Best Green Infrastructure Grants in New York

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Green infrastructure project sponsors in New York City can receive more than US $50,000 to retrofit private property roofs with green roofs that manage stormwater runoff. Focused on green infrastructure, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection reimburses eligible projects based on green roof area and soil depth, with a minimum project size of $50,000 and 3,500 square feet.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Municipalities, public authorities, and state agencies in New York can seek $1,000,000 to $10,000,000 for green infrastructure and nature-based stormwater projects that improve water quality and climate resilience. Focused on stormwater management and climate resilience, New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation invites applicants to propose regional or local green infrastructure that benefits disadvantaged communities and mitigates extreme weather impacts.

Nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups in New York’s Capital Region can seek $1,000 to $5,000 for Albany County tourism programs, attractions, events, and related capital projects. Grants from the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region may benefit green infrastructure efforts that enhance tourism destinations and increase overnight stays in Albany County.

New York municipalities, community groups, and other organizations planning green streets, community greening, or urban tree canopy projects can access funding through Chesapeake Bay Trust to support green infrastructure within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Grants up to US $175,000 cover conceptual planning, engineered design, construction, community greening, white papers, and technical planning assistance to reduce stormwater runoff and improve local waters.

New York 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored groups advancing BIPOC-led environmental and climate justice, including green infrastructure and resilience projects, may be eligible for this program. Grants from Scherman Foundation help New York climate justice organizations, plus select groups in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, build grassroots power, equitable mass transit, renewable energy, and other intersectional climate solutions.

New York 501(c)(3) community-based organizations, educational institutions, and coalitions can seek funding for green and blue infrastructure, extreme weather adaptation, and community resilience projects. Con Edison provides support within its New York City and Westchester service area, prioritizing historically marginalized communities and programs tied to climate resilience, social justice, or clean energy and technology careers.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

EFC has broad knowledge and a breadth of experience as a national leader in the municipal bond market. Our distinction gives our partners significant advantages in funding projects: Low cost of capital through grants, low interest rates and reduced bonding costs; Multiple funding options to fit your needs through project planning to construction and completion; Expert support to guide you through the application process and help you comply with state and federal requirements. We ensure the participation of minority-, women-, and service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses through every stage of the construction process. We also partner with a wide variety of professional organizations

Strengthening Essential Cybersecurity for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancement (SECURE) Assessment Grant

EFC is offering $2.5 million dollars to strengthen cybersecurity readiness and resilience and support operational continuity for eligible water and wastewater systems across New York State. The SECURE program will provide funding for projects that enhance cyber protections, modernize digital infrastructure and reduce vulnerabilities for critical drinking water and wastewater systems. This strategic initiative expands upon Governor Hochul’s commitment to safeguard essential services, improve risk management practices, and support communities meeting evolving cybersecurity expectations. Funding is available for both cybersecurity assessments and implementation based on best practices and regulatory requirements. 

The SECURE Assessment grant will assist eligible clean water and drinking water systems to evaluate their cybersecurity posture, identify vulnerabilities, and prioritize risk mitigation needs. A municipality may apply for up to $50,000 with a 0% match.   

New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

EFC has broad knowledge and a breadth of experience as a national leader in the municipal bond market. Our distinction gives our partners significant advantages in funding projects: Low cost of capital through grants, low interest rates and reduced bonding costs; Multiple funding options to fit your needs through project planning to construction and completion; Expert support to guide you through the application process and help you comply with state and federal requirements. We ensure the participation of minority-, women-, and service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses through every stage of the construction process. We also partner with a wide variety of professional organizations

Strengthening Essential Cybersecurity for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancement (SECURE) Implementation Grant

EFC is offering $2.5 million dollars to strengthen cybersecurity readiness and resilience and support operational continuity for eligible water and wastewater systems across New York State. The SECURE program will provide funding for projects that enhance cyber protections, modernize digital infrastructure and reduce vulnerabilities for critical drinking water and wastewater systems. This strategic initiative expands upon Governor Hochul’s commitment to safeguard essential services, improve risk management practices, and support communities meeting evolving cybersecurity expectations. Funding is available for both cybersecurity assessments and implementation based on best practices and regulatory requirements. 

The SECURE Implementation Grant will fund deployment and enhancement of cybersecurity controls, technologies, and response capabilities identified during the assessment phase. The funded activities will be in response to a submitted cybersecurity assessment of the system. Completion of a prior assessment using a SECURE Assessment Grant is not required to apply; however a comparable assessment of the system’s cybersecurity needs must have been completed prior to applying for a SECURE Implementation Grant. A municipality may apply for up to 20% of net eligible costs, up to $100,000. 

