Deadline: 07-May-2026
The U.S. Standard Grants Program, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, funds public-private partnerships to protect, restore, and enhance wetlands and associated upland habitats across the United States. Grants range from $250,001 to $3,000,000, requiring a 1:1 non-federal match, and focus on practical conservation projects that support waterfowl, migratory birds, and critical wetland ecosystems.
Overview
The program supports long-term wetland conservation, including:
- Protection, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and upland habitats
- Maintaining waterfowl populations (ducks, geese, swans)
- Supporting other wetlands-associated migratory birds
- Aligning with conservation plans such as:
- North American Waterfowl Management Plan
- U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan
- Waterbird Conservation Plan for the Americas
- Partners in Flight Bird Conservation Plan
Funding Details
- Award range: $250,001 – $3,000,000
- Total program funding: $46,000,000
- Match requirement: 1:1 non-federal contribution
- Funding focus: Hands-on conservation (research excluded)
Eligible Applicants
- Federal, state, county, and city/township governments
- Special district governments
- Federally recognized and other Native American tribal organizations
- Nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3))
- Private and public higher education institutions
- Independent school districts
- Small businesses
Why It Matters
The program fosters collaboration across sectors to:
- Enhance wetland ecosystems
- Support waterfowl and migratory bird populations
- Promote sustainable landscapes and outdoor recreation
- Strengthen public-private partnerships for long-term conservation
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility as a government entity, nonprofit, educational institution, tribal organization, or small business.
- Develop a project proposal focused on practical wetland conservation.
- Ensure a 1:1 non-federal match is secured.
- Submit the proposal to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service following program guidelines.
FAQs
- Who can apply?
Governments, nonprofits, tribal organizations, educational institutions, and small businesses. - What is the funding range?
$250,001 – $3,000,000 per project. - Is matching required?
Yes, a 1:1 non-federal match is required. - What types of projects are funded?
Practical wetland and upland habitat conservation, restoration, and enhancement. - Are research projects eligible?
No, research funding is excluded. - Which conservation plans must be considered?
North American Waterfowl Management Plan, U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan, Waterbird Conservation Plan for the Americas, Partners in Flight Bird Conservation Plan.
Conclusion
The U.S. Standard Grants Program provides substantial funding to strengthen wetland habitats, protect waterfowl and migratory birds, and promote sustainable landscapes through collaborative, hands-on conservation projects across the United States.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.