The NAWCA U.S. Small Grants Program is designed to support projects that protect, improve, restore, and manage wetland ecosystems and habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife in the U.S. It encourages partnerships between public agencies and interested groups, requiring a 1:1 non-federal match. The program is not for research projects but focuses on conservation efforts that align with various bird conservation plans.
Who it's for: This grant is for small businesses, private and public institutions of higher education, independent school districts, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, special district governments, other Native American tribal organizations, city or township governments, county governments, nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status, state governments, and individuals interested in wetland conservation.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Proposing a research project
- Inability to provide a 1:1 non-federal match
- Applications from ineligible entities
- Projects not focused on wetland conservation
- Failure to meet application criteria
What You May Need
- Detailed project proposal
- Proof of 1:1 non-federal match
- Partnership agreements (if applicable)
- Organizational information
- Budget plan
- Conservation plan alignment documentation
- Past project examples (if applicable)
- Registration with federal systems (e.g., SAM.gov)
Cautions
- Ensure project aligns with conservation plans
- Must secure non-federal matching funds
- Research projects are not eligible
- Review scoring criteria carefully
- Consult the NAWCA Council for guidance
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include small businesses, private institutions of higher education, independent school districts, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, public and state institutions of higher education, special district governments, other Native American tribal organizations, city or township governments, county governments, nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status, state governments, and individuals. These entities must be involved in projects that focus on wetland conservation and management.
Overview
This grant is for small businesses, private and public institutions of higher education, independent school districts, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, special district governments, other Native American tribal organizations, city or township governments, county governments, nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status, state governments, and individuals interested in wetland conservation.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Proposing a research project
- Inability to provide a 1:1 non-federal match
- Applications from ineligible entities
- Projects not focused on wetland conservation
- Failure to meet application criteria
Use of Funds
Funds can be used for activities related to the protection, improvement, restoration, and management of wetland ecosystems and habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife. This includes land acquisition, habitat restoration, and management activities but excludes research projects.
Total Program Funding
$5,000,000
Expected Awards
30
Cost Sharing
Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Apr 20, 2026
- Deadline
- Jun 25, 2026(12 days)
- Archive Date
- Jun 26, 2026
- Est. Award Date (AI estimate)
- Fall 2026
Application Checklist
- Confirm eligibility as an applicant
- Develop a detailed project proposal
- Secure and document 1:1 non-federal match
- Align project with conservation plans
- Gather organizational and financial documents
- Register with necessary federal systems
- Review scoring criteria and past successful projects
- Submit application by the deadline