Best Grants for Environmental Projects in Maryland

BGE Charitable Contributions supports community enhancement through focused corporate giving in four key areas: building Exelon's future workforce, energy empowerment, local vitality enrichment, and equal access to arts and culture. By investing in diverse nonprofit organizations, BGE aims to create sustainable improvements in education, environmental conservation, and cultural access, fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the values and needs of the communities it serves.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Maryland Forest Legacy Program aims to protect vital forest areas from conversion to non-forest uses through conservation easements. This federal initiative collaborates with state efforts to identify and preserve environmentally significant forests, with funding support where the federal government covers up to 75% of costs. Eligible areas must be designated Forest Legacy Areas, ensuring that at least 75% of the land remains forested. This program not only benefits wildlife but also supports local economies and water quality.

As part of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Surface Transportation Block Grant Program, the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Set-Aside is a reimbursable federal aid funding program for transportation-related community projects that strengthen the intermodal transportation system.

Maryland’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) awards grant funding to projects that enhance mobility and accessibility, as well as the cultural, aesthetic, historic, and environmental aspects of Maryland’s transportation network. TAP funds projects create bicycle and pedestrian facilities, restore historic transportation buildings, convert abandoned railway corridors to pedestrian trails and mitigate highway runoff.

The TAP project sponsor is responsible for project design, management, construction, implementation and permit requests. The project sponsor also must provide, at minimum, a 20% cash match. The project sponsor also assumes maintenance responsibilities and legal liability for the duration of the project’s useful life.

The Sun Club Sustainability Grant, offered by Green Mountain Energy, empowers U.S.-based nonprofits to implement sustainability initiatives. Established in 2002, this grant supports diverse projects, including clean transportation, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Organizations must demonstrate three years of tax-exempt status and a commitment to community impact. Awards range from $50,000 to $400,000, focusing on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits. Join us in fostering a greener future through innovative solutions and community engagement.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service

About Us

The Maryland Forest Service restores, manages, and protects Maryland’s trees, forests, and forested ecosystems to sustain our natural resources and connect people to the land.

MUCFC Grant Program

Community Tree Planting and Education Grant Program

The Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council (MUCFC) provides funding to support community-based tree planting and forestry education projects that strengthen Maryland’s urban forests. Grants are open to organizations statewide for work on public lands that improves the urban tree canopy, engages citizens, and promotes long-term environmental stewardship.

The Abell Foundation's Community Development Grants support initiatives in Baltimore City that enhance quality of life and address urban poverty. The foundation prioritizes funding for organizations tackling systemic issues in education, workforce development, health services, community development, criminal justice, environment, and the arts. Grants over $10,000 are awarded to nonprofits and government agencies that demonstrate measurable impact and innovation, focusing on underserved populations to foster community engagement and sustainable growth.

Maryland Department of Transportation

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is made up of five modal administrations: the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA); the Maryland Port Administration (MPA); the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA); the State Highway Administration (SHA); the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) – and authorities that are a part of MDOT, including the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This unique approach provides the state’s leadership with the ability to develop a coordinated and balanced approach to transportation.

Urban Tree Program 

The MDOT Urban Tree Program is a stewardship community tree planting program to help plant trees in communities that have lost trees as a result of transportation construction projects. The program was established by statute (Transportation - §2–103.8) out of the 2021 legislative session and was developed as a grant program in partnership with the Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Committee (MUCFC). The opportunity to apply for grant funding is open year-round! Applications will be reviewed twice a year for spring and fall planting seasons. The program awards grants for planting projects with additional funds available for pocket forest projects. The program supports the Maryland Five Million Trees initiative and supports MDOT's efforts to being the greenest department of transportation in the country.

Projects are prioritized if they support environmental justice initiatives, reduce the Urban Heat Island effect, and/or support the urban tree canopy.

Community Parks and Playgrounds Program

Maryland's Community Parks and Playgrounds Program invests in the future of established communities by developing and revitalizing parks and playgrounds statewide. With the support of the Governor and the Maryland General Assembly, a total of $102.4 million has been approved so far for 934 parks and playground projects for our communities across Maryland.

