TBEP Bay Mini-Grant Program 2026

The Bay Mini-Grants program is administered by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP), an organization dedicated to restoring and protecting Tampa Bay through a community-based, scientifically grounded management plan. The grant program supports environmental restoration and education projects located within the Tampa Bay watershed and emphasizes community-led initiatives. The program aims to foster environmental stewardship and enhance scientific literacy among the populations that interact with the Tampa Bay ecosystem. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to a range of applicants including nonprofits, educational institutions, businesses, and government agencies. While government entities may apply, projects must demonstrate strong volunteer or community engagement. Each applicant can submit up to two proposals, but only one project per organization will be funded. Individuals are not eligible to apply. All projects must be located within the Tampa Bay watershed and directly address one or more objectives of the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) for Tampa Bay. Eligible projects must align with the CCMP's three key focus areas: Clean Waters and Sediments, Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife, and Informed, Engaged, Responsible Community. Projects might target nutrient reduction, habitat protection, community education, enforcement of environmental regulations, and adaptation strategies to climate change, among others. Applicants must provide a detailed budget using a required template, ensuring all costs are relevant and fall within the program’s guidelines. Some costs, including lobbying, clothing, commercial software, and expenditures on private properties without public access, are prohibited. Food and mileage costs are restricted and subject to specific reimbursement rates. The application period for the 2026 cycle opened on May 6, 2025, and closes at 5:00 pm on September 10, 2025. Optional informational webinars are scheduled for May 27 and July 23, 2025. Grant recipients will be notified in November following a review process involving TBEP’s Community Advisory Committee and approval by TBEP’s Management and Policy Boards. Awardees will finalize project scopes and budgets in December, with projects beginning January 1, 2026. Progress reports are due in February and August, with final project completion by December 31, 2026, and final reports due by January 31, 2027. The selection process assesses projects based on how well they address CCMP goals, the clarity and feasibility of proposed outcomes, and the quality of community engagement. Additional consideration is given to projects supporting underserved or overburdened communities and first-time applicants. The TBEP encourages applicants to use reusable materials and to promote the Tarpon Tag, the specialty license plate that funds the program. Contact for the program is available at [email protected] or via phone at (727) 893-2765.