F26AS00018 - NAWCA 2026 Canada Grants

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act Canada Grants program is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through its Migratory Bird Program, under the legislative authority of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. This program is designed to support collaborative, partnership-driven conservation efforts focused on wetlands and associated habitats across Canada. It operates with input and review participation from the North American Wetlands Conservation Council, which includes multiple partner organizations, as well as support from Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Service. The program reflects international conservation commitments tied to migratory bird treaties and continental conservation plans. The primary purpose of the program is to promote the long-term conservation of wetlands and habitats that support migratory birds and other wildlife species. Projects are expected to contribute to the protection, restoration, enhancement, and management of wetland ecosystems. The program emphasizes sustaining populations of waterfowl and other migratory birds in alignment with established conservation plans such as the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and the U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan. Applicants must demonstrate how proposed activities will result in durable conservation outcomes and foster effective partnerships. Funding supports a range of conservation activities, including the acquisition of real property interests such as land or water rights, provided these are secured under conditions that ensure long-term conservation. Additionally, funds may be used for restoration, enhancement, and management of wetlands and associated habitats. All expenditures must be directly tied to eligible conservation activities completed within the project period. The program requires a minimum 1:1 non-federal cost share, with at least half of that match originating from U.S. sources, reinforcing the program’s binational funding structure. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is broad and includes governmental entities at various levels, nonprofit organizations with or without 501(c)(3) status, institutions of higher education, tribal entities, individuals, and small businesses. However, applicants must comply with U.S. federal requirements, including registration in SAM.gov (except individuals), and must adhere to restrictions related to sanctioned countries and international compliance requirements. Additional administrative requirements may apply for projects exceeding certain funding thresholds. The application process requires submission through GrantSolutions.gov and includes multiple mandatory components such as the SF-424 application form, budget information forms, lobbying disclosures (if applicable), a project abstract, and a detailed project narrative based on a prescribed outline. Applicants must also submit a budget narrative, supporting documentation such as maps and photos, and disclosures related to conflicts of interest and overlap with other funding. Supplemental materials must be emailed separately by the application deadline. Applications are evaluated through a multi-step review process that includes eligibility screening, merit review, and risk assessment. Merit review is based on technical assessment questions aligned with program goals, while financial and administrative reviews ensure budget accuracy and compliance. The closing date for applications is June 11, 2026, with submissions due by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Awards are anticipated to be issued around April 2027, with project periods typically ranging from one to two years initially, extendable up to five years depending on project scope and performance. Program contacts include the NAWCA Canada Program Coordinator, Callie McMunigal, who can be reached via email for inquiries. The program is expected to recur annually, reflecting its ongoing role in supporting wetland conservation initiatives across North America. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review all guidance documents and scoring criteria provided alongside the funding announcement to ensure compliance and competitiveness.

Ensure strong alignment with migratory bird conservation goals; clearly link budget to activities; demonstrate long term conservation impact and partnerships