Environment Grants

The Daviess County Community Foundation's Community Good Grants Program aims to support a wide array of initiatives that foster the well-being and development of Daviess County, Indiana. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to strengthen the community by investing in critical areas such as Arts and Culture, Community Development, Education, Health, Human Services, and other Civic Endeavors including Environment, Recreation, and Youth Development. By focusing on these diverse sectors, the foundation seeks to create a broad and lasting positive impact on the lives of Daviess County residents. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofit organizations deemed tax-exempt under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as governmental agencies serving Daviess County. The foundation also considers funding requests from nonprofit organizations not classified as a 501(c)(3) public charity, provided the project is charitable and addresses a community need. In such cases, obtaining a fiscal sponsor may be required. The overarching impact goal is to empower organizations that are actively working to improve the quality of life within the community. The program prioritizes initiatives that address fundamental community needs across its identified program areas. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the foundation's theory of change implicitly suggests that by supporting a diverse range of community-focused projects, they anticipate improvements in local education, health outcomes, cultural enrichment, community infrastructure, and social services. The strategic priority is to be a responsive and impactful funder for critical community projects. The foundation's strategy is to foster comprehensive community improvement by being inclusive in its funding considerations while maintaining clear boundaries. It does not fund religious organizations for religious purposes, political parties or campaigns, endowment creation, debt reduction, operating costs not directly related to a specific program or project, capital campaigns, annual appeals, membership contributions, or travel requests for groups or individuals. This focused approach ensures that grant funds are directed towards projects with a direct and tangible community benefit, ultimately contributing to the long-term vitality of Daviess County.

The EQT Foundation Grant program is designed to support nonprofits that demonstrate positive, needed, and trusted impacts within their communities. The foundation is deeply committed to fostering education and training for both children and adults, developing diverse and livable communities, and preserving natural environments. This mission aligns with their belief in meaningful community engagement and responsible corporate citizenship, emphasizing trust-based philanthropy to ensure resources directly contribute to community stability and, in turn, support successful business operations in their operational footprint. The foundation's funding strategy prioritizes organizations and programs that directly impact community residents. They seek proposals grounded in analysis that demonstrate creative approaches to addressing critical issues. The target beneficiaries include children and adults receiving education and training, residents of diverse and livable communities, and those benefiting from natural environment preservation efforts. The impact goals revolve around creating positive and needed change, fostering community stability, and contributing to the overall well-being of the areas where EQT Corporation operates. The EQT Foundation focuses on three core areas: Community Enrichment, Education & Workforce, and Environment. Community Enrichment encourages the development of diverse, safe, healthy, and sustainable communities, with examples ranging from food banks and libraries to arts programs and community festivals. Education & Workforce aims to promote STEM proficiency for youth and create a skilled future workforce through initiatives like in-school STEM curricula, computer camps, and career planning. The Environment focus supports natural resource preservation and educates communities on conservation techniques, including community gardens, watershed conservation, and green space restoration. Beyond these thematic priorities, the EQT Foundation also seeks evidence of a geographic setting that aligns with EQT Corporation’s business locations, effective management of available resources, and outreach that garners solid public recognition and support for the nonprofit, its programs, and sponsors. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on "positive, needed, and trusted impacts" and "creative approaches to addressing critical issues" suggests a commitment to tangible community benefits. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in education, community development, and environmental preservation in their operational areas, they contribute to the long-term stability and success of these communities, which in turn supports their business operations.

