As environmental challenges intensify, the work of nonprofits, community groups, and researchers has never been more critical.

But impactful projects require significant funding, and navigating the world of environmental grants can be a full-time job.

Finding the right opportunity, verifying deadlines, and preparing a competitive application is a major hurdle.

To save you time and help you focus on your mission, we've done the heavy lifting.

This guide provides a curated list of high-value environmental grants with confirmed 2026 deadlines.

We've verified each opportunity directly with the funding source to ensure the information is accurate and actionable.

Read on to find the perfect grant for your conservation, environmental justice, or habitat restoration project.

Key Environmental Grants with 2026 Deadlines

Here are three outstanding funding opportunities available to environmental organizations in 2026. We’ve included key details, eligibility requirements, and direct application links to get you started.

1. EPA Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving (EJCPS) Cooperative Agreement Program

The U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a primary source of federal funding for environmental projects.

The EJCPS program specifically supports community-based organizations in their efforts to collaborate and partner with other stakeholders (like local businesses, academic institutions, or government) to develop solutions for local environmental and public health issues.

  • Funder: U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • Funding Amount: Up to $500,000 per award
  • Deadline: April 1, 2026
  • Eligibility Snapshot: This grant is designed for community-based nonprofit organizations and their partners.

Key eligibility includes being a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, a tribal organization, or an intertribal consortium.

The focus must be on addressing real-world environmental justice challenges in affected communities.

  • How to Apply: Applications must be submitted through the official federal portal.

We recommend starting early, as the registration process for Grants.gov can take several weeks.

2. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF): Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program

The Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration program, a partnership between NFWF, the U.S.

Forest Service, and other agencies, provides funding to develop community-led restoration projects.

It focuses on improving water quality, restoring habitats, and enhancing green spaces in urban and suburban areas.

This is an excellent opportunity for projects that combine ecological improvement with community engagement and education.

  • Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
  • Funding Amount: Awards typically range from $20,000 to $50,000
  • Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Eligibility Snapshot: Eligible applicants include non-profit 501(c) organizations, state and local governments, tribal governments, and educational institutions.

Projects should focus on habitat and water quality restoration while actively engaging community members through outreach, education, and stewardship.

  • How to Apply: Proposals are submitted through NFWF’s online application system, Easygrants.

You will need to create an account and carefully follow the RFP (Request for Proposals) guidelines.

3. Patagonia Corporate Grants Program

Patagonia has a long-standing commitment to funding grassroots environmental activism.

Their corporate grant program supports small, nimble organizations that are working on root causes of the environmental crisis.

They are particularly interested in groups that use direct action to protect local habitats and biodiversity.

This grant is ideal for bold, community-led initiatives that might be considered too risky for more traditional foundations.

  • Funder: Patagonia, Inc.
  • Funding Amount: Typically between $10,000 and $20,000
  • Deadline: May 31, 2026 (for this specific funding cycle)
  • Eligibility Snapshot: Applicants must be a registered nonprofit organization.

Patagonia funds organizations that have a clear action plan and focus on creating systemic change.

They prioritize projects that are strategic, build a strong base of support, and address the root causes of an environmental problem.

  • How to Apply: Patagonia uses an online portal for its grant application process.

You must first complete an eligibility quiz to determine if your organization is a good fit.

Pro Tips for a Stronger Environmental Grant Application

Securing conservation funding is highly competitive.

Beyond meeting the eligibility criteria, a successful application tells a compelling and convincing story.

Here are a few tips to make your proposal stand out.

1. Quantify Your Impact

Funders want to see a clear return on their investment.

Use specific, measurable data to describe your project's goals and expected outcomes.

Instead of saying you will "improve local water quality," state that you will "reduce nitrogen pollution by 15% in the Willow Creek watershed over a 24-month period, as measured by quarterly water sampling."

2. Emphasize Community Collaboration

Many funders, especially those like the EPA and NFWF, prioritize projects that demonstrate strong community partnerships.

Clearly identify your partners—local schools, government agencies, community associations, or other nonprofits—and describe their specific roles and contributions to the project.

This shows you have a broad base of support and are embedded in the community you serve.

3. Align Your Narrative with the Funder's Mission

Read the funder's mission statement, values, and previously funded projects.

Tailor your application to reflect their priorities.

For a Patagonia grant, you would emphasize direct action and grassroots organizing.

For an NFWF grant, you would highlight the scientific basis for your restoration methods and your plan for long-term ecological monitoring.

Finding the right funding is the first step toward bringing your environmental project to life.

By targeting the right grants and submitting a well-crafted proposal, you can secure the resources needed to make a lasting impact.

Keeping track of these varied deadlines and requirements is crucial—using a robust grant management platform can help you stay organized and ensure you never miss a critical opportunity.