Outreach and Restoration Grant Program 2026

The Chesapeake Bay Trust’s FY26 Outreach and Restoration Grant Program is designed to support initiatives that advance the protection and restoration of Maryland’s natural resources. The Trust, a nonprofit grant-making entity, operates with a mission to enhance local environmental systems such as the Chesapeake and Coastal Bays and the Youghiogheny River. The program aims to increase community engagement and support projects that improve public understanding of environmental issues and implement tangible restoration actions. It emphasizes inclusion, encouraging participation from underrepresented communities and those new to environmental efforts. Funding through this program is organized into four distinct tracks: Outreach/Knowledge Building (up to $50,000), Behavior Change (up to $75,000), Restoration (up to $125,000), and a combined Outreach and Restoration track (up to $150,000). Projects must align with specific goals such as increasing environmental awareness and implementing community-driven restoration practices that improve environmental health and resilience. The program strongly encourages community participation and measurable outcomes. A total of approximately $2.1 million is available, with individual projects potentially exceeding the listed funding caps given proper justification. Eligible applicants include a broad spectrum of public and nonprofit entities, such as 501(c)3 organizations, community and homeowners associations, educational institutions, conservation districts, and public agencies. Projects must be located within Maryland, although specific funding allocations are tied to defined jurisdictions, including counties and cities such as Baltimore, Gaithersburg, Rockville, Salisbury, and Queen Anne’s County. The application process involves completing a detailed online form, including a narrative, budget documentation, and supporting materials. Applications are due by August 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM EDT. Submissions are evaluated by a technical review committee using criteria such as alignment with program goals, project feasibility, audience engagement, partnerships, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Scoring is based on a 100-point system across ten key categories. Selected grantees will be notified in November 2025, and projects must be completed within one to two years, with extensions subject to approval. Ten percent of awarded funds are withheld until the final report is approved. The program also provides resources and support to applicants, including access to technical assistance for behavior change project development and recommendations for community-based participatory research approaches. Project planning should involve community collaboration, especially with priority audiences, and must account for long-term sustainability and maintenance, particularly for restoration efforts. For more information or assistance, applicants are encouraged to contact Program Officer Christina Hollinsed at [email protected] or (410) 974-2941 x155. Additional guidance and templates are available on the Chesapeake Bay Trust website at https://cbtrust.org/outreach-and-restoration/.