these organizations, thereby increasing their access to critical funding and enabling them to expand their reach and effectiveness within the community. The program's primary focus is on capacity building in grant writing, providing the necessary tools and knowledge for women of color to excel in this area. This emphasis reflects WFGV's strategic priority to invest in leadership development and provide practical skills that lead to tangible improvements for non-profit organizations. The underlying theory of change posits that by equipping women of color with advanced grant writing skills, WFGV can directly contribute to greater equity in philanthropic funding and empower these leaders to make a more significant difference in their communities. Expected outcomes include each participating organization being awarded $1,000 towards their first grant-finding activity upon completion of the program. The program itself spans six months and includes ten sessions, offered both in-person and online, indicating a commitment to flexible and accessible learning. Measurable results will likely involve tracking the number of grant applications submitted, the success rate of these applications, and the overall increase in funding secured by participant organizations following the program. This structured approach ensures that the program's effectiveness can be monitored and evaluated against its stated goals.