The Centennial Park Conservancy is offering Nashville Earth Day grants to support local environmental initiatives, utilizing $60,000 in proceeds from the 2024 Nashville Earth Day festival. This funding is dedicated to underwriting environmental projects in public spaces throughout Nashville, aligning with the Conservancy's broader mission of sustaining Centennial Park's vibrancy and promoting positive environmental change across the city. The program emphasizes community engagement and direct action to address environmental concerns. The grant program targets a wide range of beneficiaries, including community members who benefit from improved public spaces, those involved in community gardens, and individuals participating in environmental education. The impact goals are ambitious and directly address critical environmental issues within Nashville. These include increasing urban tree canopy, supporting pollinator populations, enhancing local food systems through community gardens, improving water quality, and promoting environmental literacy among both adults and children. The priorities and focuses of this grant program are clearly defined through the types of activities that have been previously funded and are expected to continue. These include the planting of trees, care for bee populations, development and improvement of community gardens and pollinator habitats, waterway cleanups, and invasive plant removal. A significant focus is also placed on environmental education, reaching thousands of individuals in parks and classrooms, thereby fostering a more environmentally conscious community. Expected outcomes and measurable results are evident in the program's past successes and future objectives. The program has already facilitated the planting of 240 trees, cared for 160,000 bees, established or improved 11 community gardens and pollinator habitats, cleaned up 15 waterways, and donated 2,300 trees. Future grants will aim to continue and expand upon these measurable impacts, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment across Nashville. The Centennial Park Conservancy's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in the belief that direct investment in local environmental projects, combined with community education and engagement, leads to lasting positive change. By funding initiatives that enhance public spaces and educate the populace, the Conservancy aims to create a ripple effect of environmental stewardship. Their approach demonstrates a commitment to practical, on-the-ground interventions that yield tangible environmental benefits and foster a deeper connection between residents and their natural surroundings.

Eielson AFB Central Heat and Power Plant Cooling Pond Vegetation Removal in Support of Bird Air Strike Hazard Reduction The primary objectives of this project are to assist Eielson Air Force Base (EAFB) Natural Resources with optimal management of EAFB-managed lands, to minimize restrictions to the military mission due to natural resource related constraints, and to reduce the attraction of migratory birds to the EAFB Central Heat and Power Plant (CHPP) cooling pond. See full Funding Opportunity Description in Section I.

Management, Species, Harbor Porpoise, (RAM#FXSBA53247215-A), Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska - The objectives of this requirement are to (1) determine Harbor Porpoise presence in Knik Arm during the winter and (2) determine the presence of Harbor Porpoise in Knik Arm and the timing and extent of upstream movement of Harbor Porpoise in the Eagle River during summer and fall. See full Funding Opportunity Description in Section I.

The Great Trails State Program (GTSP) provides funding for new trail development and extension of existing trails within North Carolina. This includes paved trails, natural surface trails, biking trails, equestrian trails, and other types recognized by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. One grant cycle will distribute $25 million in non-recurring funds. Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, regional councils of government, public authorities, and nonprofits with local government support. Project types include planning and feasibility, design and engineering, acquisition, construction, and maintenance.

The Conservation, Environment and Public Trails Grant Program, administered by the Santa Barbara Foundation, is dedicated to fostering environmental sustainability, land conservation, habitat restoration, public trails, and overall ecosystem health within Santa Barbara County. This program directly aligns with the foundation's mission by investing in projects that preserve and enhance the region's natural resources, ensuring a healthy and accessible environment for all residents. The grants support both new and existing initiatives that demonstrate a clear need and aim to create lasting positive change in the community. The primary beneficiaries of this program are the communities and natural landscapes of Santa Barbara County. The impact goals include improving equitable access to natural resources and trail systems, restoring degraded habitats, protecting ecologically significant lands, and promoting sustainable environmental practices. The program seeks to empower well-managed, financially viable organizations to implement effective projects that address identified environmental needs, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and environmentally conscious Santa Barbara County. Key priorities for funding include projects focused on preserving and ensuring equitable access to natural resources and trail systems, community-based restoration in various natural areas (wetlands, streams, coastal areas, grasslands, woodlands), early-stage investigations for land conservation efforts, and piloting or expanding projects that exemplify best practices in conservation. The strongest projects are those that foster partnerships and collaborations, incorporate community involvement and education, and align with broader regional plans such as Santa Barbara County’s Conservation Blueprint or the Food Action Plan. Expected outcomes include the establishment of new trails and restoration of existing ones, the permanent protection of ecologically and agriculturally valuable lands, the restoration of critical habitats, and the implementation of innovative solutions for sustainable land, forestry, and water management. Measurable results could include increased acres of conserved land, miles of accessible trails, improved biodiversity in restored areas, and enhanced community awareness and engagement in conservation efforts. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its emphasis on collaborative approaches, community engagement, and alignment with existing regional conservation strategies, reflecting a theory of change that prioritizes collective action and long-term planning for environmental resilience.