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

New York green infrastructure and water quality project sponsors can access funding through the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation to implement green stormwater infrastructure, energy efficiency, or water efficiency projects. Competitive Green Innovation Grant Program awards cover a portion of eligible planning, design, and construction costs, requiring a local match and separate applications for each green category.

 

Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

Intermunicipal Water Infrastructure Grants (IMG) 

The Intermunicipal Water Infrastructure Grants (IMG) program is available for both drinking water and wastewater projects that serve multiple municipalities, such as a shared water quality infrastructure project or the interconnection of multiple municipal water systems.

IMG Clean Water and Drinking Water Projects

Cooperating municipalities with an eligible joint project may receive an IMG grant award as described below:

• The lesser of $30 million or 40% of net eligible project costs.

• A municipality is limited to receiving one IMG grant per year. There is not a separate application for IMG. EFC and DOH will determine if a project is eligible for an IMG award based on answers submitted in the application and applicable documents uploaded in the application. 

Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) Grant

The Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) program provides competitive grants to help municipalities affordably undertake critical wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects. The program demonstrates New York State's nation-leading commitment to upgrading water and sewer systems, reducing water pollution, and safeguarding vital drinking water supplies from emerging contaminants and toxic chemicals.

Funding Categories: WIIA Clean Water Projects; WIIA Drinking Water Projects 

WIIA Clean Water Projects

An applicant with an eligible clean water project(s) may receive WIIA grant funding as described below:

• A project, which includes all phases of the project, may be awarded the lesser of $25 million or 25% of net eligible project costs estimated at the time of application.

• A project serving a small, rural, and disadvantaged community with a population of 3,500 or less may qualify for an enhanced WIIA award that will fund 50% of net eligible project costs up to $25 million. To qualify for the enhanced WIIA award, the community must meet the hardship criteria as defined in the 2026 Clean Water Hardship Policy.

• No more than two projects per municipality can be awarded in the current round. If a municipality applies for more than one project during the current round, EFC will prioritize the projects based on their scores. If more than one project is eligible for an award, EFC will award the highest scoring project first, and if the $25 million cap per municipality has not been reached, EFC will award a second project 25% of net eligible project costs up to the $25 million cap.

Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) Grant

The Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) program provides competitive grants to help municipalities affordably undertake critical wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects. The program demonstrates New York State's nation-leading commitment to upgrading water and sewer systems, reducing water pollution, and safeguarding vital drinking water supplies from emerging contaminants and toxic chemicals.

Funding Categories: WIIA Clean Water Projects; WIIA Drinking Water Projects 

WIIA Drinking Water Projects 

An applicant with an eligible drinking water project may receive WIIA grant funding as described below:

• Emerging Contaminants (EC) Projects: a) A project addressing emerging contaminants (EC) with Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) above a current Federal Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL), or 1,4-dioxane above the current New York State MCL may be awarded 70% of net eligible project costs with no cap; and b) A project addressing an EC below a current Federal or New York State MCL may be awarded the lesser of $5 million or 70% of net eligible project costs.

• Lead Service Line (LSL) Projects: a) A municipality that has not received Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) LSL Inventory grant funding may be awarded 100% of net eligible project costs up to $2 million for an LSL inventory project. b) A municipality that has not received IIJA LSL Replacement grant funding may be awarded 70% of net eligible project costs up to $10 million for an LSL replacement project. The project must replace the entire lead service line, not just a portion, unless a portion has already been replaced or is concurrently being replaced as part of another project. c) Only projects whose entire scope and cost are directly related to the inventory or replacement of lead service lines will be considered an LSL project. If any non-LSL related work is included in the project scope, the project will not be considered an LSL project.

• A non-EC or non-LSL project, which includes all phases of the project, may be awarded the lesser of $5 million or 70% of net eligible project costs.

• A Municipality may apply for a WIIA grant on more than one project, but each municipality is limited to receiving no more than $5 million per year, unless they have a project(s) that address one or more of the ECs PFAS above a current Federal MCL, 1,4-dioxane above the current New York State MCL, or is for LSL inventory or replacement.

• Excluding EC and LSL projects, municipalities are limited to $5 million of combined Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Base grants, DWSRF IIJA General Supplemental grants, and WIIA grants annually. 

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) 

Grant Description

The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program open to local governments and not-for-profit corporations to implement projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. This funding is for construction/implementation projects, not projects that are exclusively for planning.