The Governor's Fiscal Year 2027​ budget includes $5 million to fund 26​ ​new parks and playgrounds projects. The projects will be presented to the Board of Public Works for final approval.​

New Parks & New Life for Old Parks!​

The Community Parks and Playground Program provides funding to allow the State to focus on restoring existing and creating new park and green space systems in Maryland's cities and towns. The Community Parks and Playgrounds Program will provide flexible grants to local governments to respond to the unmet need for assistance to rehabilitate, expand or improve existing parks, create new parks, develop environmentally oriented parks and recreation projects, or purchase and install playground equipment in older neighborhoods and intensely developed areas throughout the state.

The France-Merrick Foundation Grant, focusing on Maryland's Greater Baltimore area, supports one-time, project-oriented requests exceeding $50,000. Prioritizing financial sustainability, the Foundation funds projects across civic, cultural, community, economic development, education, health, and environmental sectors. It emphasizes innovative collaborations to enhance community vitality and resilience while ensuring adherence to sustainable practices. Organizations must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status and financial stability, with a commitment to improving lives and strengthening neighborhoods through targeted initiatives.

The Nora Roberts Foundation, established in 2001 by best-selling author Nora Roberts, prioritizes literacy as a fundamental human right. The foundation supports organizations dedicated to literacy, the arts, children, social justice, and environmental initiatives. Grants typically average $5,000, with recommendations for first-time applicants to request between $3,000 and $5,000. Preference is given to local groups in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington DC, particularly those with 501(c)(3) status.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The Joseph Robert Foundation Grant provides essential funding for non-profit organizations focused on the arts, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Based in Pennsylvania, the foundation prioritizes smaller local organizations in the mid-Atlantic region, offering grants typically under $10,000. It encourages innovative projects and supports first-time grant seekers, prioritizing those with limited resources. Organizations can apply for general operating support or specific project funding to further their missions and impact their communities.

The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.

The Watershed Assistance Grant Program, a collaboration between the Chesapeake Bay Trust and state agencies, aims to enhance water quality in Maryland and West Virginia. This initiative supports watershed restoration project designs and planning, enabling local governments and nonprofits to secure future funding for implementation. By fostering innovative planning efforts, the program assists in developing essential strategies like Green Infrastructure Plans and TMDL Implementation Plans, ultimately contributing to healthier watersheds and communities.

The Janice Hollmann Grant offers up to $10,000 to land trusts in Maryland, requiring a 100% match of in-kind services and private funds. Established in 1990, the grant honors Janice Hollmann's legacy in conservation. With support from the Maryland Environmental Trust, it aims to enhance organizational capacity and foster collaboration among land trusts. This initiative has awarded over $465,000 in grants, promoting sustainable practices and protecting natural resources for future generations.

The Keep Maryland Beautiful Grant Program, led by the Maryland Environmental Trust and partners, offers Community Stewardship Grants of up to $5,000. These grants focus on empowering schools and nonprofits to engage community members, particularly youth, in environmental education and stewardship. By fostering citizen involvement and innovative solutions, the program aims to address local environmental issues, promote awareness, and enhance community well-being through hands-on projects.

The Keep Maryland Beautiful Grant Program, a collaboration between the Chesapeake Bay Trust and Maryland Environmental Trust, supports land trusts and organizations in Maryland. With funding up to $10,000, this initiative aims to enhance civic engagement and stewardship practices. Projects should focus on education, outreach, and local environmental solutions. Inspired by Janice Hollmann, the grant fosters organizational capacity and promotes the long-term stewardship of protected lands.

The Keep Maryland Beautiful Grant Program, in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Trust and other local agencies, offers funding for tree planting projects on agricultural lands in Maryland. With approximately $230,000 available, applicants can request up to $10,000 for small-scale projects or $50,000 for larger initiatives. This program aims to enhance environmental stewardship, improve water quality, and increase native tree populations, contributing to Maryland's goal of planting 5 million sustainable trees by 2031.

