Finding the right funding is one of the biggest challenges for organizations dedicated to protecting our planet.

As competition for environmental grants grows, knowing where to look and how to prepare is more critical than ever.

Whether you're focused on coastal cleanup, forest restoration, or environmental justice, a well-aligned grant can transform your project from an idea into an impactful reality.

To help you get ahead, we've done the heavy lifting.

We've identified three high-impact environmental grants with deadlines in 2026. This guide breaks down the essential details—funding amounts, eligibility requirements, and direct application links—to streamline your search and focus your efforts.

*A quick note on deadlines: Many federal and foundation grants operate on predictable annual cycles.

The deadlines listed here are projected for 2026 based on previous application periods.

We strongly recommend verifying the final date on the official grant website as it becomes available.*

1. NOAA Marine Debris Removal Grant

Supporting a Cleaner Ocean

This flagship program from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) funds projects that remove and prevent the accumulation of marine debris.

This is a critical opportunity for organizations working on coastal and marine habitat restoration.

Successful proposals often involve community engagement, proven removal methods, and a clear plan for preventing future pollution.

  • Focus Area: Marine debris removal, shoreline cleanups, habitat restoration.
  • Funding Amount: Typically $150,000 to $500,000.
  • Key Deadline (Projected): January 31, 2026.

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility is broad, encouraging collaboration across different sectors.

Ideal applicants include:

  • State, local, and tribal governments.

  • Non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status.

  • Academic institutions (both public and private).

  • U.S. territories.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through Grants.gov.

You will need a comprehensive proposal detailing the scope of your removal project, measurable objectives, and a detailed budget.

2. EPA Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving (EJCPS)

Empowering Communities

Funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under this program is designed to support community-based organizations in their efforts to address local environmental and public health issues.

The program prioritizes projects that use collaboration and partnership to develop solutions that directly benefit communities disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental hazards.

  • Focus Area: Environmental justice, community-led projects, pollution monitoring, public health.
  • Funding Amount: Up to $500,000 per award.
  • Key Deadline (Projected): April 1, 2026.

Who is Eligible?

The EJCPS program is specifically for organizations deeply embedded in the communities they serve.

Eligible entities include:

  • Community-based non-profit organizations.

  • Federally recognized tribal governments and organizations.

  • Partnerships between eligible non-profits and other entities (like academic institutions or local governments).

How to Apply

The Request for Applications (RFA) is typically posted on the EPA's official Environmental Justice grants page and on Grants.gov.

Applicants must demonstrate a strong understanding of the community's needs and present a clear, actionable plan for addressing them.

3. National Forest Foundation - Matching Awards Program (MAP)

Restoring America's Forests

The National Forest Foundation (NFF), the official non-profit partner of the U.S.

Forest Service, offers its Matching Awards Program to fund action-oriented projects that improve the health of National Forests and Grasslands. A key feature of this grant is the 1:1 matching requirement, which leverages federal funds to double the impact of private donations.

  • Focus Area: Forest and watershed health, trail restoration, wildlife habitat improvement, community-based forestry.
  • Funding Amount: Awards typically range from $25,000 to $100,000 (requires a 1:1 non-federal match).
  • Key Deadline (Projected): June 1, 2026 (for the first of two annual cycles).

Who is Eligible?

This grant is intended for non-profit partners working to improve public lands.

  • 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations.

  • Universities.

  • Native American tribes.

How to Apply

The NFF uses its own online application portal.

The process involves a letter of intent followed by a full proposal if invited.

Successful applicants must demonstrate strong community partnerships and have a project that directly benefits the National Forest System.

Tips for a Stronger Environmental Grant Proposal

Securing funding in the competitive environmental sector requires more than just a good idea.

Here are three tips to make your application stand out:

  1. Lead with Data, Measure Your Impact: Funders want to see a clear return on their investment.

Use scientific data to define the problem you're solving and establish clear, measurable outcomes.

How many tons of debris will be removed? How many acres of habitat will be restored? Quantify everything you can.

  1. Showcase Collaboration: Environmental problems are complex and rarely solved in isolation.

Highlight your partnerships with community groups, local governments, private landowners, and other non-profits.

This demonstrates that your project has broad support and a greater chance of long-term success.

  1. Align with the Funder’s Mission: Read the funder's strategic plan and past awards.

Use their language in your proposal and explicitly state how your project helps them achieve their specific goals.

For a NOAA grant, emphasize coastal resilience and economic benefits; for an EPA EJ grant, focus on community empowerment and health equity.

Conclusion: Get Ready to Apply

These 2026 environmental grants represent significant opportunities for organizations ready to make a tangible difference.

By planning ahead, building strong partnerships, and writing a compelling, data-driven proposal, you can position your project for success.

Managing deadlines, collaborators, and application materials for multiple grants can be overwhelming.

Using a dedicated grant management platform can help you stay organized and track your progress, ensuring you never miss a critical deadline.

Start preparing now to turn your conservation goals into funded realities.