2024 Venison Donation Grant Program

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting applications for the Venison Donation Grant Program. This program provides funding to organizations to cover the costs of butchering and processing deer donated to programs that assist Maryland residents in need. The maximum grant amount is $25,000, and funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, potentially shared among applicants. Eligible applicants include county governments, municipal corporations, and organizations exempt under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Grants are restricted to covering butchering and processing costs for deer hunted in compliance with state laws, donated to nutritional support programs, and with a dressed weight of at least 50 pounds. Administrative costs are not covered. Quarterly reports are mandatory.