2025 Community Stewardship Grant

The 2025 Community Stewardship Grant offered by the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program supports grassroots initiatives that aim to prevent stormwater pollution and improve the ecological health of local watersheds, creeks, and the San Francisco Bay. Launched in 1991, the program aligns with the requirements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and focuses on raising public awareness and fostering behavioral changes related to stormwater management. This funding opportunity is specifically for projects located within Alameda County, California. Grants range from $500 to $6,000, and a total of $30,000 in funding is available for the 2025–2026 cycle, pending budget approval. All projects must include a public outreach component and demonstrate clear environmental and community benefits, such as increased awareness, behavior change, and direct environmental impact. Eligible applicants include teachers and student groups, service clubs, community groups, environmental organizations, youth organizations, homeowner associations, and nonprofits. For-profit entities and public agencies, including member agencies of the Clean Water Program, are ineligible. Organizations without 501(c)(3) status must partner with a fiscal sponsor to manage grant funds. Funds may be used for wages, supplies, equipment rentals, and communication costs, but not for food or high-cost equipment like computers or printers. Projects should be completed by June 15, 2026, with final reports due by June 30, 2026. Grantees receive 75% of the award upon contract execution, with the remaining 25% released after final reporting. The application deadline is May 9, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. PST, and submissions must be made online through the provided Google Form. Applicants are encouraged to prepare responses in advance using a text editor and will receive an email confirmation upon submission. For questions, contact Allison Rodacker at allison.rodacker@acrcd.org.