Business and Workforce Development Grant

The CAL FIRE Business and Workforce Development Grant, administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, supports the continued enhancement of California’s wood products infrastructure through targeted business and workforce development projects. The initiative is part of CAL FIRE’s broader Wood Products and Bioenergy Program under the Climate and Energy Program, aligning closely with the state’s climate goals and forest health strategies. This program is funded in part by California Climate Investments, which channels cap-and-invest dollars toward initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting sustainable economic growth, especially within disadvantaged communities. The grant targets two core project types: business development and workforce development. Business development projects may involve facilities, operations, and professional services that promote restoration and the maintenance of resilient forests. These projects might include manufacturing solid wood products, processing forest materials, or providing services that support forest health initiatives. Workforce development projects are eligible if they aim to increase capacity within key forestry-related sectors, including logging, fuels treatment, and wood manufacturing. Eligible institutions include universities, colleges, public agencies, nonprofits, businesses, tribal governments, and other legal entities. Projects that include research with immediate application to California’s forest sector are also eligible. Matching requirements vary based on project type and funding level. Business development grants between $10,000 and $500,000 require a 1:1 match, while those exceeding $500,000 up to $3,000,000 require a 2:1 match. Workforce development grants under $500,000 do not require matching funds, while those over that amount require a 10% match. Matching contributions can include federal or state grants, in-kind resources such as employee time or goods, but must occur within the grant performance period. Capital expenditures prior to the grant agreement execution are ineligible as match. Applications must be submitted through the EUNA Grants Portal and must include several required components: a resume or CV for the primary contact, a five-page scope of work, a statement of qualifications, environmental compliance documentation, a business plan (for business development projects), budget and goal forms, and letters of participation and support. Compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is mandatory, and applicants must detail their pathway to achieving environmental compliance within one year. Nonprofits may be eligible for advance payments at CAL FIRE's discretion under workforce development grants. The application deadline for the current round is May 20, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by Q3 2026, with project implementation required by September 30, 2030. Projects will be selected based on factors including project readiness, job creation potential, and alignment with priority populations. These include disadvantaged communities as defined by the California Environmental Protection Agency and low-income areas outlined in AB 1550. Contact for this grant is Justin Britton ([email protected] | 1-916-224-7337). For full submission details and required forms, applicants should refer to the official 2026 grant guidelines and utilize the resources available via CAL FIRE’s website. Applicants are encouraged to schedule a consultation prior to May 6, 2026, for assistance, although CAL FIRE does not review draft proposals prior to submission.

Priority given to CEQA-ready projects and operational readiness; engagement with disadvantaged communities recommended.