Local Natural Resources Grants

This funding opportunity is designed to support projects that improve forest management and reduce wildfire risks in the Truckee and Donner Summit areas, benefiting local communities and enhancing their preparedness for wildfires.

The Lake County Community Foundation Fall Grant focuses on two key priority areas: Leadership Development and Animal Welfare. The Foundation's mission is aligned with fostering a stronger nonprofit sector through leadership development opportunities that benefit Lake County's broader nonprofit community, rather than individual organizations. For animal welfare, the Foundation, through the Lake County Humane Society Fund, seeks to cultivate innovative approaches and address unmet needs for animals in Lake County. This grant embodies the Foundation's commitment to strategic investments that strengthen the community. Within Leadership Development, the Foundation prioritizes projects that build a pipeline of competent, emerging leaders for the county's nonprofit sector. A crucial aspect is increasing access to quality programming for leaders of color and other underrepresented groups, ensuring a diverse and inclusive leadership base. The ultimate goal is to equip leaders to better serve their nonprofit organizations, clients, and communities, thereby amplifying their collective impact across Lake County. This approach reflects the Foundation's theory of change, which posits that investing in leadership capacity will lead to more effective and sustainable social impact. For Animal Welfare, the grant targets organizations dedicated to the needs of animals in Lake County. The focus is on innovative approaches to support animal welfare and addressing needs where the applicant is the sole service provider. This area aligns with the Foundation's broader aim of addressing critical community needs and fostering a compassionate environment for all residents, including animals. The expected outcome is improved animal welfare through targeted interventions and support for organizations making a significant difference in this area. The Foundation's strategic pillars of Economic Justice, Community Ownership, and Rapid Community Response guide the evaluation criteria for all applications. Successful proposals will demonstrate alignment with these pillars and respond to high-priority needs identified by current Lake County data. The Foundation also emphasizes diversity and equity within applicant organizations, seeking staff, leadership, and boards that reflect the communities they serve. Furthermore, strong, documented partnerships, the potential to leverage other resources, and a high probability of affecting significant change over the next three years are key considerations, along with cost-effective service delivery and a proven track record of achieving outcomes. These criteria underscore the Foundation's commitment to impactful, sustainable change.

The Chester County Community Foundation's Fund for ChesCo Capacity Building Grants program is designed to strengthen the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations (NPOs) serving the Chester County region. This aligns directly with the foundation's mission to support and enhance the community by empowering the organizations that work within it. The grants aim to help NPOs achieve a higher level of operational, programmatic, financial, or organizational maturity, enabling them to fulfill their missions more effectively and efficiently. The target beneficiaries for this program are NPOs located in and serving Chester County, specifically those with budgets of $500,000 or less. The impact goal is to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of these organizations. By building their capacity, the program seeks to ensure that essential services and programs continue to be delivered to the community, ultimately leading to a stronger, more resilient Chester County. The program prioritizes several key areas for capacity building, including Mission, Vision & Strategy; Governance & Leadership; Partnerships & Collaborations; Operations & Technology; and Fundraising, Development & Marketing. Within these broad categories, specific focuses include organizational assessments, strategic planning, board development, executive transition planning, coalition building, financial management, technology improvements, and various resource development campaigns. Expected outcomes include improved organizational assessment and strategic planning, more effective governance and leadership structures, enhanced collaborative efforts among NPOs, more robust operational and technological infrastructure, and stronger fundraising and marketing capabilities. Measurable results could include documented strategic plans, increased board engagement, new or strengthened partnerships, implemented technology solutions, and successful development campaigns. The foundation's strategic priority is clearly rooted in a theory of change that posits that by investing in the foundational strength and operational capabilities of NPOs, the overall health and well-being of the Chester County community will improve. This approach recognizes that effective nonprofits are crucial drivers of positive social change, and by strengthening them, the foundation can achieve a broader and more sustainable impact across various sectors.

