MALT Small Grants Program – Round 5

Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT) is a nonprofit land trust founded in 1980 by a coalition of ranchers and environmentalists with the mission to permanently protect farmland in Marin County, California. Since its inception, MALT has conserved over 58,000 acres through 98 agricultural conservation easements. MALT’s work supports a vibrant agricultural community in West Marin, a region known for its grass-fed meats, organic crops, and renowned dairy and cheese products. Beyond conservation easements, MALT actively supports agricultural and conservation efforts through initiatives such as the Small Grants Program. The MALT Small Grants Program provides targeted funding for projects that simultaneously enhance agricultural productivity and promote environmental conservation across Marin County. The program is open to all commercial agriculturalists operating in Marin County, regardless of whether the land is under a MALT conservation easement. The aim is to build climate resilience, support soil and water quality improvements, and sustain the viability of agricultural lands. Since its launch, the program has awarded $800,000 and follows in the footsteps of MALT’s broader stewardship investments, including the Stewardship Assistance Program (SAP) and the Drought Resilience and Water Security (DRAWS) initiative. Grant Round 5 of the Small Grants Program will distribute up to $400,000, offering awards between $5,000 and $50,000. Eligible projects must be completed within 18 months of grant agreement execution and are reimbursed upon successful completion and verification through a MALT site visit. Funding is available for a wide range of projects, including fencing, water development, rangeland management, landscape restoration, infrastructure improvements, and conservation planning. A minimum applicant cost share of 10% of the total project cost is required. The program also allows for advance payment requests for up to 50% of the estimated grant award, though labor costs are not eligible for advance payments. Applications for Round 5 opened on January 7, 2026, and are due by February 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM PST. Proposals must be submitted through MALT’s online portal. Prior to the deadline, MALT offers several opportunities for technical assistance, including scheduled office hours and direct support from stewardship staff. Proposals will be reviewed and scored by a selection committee composed of MALT staff, representatives from partner organizations such as the USDA NRCS, and previous award recipients. Selection criteria include project impact, alignment with MALT’s mission, innovation, timeline readiness, and contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Priority consideration is given to applicants who meet the California Farmer Equity Act definition of socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers, or those who identify as underserved. The program also emphasizes transparency and equity, with a structured review process and conflict-of-interest safeguards. Notification to awardees will occur between March 19 and 27, 2026, with public announcements made by April 8, 2026. MALT reserves the right to monitor funded projects for up to five years after completion and may use project narratives and media for publicity and educational purposes. Interested applicants must demonstrate landowner approval and provide a project budget, timeline, deliverables, and, where applicable, details of any required permits or additional funding sources. The program encourages projects that not only maintain existing agricultural production but also deliver ecological benefits, such as improved soil health and water quality. Through this effort, MALT envisions a resilient, inclusive agricultural community in Marin County that is well-equipped to meet both current and future environmental and economic challenges.

Clearly connect project to ecological and agricultural outcomes. Highlight readiness and DEI alignment.