The "Access Granted" initiative by the City of Frederick is a grant program designed to bolster small minority and/or women-owned businesses. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to cultivate a supportive and inclusive business environment, enabling local entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential. The program's core objective is to provide crucial financial assistance, specifically capital for defined projects that will drive business growth, thereby contributing to the economic vitality of the city. The primary beneficiaries of the "Access Granted" program are small minority and/or women-owned businesses, including both startups and established enterprises. To be eligible, businesses must be registered for-profit entities, in good standing with the state of Maryland, and employ no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees. The program prioritizes businesses that are physically located within The City of Frederick limits, ensuring that the financial assistance directly benefits the local economy and community. The program's priorities and focuses are clear: to empower underrepresented business owners by providing them with the necessary capital to expand and succeed. The City of Frederick has earmarked $400,000 for this new grant program, demonstrating a tangible commitment to these businesses. This funding is intended to be deployed as grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, offering substantial support for growth-oriented projects. Expected outcomes include the sustained growth and increased viability of participating businesses, leading to job creation and economic development within Frederick. By fostering a more inclusive business landscape, the city anticipates a ripple effect of increased innovation and community prosperity. The measurable results will be evident in the successful implementation of business projects, the expansion of businesses, and the overall strengthening of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly among minority and women-owned enterprises.

This funding opportunity supports Native youth organizations in the U.S. to mentor and train young people in storytelling through short-format media projects that highlight cultural, educational, and environmental themes.

The U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to facilitate the launch of the Atlantic Partnership Marine and Blue Economy Hackathon. Please follow all instructions below. Priority Region: Coastal Senegal Overview and Purpose Inadequate technological solutions and lack of coordination across Senegals marine and blue economy-related sectors have led to untapped economic opportunities, unsustainable fishing practices, plastic pollution, and environmental damage. To implement the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation Plan of Action and to bolster U.S.-Senegal relations, a selected implementing partner, in consultation with the U.S. Embassy Dakar, will launch the Marine and Blue Economy Hackathon. This two- to three-day event will bring together approximately 60 working-level government officials, private sector experts, academics, entrepreneurs, and students to crowdsource innovative technical solutions to marine and blue economy-related problems. The project will include a public outreach component to raise awareness and encourage collective action to conserve oceans and sustainably use marine resources. Defining Problem Statements, Crowdsourcing Solutions, and Measuring Results The selected implementing partner, in consultation with the U.S. Embassy Dakar, will define three marine and blue economy-focused problem statements. Problem statements should reflect local needs and the priorities established by the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation member countries including sustainable fisheries management, plastic pollution prevention, coastal community resilience, marine conservation, sustainable aquaculture management, ghost gear solutions, aquatic food technology advancement, ocean data and information gathering and analysis, and marine spatial planning implementation. The selected implementing partner will publicize the hackathon and also conduct a public awareness campaign aimed at educating and motivating communities to take collective action to preserve oceans and manage marine resources sustainably. During the hackathon, participants will: (a) translate multifaceted problems into succinct technical specifications and statements recognizable to software and technology designers; and (b) form teams to generate actionable and innovative technical solutions to the shared problem statement(s). At the end of the hackathon, a winner will be selected by a board of American and Senegalese judges for the most innovative and impactful solution developed, and a prize will be offered. After the hackathon, participants will then deploy the solutions they collaboratively design, leverage partnerships established with their counterparts across the sector, and closely coordinate with one another to ensure the solutions address the identified problems. Hackathon results can be measured by number and quality of targeted small-group sessions, the introduction of new tools and technologies, and creation of prototypes that address the problems hackathon participants tackle. The implementing partner should publicize the results of the hackathon and conduct a public awareness campaign to encourage public engagement to protect oceans and ensure the sustainable use of marine resources. In order to be considered, implementing partner applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusive participation. The selected implementing partner must reach out to potential participants from marginalized populations and communities, ensure balance among hackathon participants, and provide accessibility accommodations as needed. Participants and Audiences: This two- to three-day event will bring together approximately 60 working-level government officials, private sector experts, academics, entrepreneurs, and students to crowdsource innovative technical solutions to marine and blue economy-related problems. The public outreach component should focus on using traditional media, social media, and public engagement to raise awareness and encourage action around ocean conservation and sustainable marine resource management.

Tanana Flats Training Area All Season Road and Gravel Production, Fort Wainwright, Alaska SOW 21-108. The objectives of this scope of work are to implement the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan to provide healthy and resilient environments that are sustainable, high-quality settings for military training, to protect and enhance biological diversity and ecological health on all Department of Defense (DoD) lands, and to ensure compliance with all environmental laws and regulations. See full Funding Opportunity Description in Section I of the Funding Opportunity Announcement.

