Michigan Coastal Management Program Grant

The Michigan Coastal Management Program (MCMP), housed within the Water Resources Division (WRD) of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), has opened its Grant Funding Opportunity (GFO) for the fiscal year 2027 funding cycle. The program supports the development of vibrant and resilient coastal communities throughout Michigan by protecting sensitive coastal resources and promoting biologically diverse ecosystems. The funding opportunity is designed to align with the goals of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, and the program is operated in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The grant seeks to support initiatives that enhance community character, restore ports and harbors, and enable long-term coastal resilience planning. Priority will be given to projects that mitigate coastal hazards, promote ecosystem restoration, and enhance public access to natural resources. The MCMP encourages initiatives that include nature-based stormwater solutions, technical trainings such as the Coastal Leadership Academy, and technical assistance projects that produce tools and recommendations to support local and regional coastal policy improvements. Approximately $1,000,000 is expected to be available in total grant funding for this round. Funding categories include planning, feasibility and design, low-cost construction, and land acquisition. While nonprofit organizations may participate in partnership roles, they are not eligible to be the lead applicants for construction or acquisition projects. All applications require a one-to-one non-federal match in either cash or in-kind contributions. Eligible costs include salaries, contractual services, supplies, and limited indirect costs, with specific caps outlined in EGLE policy. A detailed budget narrative is required to justify the expenses. The submission process requires applicants to register and apply through the EGLE Grants Database (EGX). Before beginning, applicants should prepare all required documents, including a completed application workbook, a resolution of support (for governmental applicants), public ownership affidavit or attorney title opinion (for construction projects), and proof of audit conducted within the past 24 months. Additionally, proposals involving land disturbance or environmental data collection must comply with federal standards including those related to historical preservation and data management protocols. Applications are due by December 31, 2025. A pre-application webinar will be held on October 21, 2025, from 1:00–3:00pm to assist applicants with understanding the requirements. Interested applicants are encouraged to fill out the Project Interest form on the MCMP website to receive individual technical assistance from program staff. Applicants will be evaluated based on the project’s alignment with MCMP focus areas, readiness for implementation, community support, technical merit, and potential for long-term impact. Funded projects may start as early as January 2026 and span 12, 15, or 18 months. Award announcements and project initiations are expected shortly after the close of the application period. Recurrence is annual and based on funding availability through NOAA and EGLE partnerships.

Attend the October 21 webinar to understand funding priorities and review required components carefully. Prepare site maps, budget justifications, and historic preservation materials in advance.