Local Natural Resources Grants

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 small grants to community-based organizations and tribal entities in western Nevada County to support local projects that enhance climate resilience through practical solutions.

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.

This program provides funding to local public entities in California's Imperial Valley for water and agriculture-related infrastructure improvements that deliver measurable community benefits.

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

The NGLCC Community Impact Grant Program, supported by the Grubhub Community Fund, offers crucial financial assistance to LGBTQ+-owned and allied restaurants, cafes, bars serving food, and other eating establishments. This initiative aligns with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce's mission to promote economic growth and well-being within the LGBTQ+ business community. By providing grants, the program helps sustain and strengthen these businesses, contributing to the overall economic vitality of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and allies. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are LGBTQ+-owned and LGBTQ+ ally-owned restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve food. The program aims to provide a financial lifeline to these establishments, helping them navigate economic challenges and fostering their continued operation and success. The impact goal is to ensure the resilience and growth of these businesses, which often serve as vital community hubs and safe spaces. The program's priorities and focus are clear: supporting establishments that identify as LGBTQ+-owned or ally-owned, with a specific emphasis on those in the food service industry. Eligibility requirements include providing proof of LGBTQ+ or allied ownership and not having received two or more NGLCC Community Impact Grants in previous years. This ensures that the grants reach a diverse range of businesses in need and are distributed equitably. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation and potential growth of recipient businesses, increased financial stability, and enhanced capacity to serve their communities. Measurable results could include the number of businesses supported, the average grant amount disbursed, and qualitative feedback from recipients on how the funding has positively impacted their operations and local communities. The grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, providing substantial support to individual establishments. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in the belief that direct financial investment in LGBTQ+ and allied businesses creates a ripple effect of positive economic and social impact. By bolstering these enterprises, the program contributes to job creation, local economic development, and the overall empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community. This targeted approach ensures that resources are directed where they can have the most significant and immediate benefit, reinforcing the NGLCC's commitment to a thriving LGBTQ+ business ecosystem.

The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District is inviting applications for its Community Spaces Matching Grant Program, which aligns with its core mission of protecting land and fostering open spaces within urban and community settings. This program is rooted in the understanding that access to natural resources and open areas is vital for community well-being, ecological health, and agricultural preservation. Through strategic partnerships with local public agencies, non-profit organizations, and federally recognized tribal organizations, the District aims to implement projects that resonate with its broader conservation and community development goals. The primary beneficiaries of this program are the residents of Sonoma County, who will gain access to enhanced recreational opportunities, places for quiet reflection, venues for public gatherings, and spaces for growing local food. The program specifically targets collaborations with eligible public agencies, federally recognized tribes, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, leveraging their capacity to execute impactful projects. The overarching impact goal is to transform neighborhoods by creating vibrant and accessible open spaces that connect communities with nature and promote a deeper understanding of natural resources and agriculture. The program's priorities and focus areas are clearly defined by its three categories of eligible project types: acquisition, improvement, and a combination of acquisition and improvement. This structured approach ensures that funding is directed towards projects that directly contribute to the creation or enhancement of open spaces. The District's strategic priority is to facilitate projects that not only preserve land but also create tangible community assets, thereby addressing both environmental and social needs. The theory of change behind this program is that by investing in accessible open spaces, communities will experience improved quality of life, increased environmental stewardship, and a stronger connection to their local agricultural heritage. Expected outcomes include an increase in protected and accessible open spaces within cities and communities, a greater number of opportunities for recreation and community engagement, and a strengthened local food system through community gardens and agricultural education initiatives. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the program's success would likely be evaluated by metrics such as the acreage of land acquired and improved, the number of community members utilizing new or enhanced open spaces, and the development of new programs related to natural resources and agriculture within these spaces. The annual budget of $3,000,000 for the Matching Grant Program underscores the District's significant commitment to achieving these outcomes and realizing its vision for a more connected and sustainable Sonoma County.

The Food Safety Education Fund grants program, administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), is designed to enhance food safety throughout Michigan. Funded by assessments on licensed food establishments, the program aligns with a mission to protect public health by providing critical food safety training and education. This initiative directly supports the broader goal of ensuring a safe food supply for all Michigan residents. The foundation's strategic priority is to prevent foodborne illness through proactive education and the empowerment of various stakeholders within the food system. The program primarily targets two key beneficiary groups: Michigan consumers and food service establishment employees, as well as agents of the director who enforce food regulations (e.g., local health department sanitarians and MDARD food safety inspectors). The impact goal is to improve food safety knowledge and practices among these groups, ultimately reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses. Eligibility is restricted to Michigan governmental and non-profit organizations and entities, ensuring that the grants support organizations deeply embedded in community health and public service. Producers, marketers, processors, and growers are explicitly excluded to maintain the program's focus on education and training. For the 2024-2025 grant cycle, up to $365,600 is available, with a specific allocation of $242,500 for consumer food safety education and $114,100 for food service establishment employees and regulatory agents. This demonstrates a clear prioritization of widespread public education while also fortifying the knowledge base of those directly involved in food handling and enforcement. The grant duration is typically one year, though multi-year proposals are considered on an individual basis, contingent on future funding availability. Proposals should specifically avoid requesting funding for routine or required training, such as HACCP or ServSafe certification, emphasizing a focus on innovative and supplementary educational initiatives. Proposals are evaluated based on several key criteria, including goals and objectives to improve food safety, assessment of statewide need and audience, measurable outcomes, potential for partnering with other organizations, inclusion of matching funds, and opportunities to build upon previously funded projects. These selection criteria reflect the program's theory of change, which posits that strategic partnerships, evidence-based interventions, and quantifiable results are essential for achieving sustainable improvements in food safety. The expected outcomes include a more informed public, better-trained food service professionals, and more effective enforcement of food safety regulations, all contributing to a safer food environment across Michigan.

The City of Austin's Equity Office is offering grants ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 to support community-driven initiatives, particularly grassroots organizations, that address immigrant inclusion, solidarity with unhoused people, and anti-displacement efforts in the Austin-Travis County area, with priority given to applicants with annual operating budgets not exceeding $500,000.

This program provides financial assistance to low and moderate-income homeowners in Scituate, Massachusetts, to make essential health and safety repairs and modifications to their primary residences.