The Urban Forestry Catastrophic Storm Grants program, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to support the repair, removal, or replacement of trees within urban areas that have been damaged by catastrophic storm events. A catastrophic storm is defined as damage to urban forests caused by snow, ice, hail, wind, or tornado, for which the governor has declared a state of emergency. This grant is not for damage resulting from insect infestation, disease, forest fire, drought, or flooding. The program's core objective is to aid communities in recovering and restoring their urban forests after severe weather. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are cities, villages, towns, counties, tribes, and 501(c)(3) organizations in Wisconsin that have experienced damage to their urban forests as a direct result of a declared catastrophic storm event. Private property owners are not eligible for this funding. A key eligibility criterion is that the urban forest damage must have occurred in an area with a minimum of 100 residents per square mile, as determined by the Wisconsin Demographic Services Center based on U.S. Census Bureau data. The impact goal is to assist these eligible entities in mitigating the visual, ecological, and safety hazards posed by storm-damaged trees, thereby contributing to the resilience and health of urban environments. The grant prioritizes costs directly related to damaged tree repair, removal, or replacement within the geographic area covered by the state of emergency. Eligible costs include regular wages and fringe benefits for personnel working on tree-related tasks, as well as expenses for services, supplies, equipment, or facilities used for these activities. Overtime costs are not eligible, and any costs reimbursed by other funding sources, such as federal disaster assistance or insurance, are also excluded. The focus is on documented, reasonable, and necessary expenditures directly stemming from the catastrophic storm. Expected outcomes include the restoration of damaged urban tree canopies, improved public safety through the removal of hazardous trees, and the enhancement of urban environmental quality. Measurable results would involve the number of trees repaired, removed, or replaced, the total acreage of urban forest impacted by grant activities, and the financial investment made in urban forest recovery efforts. The grant's duration is one year, with individual grants ranging from $4,000 to $50,000, providing immediate support for post-storm recovery.

The City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods Matching Grant Program seeks to enhance Houston neighborhoods through community-led physical improvement projects. Administered in partnership with City Council Member’s Offices, the program aims to foster strong neighbor relationships, encourage volunteerism, and develop projects that build a sustainable and stronger community. Its overarching mission aligns with improving the quality of life for Houston communities by actively partnering with residents. The program primarily targets neighborhood-based organizations and civic clubs within Houston city limits. Eligible organizations must be incorporated as 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) non-profit organizations through the State of Texas, or partner with such an entity. Individuals and political organizations are not eligible. The program's impact goals are to improve neighborhood organization and pride, enhance community appearance and beautification, and increase community participation. The program prioritizes physical improvements that are accessible and beneficial to the broader community, involving neighborhood residents, and offering long-standing benefits. Examples of approved projects include street sign toppers, entryway signage and columns, esplanade landscaping and irrigation, park benches, electrical signage, walkways with pavers, and murals. Projects must demonstrate pre-approval from relevant City of Houston departments if required for permitting. The program does not fund ongoing operation or maintenance. Expected outcomes include tangible physical improvements within neighborhoods, increased civic engagement, and a strengthened sense of community pride. Measurable results would involve the number of projects completed, the extent of community participation in these projects, and visible enhancements to public spaces. The program's theory of change posits that by empowering residents to lead and implement physical improvements, it will cultivate volunteerism, build stronger social ties, and ultimately lead to a higher quality of life and a more sustainable community. Funding for the Matching Grants is provided on a reimbursement basis, ranging from $500 to $5,000. Applicants must also identify how their organization will fund and support the project in the future, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the improvements beyond the initial grant. Required documentation includes letters of permission from property owners, proof of ownership, photos of the proposed site, and three letters of support for the project from neighborhood organizations, businesses, or elected officials.