The Monmouth County Community Grant, supported by the Community Foundation of New Jersey (CFNJ), welcomes proposals from nonprofit organizations addressing a diverse array of community needs. While the CFNJ's broader mission likely encompasses fostering philanthropy and addressing critical issues within New Jersey, this specific grant program aligns with a commitment to supporting local initiatives in Monmouth County. The grant program seeks to empower organizations that demonstrate a dedication to improving the lives of residents and strengthening the community as a whole. This grant primarily targets underserved populations within Monmouth County, aiming to benefit them directly through programs and services in critical areas such as education, healthcare, housing, food security, employment, and youth development. The expected outcomes include tangible improvements in these areas, leading to enhanced well-being, increased opportunities, and a more equitable community for these beneficiaries. A key priority for funding consideration is a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), evident in both the leadership and service delivery of applicant organizations. Furthermore, the grant emphasizes collaborative partnerships between nonprofit organizations, community groups, government agencies, and other stakeholders. This focus on collaboration aims to maximize impact and address systemic issues affecting underserved populations more effectively, reflecting a strategic approach to problem-solving. The program also offers general operating support, recognizing the importance of sustained funding for nonprofits to continue their vital missions. The grant amount is up to $10,000 per organization, with eligibility primarily extended to nonprofit organizations with less than a $1,000,000 operating budget serving Monmouth County. This demonstrates a strategic priority to support smaller to medium-sized local organizations, enabling them to achieve measurable results and contribute to the overall health and vitality of the community.

The Snohomish County Conservation Futures Program (SCCFP) Grants, established in 1988, serves as a vital mechanism for distributing Conservation Futures Property Tax Funds. The core mission of this program is to preserve open space land, farm and agricultural land, and timberland within Snohomish County. This directly aligns with the broader goal of safeguarding natural resources, supporting local agriculture, and maintaining the ecological integrity of the region. The target beneficiaries of the SCCFP are the natural landscapes and agricultural areas of Snohomish County, as well as the public who benefit from preserved open spaces. The primary impact goal is the perpetual acquisition of interests or rights in real property to protect, preserve, maintain, improve, restore, or conserve these critical land types. This ensures that these valuable assets are protected for current and future generations, contributing to environmental health and community well-being. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined by its funding criteria. Funding is specifically allocated for the acquisition of real property, easements, covenants, or other contractual rights. Eligible projects must conform to the definitions of open space, farm and agricultural land, or timberland as defined in RCW 84.34.020. Additionally, projects in urban areas must be at least 1 acre, retained in their natural state, and open to the public. The program strictly limits improvements to those that align with RCW 84.34.200-220, allowing for features like trails, interpretive centers, viewpoints, and restrooms, while prohibiting recreational improvements such as ball fields or swimming pools. Expected outcomes include the permanent protection of significant tracts of open space, agricultural lands, and timberlands, contributing to biodiversity, water quality, and scenic beauty. Measurable results are tied to the number of acres conserved, the types of properties acquired, and the legal instruments used for their protection. The program requires that the sponsoring agency has a guaranteed plan for managing and maintaining the property to preserve its eligible characteristics, and that proposed projects secure property rights in perpetuity. This strategic approach ensures the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of the conservation efforts.

This funding opportunity is designed to support organizations in Napa County that focus on wildlife conservation, education, and habitat improvement projects, particularly those benefiting school-aged children.

This grant provides funding for marketing initiatives that promote events in Provincetown, particularly those that attract visitors during off-peak seasons and enhance community collaboration and diversity.

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.

This grant provides financial support for small businesses and nonprofit organizations in Hennepin County, Minnesota, to improve their recycling and organics recycling efforts by acquiring containers and compostable bags.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for projects that promote environmental conservation, such as improving soil health and water quality, particularly benefiting low-income communities and people of color in East Multnomah County.