Maximum funding awards vary by project type. Program priorities and requirements are also subject to change from year to year. The typical annual funding available for the WQIP program is at least $75 million.

Grant funds are available for up to 75% of the application budget. Applicants must provide the remaining 25% in match funds. Additional information regarding eligible forms of match (eligible costs) is provided under each project type. 

Eligible Project Types

Funding is available for the following project types: 1) Wastewater Treatment Improvement; 2) Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control; 3) Vacuum Trucks in Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Areas; 4) Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection; 5) Salt Storage and Road Salt Reduction; 6) Dam Safety Repair/Rehabilitation and Removal; 7) Aquatic Connectivity; 8) Marine District Habitat Restoration; 9) Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration and Enhancement; 10) Landfill Leachate Treatment

Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control

Project Type Description

Funding is available for non-agricultural nonpoint source projects or programs that improve a documented water quality impairment, promote flood risk reduction, enhanced flood and climate resiliency, and restoration or that protect a drinking water source. 

• Decentralized wastewater treatment facilities
• Green infrastructure practices
• Stormwater retrofits
• Streambank and shoreline stabilization
• Riparian buffers
• In-waterbody controls for nutrients
• Bathing beach restoration
• Stream culvert repair and replacement
• Programs to implement nonpoint source management within a defined geographic area

New York State Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services

The New York State Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services stands as a beacon of support and resource for faith-based and nonprofit organizations across the state. With a mission deeply rooted in Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to support and expand these communities, the Office is dedicated to fostering growth, equity, and connectivity.  

At its core, the Office aims to empower Faith and Nonprofit organizations. By providing essential information, facilitating access to state grants, and enhancing organizational capacities, it seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all New Yorkers.  

OFNDS Technical Assistance Request for Application (RFA)

This RFA seeks to award funding that will develop a program to provide free technical assistance to nonprofits across New York State. The program seeks to build organizational capacity, improve nonprofits' ability to maximize funding opportunities, expand programmatic impact, and ensure accountability to fiscal compliance standards necessary to do business with New York State. 

Overview- Proposed Areas for Technical Assistance

The purpose of this grant is to fund qualified nonprofit organizations to administer a no-cost Technical Assistance program for the nonprofit community in New York State. Under this grant, the Technical Assistance provider will assist nonprofit organizations with a presence in the assigned region with fiscal infrastructure planning and development, and organizational compliance required to do business in and with New York State, and resource development. These services will increase the nonprofits’ ability to secure, administer and sustain public funding opportunities for New York State grants, and community initiatives.

The Technical Assistance proposed should be practical and tailored to the needs and realities of smaller organizations with limited staff and resources. Successful applicants are required to provide Technical Assistance in a group setting or to individual organizations, as needed. 

Preference will be given to organizations with three or more years’ experience providing similar services to nonprofit organizations. 

Award Regions

Awards will be granted to qualified nonprofit organizations according to two regions: Region A, Downstate; and Region B, Upstate. 

Region B, Upstate

• Capital Region (Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, and Washington Counties)
• Central NY (Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego)
• Finger Lakes (Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates)
• Mid-Hudson (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan, Ulster)
• Mohawk Valley (Fulton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Schoharie)
• North Country (Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence)
• Southern Tier (Broome, Delaware, Chemung, Chenango, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins); and
• Western NY (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara)

Public and charter schools starting new PLTW computer science programs and serving at least 40% free or reduced-price lunch students can receive US $20,000 for participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training. Grants from Project Lead The Way help eligible New York schools in specified counties launch and expand computer science offerings over two years.

Public and charter schools expanding PLTW Computer Science programs can apply for US $10,000 in funding from Project Lead The Way; awards support participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training. New York schools in eligible Burns & McDonnell communities that meet the free/reduced lunch threshold may benefit if located in a listed county.

Public and charter schools starting new PLTW Engineering programs in select New York counties can receive US $40,000 over two years for participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs. With a mission to expand STEM pathways, Project Lead The Way supports schools serving at least 40% free/reduced-price lunch students.

Public and charter elementary schools launching new PLTW Launch STEM programs in eligible New York counties can receive up to US $20,000 for participation fees, required devices, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training. Project Lead The Way, with Burns & McDonnell, supports schools serving at least 40% free/reduced‑price lunch students over two academic years.

New York public and charter elementary schools already offering PLTW Launch and serving at least 40% free/reduced-price lunch students can use this US $5,000 grant to expand their STEM curriculum and teacher training. Funding from Project Lead The Way and Burns & McDonnell can cover PLTW fees, required devices, equipment, supplies, and core training costs.