The CBT Environmental Education Grant Program, funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, offers $290,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 to support environmental literacy initiatives in Maryland. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, and public agencies. The program aims to enhance students' knowledge and motivation to engage in responsible environmental stewardship through projects like Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE) and capacity-building efforts. Grants of up to $40,000 are available for projects lasting up to three years.

The CBT Youth Environmental Education Grant Program aims to enhance youth engagement in environmental education in Maryland and surrounding areas. This program funds projects that allow students to explore local environmental issues through hands-on research, leading to actionable solutions. Grants support various initiatives, including outdoor investigations and educator training, with funds available up to $10,000 for selected projects. This initiative seeks to foster sustainable practices and environmental stewardship among young learners.

The Pooled Monitoring Initiative’s Restoration Research Award Program, led by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and various partners, aims to address critical restoration questions hindering watershed restoration efforts. By funding targeted research, the initiative seeks to enhance confidence in project outcomes, optimize restoration techniques, and provide valuable insights for regulatory agencies. This collaborative effort pools resources to tackle pressing research queries and ensure effective monitoring and restoration practices in the Chesapeake Bay area.

The Maryland Energy Administration's Fiscal Year 2025 Commercial, Industrial & Agricultural Grant Program offers funding to Maryland-based commercial, industrial, non-profit, and agricultural entities. Grants are available for both new constructions and existing facilities that enhance energy performance beyond current standards. With a total budget of up to $3.1 million, the program prioritizes first-come, first-served applications until funding is exhausted or the deadline on February 14, 2025, is reached.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Environment Anne Arundel Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County, supports local nonprofits focused on environmental protection and improvement in Anne Arundel County and the Chesapeake Bay. Grants will fund projects addressing stormwater issues and increasing community awareness of environmental challenges. Eligible applicants must operate within the county, hold 501(c)(3) status, and demonstrate their commitment to educating the public and engaging citizens in environmental stewardship.

The Chesapeake Bay Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns (G3) Grant Program, funded by the EPA and Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports innovative green infrastructure projects enhancing community livability. With funding opportunities ranging from conceptual plans to full project implementation, this program aims to reduce stormwater runoff, improve urban green spaces, and boost local water health within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Eligible locations include parts of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, as well as New York.

Sustainable Communities Grants Program

National Park Trust, in partnership with Pepco, is excited to offer the 2026 Sustainable Communities Grants Program. Municipalities and nonprofit organizations from across the Pepco service area in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland, and Washington, DC are eligible. This program provides $100,000 in support for environmental stewardship and community resilience projects.

• Environmental Stewardship Grants: Open space is a major driver of quality of life in the DC Metro region. These projects will enhance resiliency in this region by stewarding open space and protected lands, which protect water quality in streams and rivers, mitigate urban heat island effects, and promote social benefits such as health, a sense of place, and community connections.
• Community Resiliency Grants:Though the Washington metropolitan region is known for its rich diversity, it remains one of the most socioeconomically segregated urban areas. As a result, many communities do not have the resources to prepare for or mitigate the impacts of extreme weather or other emergencies. These grants will focus on projects that demonstrate innovation in providing a safe and reliable resource that minimizes potential impacts to the community during a time of emergency. 

Pepco values the environment and is always working to deliver a cleaner, brighter future for communities. For Pepco and its parent company, Exelon, diversity, equity, and inclusion are core foundational values both in the workplace and in outreach to the people it serves. The company strongly encourages underrepresented communities to apply for the Sustainable Communities Grant. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consider collaborating with neighboring municipalities and/or local nonprofit organizations to propose projects with regional implications and benefits.

Grants will be awarded to support community environmental stewardship and resiliency projects:

Environmental Stewardship Grants

• Awards up to $10,000
• Total of $60,000 awarded
• Up to 7 awards expected

Community Resiliency Grants

• Awards up to $20,000
• Total of $40,000 awarded
• Up to 2 awards expected