The 2025 Small Grants Program, offered by Boulder County Parks & Open Space (BCPOS), provides funding for research and biological inventories on open space lands. The program aims to enhance resource management practices and improve visitor experiences through data-driven insights. Grants of up to $12,500 are available, with a proposal deadline of January 9, 2025. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by February 20, 2025, and final reports must be submitted by December 8, 2025, to ensure complete payment. BCPOS has identified priority research topics in areas such as Plant Ecology, Wildlife, Forestry and Fire, Education and Outreach, and Invasive Plants. These topics include projects such as assessing the impacts of invasive species, evaluating fire behavior in cheatgrass-dominated areas, and creating habitat connectivity models. Proposals are not limited to these areas, and researchers are encouraged to propose innovative projects aligned with the department’s mission. Proposals must follow a specific format and include sections such as an abstract, introduction, methods, budget, and researcher qualifications. Applications must not exceed six double-spaced pages (excluding cover pages, maps, and resumes) and should be submitted electronically via the Research on Open Space webpage. Researchers are advised to contact BCPOS staff to discuss their topics before submission. If a proposal is initially incomplete, researchers may resubmit once before the deadline. Eligibility is open to universities, government agencies, private organizations, and individuals, including students with faculty sponsorship. Research must occur on BCPOS properties or conservation easements, with prior landowner permission if required. Overhead costs cannot exceed 15%, and there is no requirement for matching funds. Grant recipients are expected to deliver detailed reports, including raw data and mapping products, formatted according to BCPOS guidelines. For interdisciplinary projects, collaboration with other local entities, such as the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, is encouraged. For more information or to discuss proposals, applicants can contact program coordinator Raquel Robles at rrobles@bouldercounty.gov.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for projects that conserve and improve natural resources, targeting municipalities, nonprofits, schools, and private property owners in Hennepin County.

This funding opportunity supports arts and culture projects in the Aurora Cultural Arts District to boost economic development and engage diverse audiences, welcoming applications from local organizations and individual artists.

The California Tahoe Conservancy (Conservancy) leads California's efforts to restore and enhance the extraordinary natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The principal goal of the Conservancy's Science and Lake Improvement Account program (SB 630, 2013) is to support near-shore environmental improvement program activities and projects, particularly projects that manage aquatic invasive species or improve public access to sovereign land in Lake Tahoe.More specifically, such projects manage aquatic invasive species, or improve public access to sovereign land in Lake Tahoe, including planning and site improvement or reconstruction projects on public land, and land acquisitions from willing sellers. SB 630 (2013) allocates the Conservancy approximately $350,000 annually. Please contact staff at robert.larsen@resources.ca.gov and 916.402.7508 for more information.

The Cleveland Tree Coalition Grant 2024, offered by the Cleveland Tree Coalition, aims to re-establish the urban forest in the City of Cleveland. This initiative aligns directly with the coalition's mission as a partnership of public, private, and community stakeholders dedicated to creating a healthy, vibrant, sustainable, and equitable urban forest through the implementation of the Cleveland Tree Plan. The grant program specifically targets neighborhoods within Cleveland that suffer from low tree canopy cover, seeking to address environmental inequities and enhance urban green spaces for all residents. The primary goal of the Cleveland Tree Coalition (CTC) Fall 2024 Grant program is to plant trees in these identified areas. This focus is a strategic priority, contributing to the broader objective of rebuilding Cleveland's urban forest. Eligible projects include tree planting and associated supplies such as staking, mulching, and fencing, as well as costs for establishment activities like watering and soil preparation. The program also supports free tree giveaways, with a limit of 50 trees per giveaway, further encouraging community involvement and individual action in tree planting efforts. The program prioritizes projects that incorporate proper site selection, regardless of whether planting occurs on public or private property. A crucial requirement for all projects is the provision of both a comprehensive planting plan and a detailed three-year maintenance plan. This emphasis on long-term care ensures the successful establishment and survival of newly planted trees, contributing to the lasting impact and sustainability of the urban forest. This structured approach reflects a theory of change that posits thoughtful planning and sustained effort are essential for achieving robust environmental outcomes. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tree canopy cover in targeted Cleveland neighborhoods, leading to improved air quality, reduced urban heat island effects, and enhanced biodiversity. The grant anticipates fostering greater community engagement in environmental stewardship through activities like free tree giveaways and active participation in planting and maintenance. Organizations can apply for up to $75,000 in grant funds, which will facilitate a significant expansion of tree planting efforts across the city, contributing directly to the Cleveland Tree Plan's vision for a healthier and more equitable urban environment.

