Deadline: 28-Feb-2026
The 2026 Community Grants Program provides funding of up to $10,000 per year for community-driven conservation projects involving volunteers. Grants support initiatives that maintain, conserve, or restore indigenous fish and wildlife species and habitats, encourage volunteer engagement, and deliver measurable, long-term environmental benefits. Multi-year projects can receive up to $20,000 total, with reporting and accountability requirements for each funding cycle.
Overview
The Community Grants Program supports organizations and individuals leading volunteer-based conservation projects. Its goals are to:
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Preserve and restore indigenous species and their habitats
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Deliver long-term environmental benefits
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Engage local communities through hands-on volunteer participation
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Strengthen community capacity for conservation
Funding Details
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Maximum grant per year: $10,000
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Project duration for spending: Up to 5 years per approved grant
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Total funding cap for multi-year projects: $20,000
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Funds must be used strictly for activities outlined in the approved project
Multi-Year Projects
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New applications are required for each subsequent year
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Must include a progress update and full financial/activity report for the prior year
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Reports due by July 30 of each relevant year
Eligible Activities
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Habitat restoration and species conservation initiatives
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Volunteer-driven environmental actions
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Community education or engagement tied directly to project outcomes
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Hands-on activities promoting long-term ecosystem health
Ineligible Activities
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Activities not directly related to conservation or volunteer engagement
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Expenses unrelated to the approved project activities
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Costs that violate permitting, legal, or health and safety standards
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include organizations and individuals committed to:
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Conducting community-driven conservation projects
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Engaging and coordinating volunteers
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Demonstrating measurable environmental outcomes
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Managing the project in compliance with reporting, budgeting, and regulatory requirements
How to Apply
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Identify a conservation project aligned with the program’s goals and priorities
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Complete the application including:
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Project description and objectives
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Budget outlining allowable costs
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Volunteer engagement plan
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Timeline and expected outcomes
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Submit the application through the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation platform
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For multi-year projects, include progress updates and prior year reports
Reporting Requirements
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Submit a final report detailing project outcomes and expenditures after completion
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Maintain transparency in fund usage, volunteer activities, and project results
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Ensure all permits, approvals, and health and safety measures are in place
Why This Grant Matters
The program empowers local communities to actively contribute to environmental conservation. By funding volunteer-led projects, it enhances ecosystem health, species protection, and community stewardship, fostering both environmental and social benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum funding per project? $10,000 per year, up to $20,000 for multi-year projects.
Who can apply? Organizations or individuals running volunteer-based conservation initiatives.
Can funds be used over multiple years? Yes, with annual applications and reporting.
What activities are eligible? Habitat restoration, species conservation, volunteer-driven environmental projects, and community engagement.
Are there reporting requirements? Yes, final reports and financial reporting are mandatory.
What is the deadline for multi-year project reports? July 30 of each relevant year.
Are permits or approvals required? Yes, applicants must secure necessary permits and comply with regulations and health/safety standards.
Conclusion
The 2026 Community Grants Program provides vital support for volunteer-led conservation projects that protect local ecosystems, restore habitats, and engage communities. With clear funding, reporting, and accountability guidelines, it ensures effective, transparent, and measurable environmental impact.
For more information, visit Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