The Eagle Arts Advisory Committee (EAAC) grant program aims to enrich the City of Eagle's history and aesthetically enhance its sense of place. This is achieved by responsibly promoting the arts for the benefit of the greater Eagle community and by introducing new opportunities that meet the cultural needs of a larger, more diverse community. The overarching goal is to establish the City of Eagle as a destination city in Southwest Idaho through artistic and cultural offerings. The EAAC's mission aligns with this by actively seeking to grow artistic opportunities, inspire community pride, and provide reasons for surrounding communities to converge in Eagle to enjoy a variety of artistic experiences. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include artistic and cultural events & organizations, individual artists, community programs, and educational opportunities that directly benefit the Eagle community. The impact goals are centered on fostering a vibrant artistic atmosphere and musical environment within Eagle. This includes supporting all areas of the arts, such as visual, performing, musical, and literary disciplines, thereby addressing the cultural needs of a broad and diverse populace. The program prioritizes projects or education that will enhance the artistic atmosphere and musical environment in the Eagle Community. Preference is given to non-profit 501(c)(3) applicants. The EAAC focuses on funding requests that do not exceed 50% of the total project budget, with a maximum of 20% of requested funding allocated for salaries. This ensures that the majority of the grant funds are directly applied to project implementation and community benefit. Expected outcomes include an increase in artistic opportunities within the City of Eagle, a heightened sense of community pride among residents, and an increase in visitors from surrounding communities drawn to Eagle's diverse artistic offerings. Measurable results would involve tracking the number and type of artistic and cultural events supported, the reach of educational programs, and the overall engagement of the community and visitors with these initiatives. The funding information specifies grant awards typically range from $1000 to $5000, providing a financial framework for these projects. The EAAC's strategic priority is to establish Eagle as a premier cultural destination in Southwest Idaho, using the arts as a catalyst for community development and engagement. Their theory of change posits that by investing in and promoting a diverse range of artistic endeavors, they can create a more culturally rich and appealing environment, which in turn will attract residents and visitors, boost local pride, and ultimately contribute to the city's economic and social vitality. Project completion and fund usage are required by September 30, 2025, aligning with the 2024/2025 Fiscal Cycle.

The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute's Community Partnership Program (CPP) is designed to cultivate sustainable collaborations with Oregon communities to address identified cancer needs. The program's mission is to partner with these communities as allies in the Knight Cancer Institute's goal of ending cancer. This aligns with a broader strategic priority to enhance community-OHSU collaboration on local cancer issues and disparities, fostering long-term sustainability of local efforts. The CPP targets various Oregon community groups, including organizations, schools, government bodies, health/medical clinics, health systems, and businesses. A key focus is on proposals that address cancer-related health disparities and increase equity for historically disadvantaged and/or marginalized Oregon communities. Organizations led by and/or committed to serving these populations are highly encouraged to apply, underscoring the program's commitment to equitable cancer outcomes. The program's priorities revolve around supporting communities in identifying and addressing pressing cancer-related needs, enhancing collaboration, and building community skills for sustainable long-term efforts. This is operationalized through three grant tiers. Tier 1, "Define Need," focuses on developing local action plans through needs assessments or committee formation. Tier 2, "Develop and Pilot," supports the development and piloting of programs to address priority cancer issues or disparities. Tier 3, "Evaluate and Sustain," aims to evaluate existing approaches and establish sustainability strategies. Expected outcomes include communities effectively identifying their most pressing cancer-related needs, increased collaboration between OHSU and local communities, and enhanced capacity within communities to sustain efforts addressing local cancer issues. Measurable results would be tied to the specific objectives of each tier, such as the completion of community cancer needs assessments (Tier 1), the successful piloting of new programs (Tier 2), and the evaluation and sustained implementation of effective approaches (Tier 3). The overall impact goal is to collectively work towards ending cancer as communities know it, with a strong emphasis on reducing health disparities.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in West Alabama to address critical community needs in areas such as arts, education, health, and social welfare through innovative and collaborative projects.