The Anne Arundel County Government and Chesapeake Bay Trust have partnered to fund forestry projects and land protection in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. This grant program, with a deadline of August 1, 2024, offers grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 for a duration of two years. The overarching goal is to implement cost-effective reforestation and greening initiatives while increasing protected forested land. This aligns with the Chesapeake Bay Trust's mission of restoring and protecting the Chesapeake Bay, as increasing tree cover and green areas directly contribute to improved water and soil quality, reduced erosion, and filtered airborne pollutants, all of which benefit the health of the Bay watershed. The program targets areas within Anne Arundel County, excluding the City of Annapolis. The primary beneficiaries are the residents and the natural environment of Anne Arundel County, as the projects aim to improve air and water quality, mitigate erosion, reduce summer temperatures and ozone pollution, and ensure valuable ecological services like habitat, water quality, and flood control for the future. The desired impact is a healthier, more sustainable environment through increased tree cover and protected forested lands. The program prioritizes reforestation/afforestation of protected lands, permanent protection of forested lands, and reforestation/afforestation and protection of uneased and unforested lands. Track 1 focuses on projects providing ecological benefits through riparian buffers, contiguous forest tracts, and wildlife habitat. Track 2 supports acquiring, executing, recording, and monitoring permanent conservation easements to protect existing tree canopy, particularly ecologically valuable sites. Track 3 allows for reforestation/afforestation on unprotected land, contingent on placing a permanent conservation easement, deed restriction, or long-term protective agreement. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in acres of reforested and protected forested land within Anne Arundel County. By expanding tree cover, the program anticipates a reduction in erosion, an improvement in water and soil quality, and a decrease in airborne pollutants such as particulates, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. Additionally, the initiative is expected to lower summer temperatures, thereby reducing ozone pollution and energy consumption. The protection of forested lands will ensure long-term ecological services like wildlife habitat, sustained water quality, and effective flood control, contributing to the overall resilience and environmental health of the county.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for projects that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency in Maui County, with a focus on initiatives led by women, youth, and traditional native Hawaiian practices.

The Loudoun County COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Program seeks grant applications from community organizations to ensure greater equity and access to the COVID-19 vaccine for populations disproportionately affected by the pandemic. This program aligns with the broader mission of public health and community well-being by addressing disparities in vaccine access and promoting health equity. It is administered by the Loudoun County Health Department and supported through federal acts, highlighting a strategic priority to leverage government funding for targeted community health interventions. The program's target beneficiaries are priority populations identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These include racial and ethnic minority groups, individuals in rural communities, people with disabilities, the homebound or isolated, the underinsured or uninsured, immigrants and/or refugees, and those with transportation limitations. The primary impact goal is to increase access to COVID-19 vaccination and the number of vaccinated individuals within these groups, thereby reducing health disparities and protecting vulnerable populations. The program prioritizes specific projects and initiatives focused on increasing vaccine access. This includes funding for project staff, travel to vaccination sites, facility and vehicle rentals for off-site clinics, bus passes to facilitate transportation, associated costs for operating clinics, health communications, education services, and software for information flow. The strategic focus is on removing barriers to vaccination and supporting community-based efforts that can effectively reach and engage these priority populations. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in vaccination rates among the identified priority populations and a reduction in the equity gap in vaccine access. The program also aims to build on existing community rapport and trust, emphasizing the importance of local reach and experienced messengers. By supporting organizations with demonstrated capacity and experience in community health promotion and working with affected communities, the grant intends to achieve sustainable improvements in public health and health equity within Loudoun County. The funding available is $306,407, with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $102,000, for a grant period from July 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025.

