The Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Sponsorship Program is designed to support events that advance the organization’s mission of promoting restoration and protection of the Chesapeake Bay and other Maryland watersheds. As a nonprofit grantmaking entity, the Trust offers funding for event sponsorships that either deliver educational programmatic value or enhance awareness of the Trust’s marketing initiatives and donor programs. Events such as conferences, forums, festivals, and similar gatherings may be eligible if they promote environmental awareness and serve a Maryland audience.
There are two funding tracks under this program. Track 1 focuses on programmatic outcomes and typically provides $500 in support for events that increase understanding of natural resource issues and encourage behavior change that benefits watershed health. Track 2 supports marketing outcomes with awards typically ranging from $250 to $500. This includes events that help publicize programs like the “Protect the Chesapeake & Coastal Bays” license plate, the Maryland Outdoor Recreation and Clean Water Fund, and the Tax Check-off on the Maryland State income tax form.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, community associations, faith-based organizations, civic groups, and public agencies at all levels. Events must primarily engage a Maryland audience, though they may be held anywhere within the broader Chesapeake Bay watershed, including Delaware, District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Events must attract at least 100 attendees; smaller gatherings are encouraged to apply under the Trust’s other grant programs.
Applications are submitted online through the Trust’s grant portal and must be received at least six weeks before the proposed event start date. While funding is awarded on a rolling basis, proposals are only considered while fiscal year funding remains available. The FY26 cycle opened with the release of the RFP on July 15, 2025, and will run until June 30, 2026, or until funds are exhausted.
Awards are typically issued within two to four weeks of approval. Final deliverables and follow-up metrics may be required post-event. For assistance with the application process, particularly for small or new organizations, applicants are encouraged to contact Program Assistant Sadie Friesen. The program maintains a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion and actively seeks proposals from underrepresented communities.
Applications must be submitted at least six weeks in advance. Events must reach 100+ attendees. Consider alternate programs for smaller events.