The Porter County Community Foundation seeks to strengthen the community through lasting generosity and leadership by offering grants for humanitarian, cultural, educational, and environmental purposes. While the foundation acknowledges the importance of general operating support for nonprofits, it prioritizes funding requests that build organizational capacity, enhance efficiency, expand successful programming, or foster cooperation and collaboration among organizations for innovative initiatives. This approach aligns with their mission to ensure long-term growth and vitality within the community by strategically investing in projects with clear, impactful goals. The foundation targets organizations serving Porter County, Indiana, with a focus on proposals that demonstrate the potential for significant community benefit. Grants are awarded through an open process, and the committee considers several factors when making difficult choices due to limited funds. These factors include support from sources other than the foundation, evidence of meaningful financial support from the organization's board, the overall financial strength of the organization, and the request's impact on enhancing the organization's capacity to better serve Porter County. Key priorities for funding include initiatives that increase organizational capacity through planning, training, and professional development (excluding recurring annual conferences), as well as projects that enhance efficiency through equipment acquisition and extraordinary expenses difficult to budget for. The foundation also prioritizes expanding successful programming to reach new audiences and facilitating cooperation and collaboration among organizations for new, innovative programming. These focuses aim to foster a stronger, more efficient, and interconnected network of community service providers. Expected outcomes include increased organizational efficiency and sustainability, improved capacity to serve Porter County residents, and the successful expansion of programs to new audiences. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each funding area, the foundation's emphasis on "increased efficiency and sustainability" and "capacity to better serve Porter County" implies a focus on quantifiable improvements in service delivery, outreach, and operational effectiveness. The maximum grant amount is $10,000, and the foundation generally does not fund annual appeals, event sponsorships, multi-year grants, sectarian programs, political organizations, endowment campaigns, debt reduction, individuals (except scholarships), completed programs, travel for groups, camp scholarships, or re-granting organizations.

Application website will be open starting August 1, 2024 Award amount is based on availability of funding. Award amount is not to exceed $300,000. Award will be based on the merit of the proposal. Proposals are due September 13, 2024. Project is to be completed by January 30, 2026 Application Website: https://nucfac-ten-year-action-plan-grant.urbanandcommunityforests.org Link to RFP: https://nucfac.org/forms/Final%20%20NUCFAC%20RFP%206_17_2024%20ADA%20V05_.pdf Congress established the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council (Council) to advise the Secretary of Agriculture on issues related to the nations urban and community forests and related natural resources. The Council is charged by law (P.L. 95-313 Section 9 as amended through PL 110-246, [16 U.S.C. 2105](g)(1)(A)) with developing a ten-year action plan; providing annual accomplishments for the action plan and assisting the U.S. Forest Service in establishing categories and recommendations for award to the agencys competitive National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost-Share Grant Program . The current National Urban and Community Forestry Ten-year Action plan (Action Plan) will expire at the end of 2026. To prepare for the next ten-year action plan, the Forest Service is requesting proposals from qualified organizations/entities to coordinate, facilitate and manage a collaborative and comprehensive process for the development of the next ten-year Action Plan. PROPOSAL REQUEST: Coordinate, facilitate, and manage a collaborative and comprehensive process for the development of the next National Urban and Community Forestry Ten Year Action Plan (2027-2037). This includes publishing and rollout assistance. The National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Councils authorizing legislation requires the Council to prepare a National Urban and Community Forestry Action Plan every ten years. The current Action Plan, 2016-2026, is to be updated by January 30, 2026, for the Council to meet its mandate. The Forest Service is seeking proposals from qualified organizations/entities to conduct a current assessment, and review and identify emerging issues of the nations urban forest resources and the urban and community forestry programs and activities conducted by Federal and State agencies, nonprofit organizations, community and civic organizations and other interested parties across the country. Funds are to support the development of a National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Councils Ten-Year Action Plan, 2027-2037 as mandated by Congress. The award will be based on the availability of funding, which may be subject to change. The maximum award amount may not to exceed $300,000. Proposals will be expected to address the following key elements, through implementation of the scope and criteria below. This will also include incorporating the Councils comments and recommendations. Key Elements: 1) Work with the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council and the Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry staff throughout the process for input and guidance. 2) Assess the current Action Plans accomplishments, gaps, and items to carry over into the next Action Plan. 3) Summarize the status of urban forest resources in the United States. This is to include the human dimension of urban forestry as well as the urban natural resources. 4) A review of urban and community forestry related programs and activities in the United States, including education and technical assistance activities conducted by: - the Department of Agriculture, and other Federal agencies, - the State forestry organizations, - private industry, - nonprofit organizations, community and civic organizations - Indian Nation and Indigenous communities, and - interested others. 5) Facilitate and integrate applicable public engagement recommendations for improving the status of the Nations urban and community forest resources, including education and technical assistance and modifications required in existing programs and policies of relevant Federal agencies. 6) A review of the urban and community forestry research, documents including-- a) a review of all past five years of research and ongoing research associated with urban and community forests, arboricultural practices, urban forest management, work with disadvantaged communities, and the economic, social, and psychological benefits of trees and forest cover in urban and community environments being conducted by the Forest Service, other Federal agencies, and associated land grant colleges and universities. b) recommendations for new and expanded research efforts directed to and by the Forest Service Research, other Federal agencies, and associated land grant colleges and universities; around urban and community forestry concerns identified by this Action Plan; and c) a summary of research priorities and an estimate of the funds needed to implement such research, on an annual basis, by the Forest Service Research, other Federal agencies, and associated land grant colleges and universities; for the next ten years. 7) An estimate of the financial and technical resources needed to implement the National Urban and Community Forestry Action Plan and the Urban and Community Forestry Program for the succeeding 10 fiscal years.

