The Sustainable Forests and Communities Initiative (SFCI), a program of the Weyerhaeuser Family Foundation, provides funding to foster environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable communities in forested regions across the United States. Grants aim to integrate forest conservation, sustainable economic development, and community engagement. The program encourages innovative projects that highlight the value of forest ecosystem services and promote sustainable forestry practices.
Eligible organizations must be classified as 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. Applications from those with a fiscal sponsor are accepted if they demonstrate direct fiscal and program oversight through a signed Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement. The maximum grant award is $50,000, with the median grant size in 2023 being $25,000. Multi-year funding may be available, contingent on annual reviews, and applicants are encouraged to outline long-term sustainability plans for their programs.
Funding priorities include initiatives such as creating sustainable, forest-based local jobs; promoting demand for certified wood and non-timber forest resources; developing markets for forest ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and biodiversity; advancing community-based conservation planning; and fostering partnerships to expand program impact. The initiative supports programs that measure success through clear, outcome-based metrics, both qualitative and quantitative.
SFCI does not fund relief programs, media creation, general public education campaigns, capital projects like land acquisition or construction, or general operating costs not tied to specific projects. Proposals for start-up costs, lobbying, endowments, or research are also ineligible.
The Letter of Inquiry deadline is January 15, 2025. This funding opportunity is ideal for organizations dedicated to sustainable forestry and fostering resilient forested communities through innovative, measurable, and collaborative approaches.
