Community Stormwater Solutions Mini Grant Program

The Community Stormwater Solutions Mini-Grant Program is a rolling grant opportunity administered by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and funded by the District of Columbia's Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). This program is designed to support grassroots, community-led initiatives that enhance the health of the District's waterways, reduce stormwater pollution, and engage historically underserved populations in environmental restoration and education efforts. With a total funding pool of $36,199 for Fiscal Year 2025, the mini-grant program specifically supports small-scale, impactful projects with a maximum award amount of $5,000 per applicant. The program emphasizes inclusion and accessibility. Priority is given to small organizations with 25 or fewer full-time staff, first-time applicants, and minority or women-owned businesses (at least 51% ownership by historically excluded groups). Eligible applicants must be physically located within the District of Columbia and may include nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, government agencies, universities, educational institutions, and private enterprises. Individuals or informal associations without legal incorporation are not eligible. Additionally, projects already funded through other DOEE programs or those using prohibited practices such as herbicides or invasive species are excluded from funding. Applicants may propose a wide range of project types, including but not limited to green infrastructure revitalization, community education, litter and pollution reduction, public art installations that raise environmental awareness, and innovative pilot projects addressing stormwater runoff. The program encourages culturally inclusive approaches and meaningful community engagement, particularly with historically excluded populations. Projects that support accessibility—such as offering childcare, stipends (excluding gift cards), and translated materials—are encouraged. Proposals involving District-owned property, such as schools or parks, require prior approval and must follow additional feasibility assessment protocols. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to a proposed start date. Projects should be completed within 12 months of the award date, though extensions may be considered. The application process is managed through the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s online grant portal. Required documents include a budget using the Trust’s Financial Management Spreadsheet, a project narrative, and signed certification of compliance with District laws. Additional materials may be requested during the review process. All grantees must also agree to allow the funders full use and distribution of project deliverables. The review process evaluates applications based on project justification, budget appropriateness, likelihood of success, sustainability, community partnership, and creative engagement strategies. Letters of commitment from partners and community leaders are strongly encouraged. Final reports and documentation are required upon project completion. The Trust aims for a four-week turnaround on decisions, and applicants are encouraged to contact the program officer for support or clarification during the submission process. The program operates until all funds are committed, and updates are shared via the Trust’s website and newsletter. By supporting creative, inclusive, and community-focused solutions, this mini-grant program serves as an entry point for new grantees to engage in environmental work while directly improving the District’s stormwater systems and natural ecosystems.

Engage historically excluded groups; submit 8 weeks before start date; follow all DOEE guidelines.