The American Water Charitable Foundation’s Water and Environment grant program is a targeted funding opportunity designed to support innovative, community-based projects that align directly with the Foundation’s core mission of environmental stewardship and water sustainability within American Water’s service areas. The program seeks to fund new, non-operational initiatives focused on three key aspects: improving, restoring, or protecting watersheds, surface water, and groundwater; promoting water conservation practices; and enhancing equitable access to water-based recreation for underserved communities. Eligibility is restricted to 501(c)(3) public charities, K-12 public schools, colleges, and universities located within the company’s operational footprint, ensuring a direct local impact. The grant program’s priorities and focuses center on addressing local environmental and community needs. Key focus areas include scientific investigation and monitoring of pollutants, the development and implementation of green infrastructure, and environmental education. For example, grants were awarded to support analytical costs for increasing upstream pollution monitoring, to fund new sampling sites for pollutant testing in rivers, and to install bioswales to reduce runoff and recharge local aquifers. The target beneficiaries are the local communities within American Water’s service regions, with a specific focus on projects that improve equitable access for underserved populations. The expected outcomes are strongly tied to measurable, on-the-ground results that contribute to improved water quality and conservation. Grantees are expected to deliver tangible outcomes such as eliminating pollution sources, providing communities with actionable data for improving local water quality, reducing runoff, and supporting remediation efforts based on new scientific findings. To ensure efficiency, all projects are required to be completed within 12 months of the grant being awarded. This emphasis on clear, time-bound deliverables ensures that the Foundation’s investment translates quickly into demonstrable environmental and community benefits. The Foundation's strategic priorities and implicit theory of change rest on the principle that local, community-driven investment is the most effective pathway to sustainable water resource management and protection. By funding specific, measurable activities—such as water quality monitoring, targeted infrastructure installation, and educational programming—the Foundation aims to achieve intermediate outcomes like reduced contamination and increased environmental awareness. This approach is rooted in the belief that empowering local organizations to gather data, implement physical solutions, and cultivate environmental stewardship will lead to the long-term impact of protected and enhanced water supplies across the communities served by American Water.

Sanback Dam Removal & Stream Restoration Design Phase: This grant opportunity is for the design and permitting phase of fully removing Sanback Dam in Rose City, MI. The existing dam is deteriorating and poses safety hazards. If the dam were to fail, it could endanger people downstream and damage property and infrastructure. The grant is open to organizations of all types seeking to restore the stream habitat downstream. Shiawassee Access and Riverfront Development: The Village of Byron proposes to develop a publicly accessible riverfront viewing platform as part of their Economic & Public Space initiative along the Shiawassee River. The plan aims to attract new commerce, residents, and visitors to enhance the commercial corridor. The project will catalyze redevelopment efforts after a fire destroyed several sites in 2012. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers are eligible to apply. Smith Park Fishing Access: The City of Essexville's Smith Park includes a boat launch and recreation area near Saginaw Bay. However, fishing opportunities are limited due to irregular riverbanks and failed erosion control measures. This grant supports park improvements with a focus on fishing access, including the development of a floating fishing pier. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers can apply for this grant opportunity. Finn Road Park Improvements: Proposed by Hampton Township, this grant supports improvements at Finn Road Park along Saginaw Bay's shoreline. The project includes native plantings and restoration, a universally accessible kayak launch, parking improvements, and a new playground area. Grant funds will specifically be used for the kayak launch and native plant rain garden. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers are eligible to apply. An updated Development/Capital Improvement Plan for the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition: This grant supports updating and publicly distributing the Development/Capital Improvement Plan for the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition. The plan aims to enhance public launch sites along the river