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation's 2024 Open Grant Round seeks to support community vitality through work that addresses six key areas: Community Connectedness, Economic Opportunity and Security, Education, Health, Housing and Transportation, and Human Services and Family Support. This grant program is deeply aligned with the Foundation's mission to foster community health and vitality by investing in solutions informed and led by those facing the highest barriers. The Foundation offers both general operating support and capital grants, aiming to provide flexible funding for nonprofits and support investments in buildings, facilities, and equipment within the East Metro area. The program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, with a strong emphasis on marginalized communities. This includes BIPOC communities, people with disabilities, low-income communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, formerly incarcerated people, women, veterans, and young people. The overarching impact goal is to advance equity and strengthen enduring community connections, heal and revitalize communities, and promote independence and stability for individuals and families. The Foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its focus on supporting organizations that prioritize marginalized communities and those that demonstrate a clear connection to the "Informs, Forms, Benefits" framework, where those experiencing barriers not only benefit from the work but also inform, form, and lead it. Key priorities and focus areas within the Community Connectedness pillar include arts and culture organizations amplifying narratives from marginalized communities, civic engagement building capacity and power among these groups, and environmental justice work contributing to a multi-racial movement for safe and clean environments. For Economic Opportunity and Security, the focus is on strengthening the entrepreneur ecosystem, increasing local ownership, expanding access to culturally appropriate services, and prioritizing employment pathways for those facing barriers to wealth creation. In Education, the Foundation prioritizes organizations blending academic, social, and emotional supports for young people impacted by educational inequity, and those working towards robust early childhood systems. Within Health, the Foundation prioritizes organizations focusing on health equity, increasing access to affordable and culturally relevant health services, and addressing the growing demand for mental health, urgent care, reproductive health, and trauma-informed care for vulnerable communities. For Housing and Transportation, the emphasis is on ensuring marginalized people experiencing housing instability and homelessness can access safe, decent, affordable, and prejudice-free housing with necessary supports, and work that addresses racial justice, climate justice, economic opportunity, and health equity in transportation. Finally, Human Services and Family Support prioritizes grants that help residents navigate life transitions, find safety and stability, and promote independence, with special attention to disability, child welfare, family, older adult, immigration, legal, and re-entry support services. Expected outcomes include a more equitable, connected, and vital East Metro region where all residents have opportunities to thrive.

The City of Frederick's Department of Economic Development has launched a new grant opportunity called “ACCESS GRANTED.” This initiative is designed to support small minority and women-owned businesses, both start-up and established, by providing access to capital for specific projects aimed at scaling their operations. The program aligns with the city's mission to foster a supportive and inclusive business environment, enabling entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential. The primary beneficiaries of the "ACCESS GRANTED" program are small minority and women-owned businesses within The City of Frederick limits. The impact goal is to empower these businesses by providing financial assistance that will facilitate their growth and development. This initiative aims to address the challenges these businesses face in accessing capital, thereby contributing to a more equitable and robust local economy. The program prioritizes small minority and/or women-owned businesses that are physically located within The City of Frederick limits. Eligibility criteria include being a registered for-profit business, being in good standing in the state of Maryland, and having no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees. These criteria ensure that the funding reaches businesses that are genuinely in need of support and are poised for growth within the city. The City of Frederick has earmarked $400,000 for this program, with individual grant sizes ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. The expected outcome is a tangible increase in the capacity and scalability of participating businesses, leading to job creation, economic growth, and enhanced community vibrancy. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the financial allocation, the program's success will likely be evaluated by the number of businesses supported, the scale of projects undertaken, and the overall economic impact on the community.