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Search Through Climate Change Grants in California

The Addressing Climate Impacts' Grant, managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, aims to address urgent water and habitat degradation caused by climate change. This funding supports various projects, including water purchases for wildlife, instream flow protection, and emergency restoration activities. Eligible initiatives should align with the State Wildlife Action Plan and prioritize actions that benefit species in greatest conservation need. The grant encourages biodiversity enhancement and climate resilience.

The Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Grant Program, established by AB109, aims to support conservation projects that enhance resilience against climate impacts in California. With an initial funding of $20 million from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, this program focuses on protecting ecosystems, assisting land managers, and increasing carbon sequestration, while aligning with statewide climate strategies and priorities. It seeks to promote environmental benefits and enhance the sustainability of natural and working lands.

The Coastal Conservancy offers grants to restore and protect California's coast, enhance public access, and improve climate resiliency. With millions in funding available, projects that serve disadvantaged communities or utilize nature-based solutions are prioritized. Applicants must engage with a Regional Manager for eligibility guidance and can expect grants typically between $200,000 and $5 million. This ongoing funding supports various stages of project development, including planning, construction, and monitoring.

The Del Mar Foundation Grant supports community projects that enhance civic pride, preserve open space, and promote cultural activities in Del Mar. Nonprofit organizations can apply for funding to support initiatives like beach improvements and community events. The Foundation encourages applications year-round, with no minimum grant amount, though individual grants cannot exceed 25% of the annual budget. Preference is given to projects directly benefiting the Del Mar community, ensuring a focus on local engagement and sustainability.

The Goldman Fund, established by Lisa and Douglas Goldman, focuses on supporting charitable organizations that enhance society, particularly in the San Francisco area. It prioritizes projects that mitigate climate change and promote sustainable practices on a national scale. The fund invites applications from organizations with 501(c)(3) status and considers grant requests quarterly. Notably, it does not support projects that advocate antisemitic policies or have deficit budgets.

The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Foundation Environment Grant aims to support initiatives that combat climate change, prioritizing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance climate education for young adults. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions and partnerships to address both immediate and long-term environmental challenges. Areas of focus include climate and clean energy policy, as well as providing scientifically accurate climate change education. By leveraging data and research, the foundation seeks to empower organizations dedicated to creating impactful change.

The Climate Resilience Grant Program in California aims to enhance community resilience and capacity by funding multi-benefit, nature-based solutions addressing climate change impacts. This initiative prioritizes projects related to urban and non-urban forest resilience, habitat restoration, and wildfire prevention, contributing to California's goal of conserving 30% of its lands and coastal waters by 2030. Grants typically range from $300,000 to $2,000,000, supporting crucial climate adaptation efforts.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is offering restoration grants to address climate change impacts on fish and wildlife habitats. The program, supported by $35 million from the Budget Act of 2022, aims to enhance biodiversity, promote climate resiliency, and improve public access to natural resources. Eligible projects include water conservation initiatives, habitat restoration, and strategies aligned with the State Wildlife Action Plan. These grants are crucial for preserving California's ecological heritage.

The Restoration Grant Programs by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife aim to protect and enhance salmon habitats in response to drought and climate change. With up to $100 million in funding, the program focuses on projects that restore aquatic habitats, enhance biodiversity, and improve ecological functions. Specific funding allocations include $10 million each for the Scott and Shasta River tributaries, fostering collaboration with local landowners and Tribes to support ecosystem resilience.

The Restoration Grant Programs focus on enhancing wetlands and mountain meadows in California, with up to $54 million allocated for Nature-Based Solutions. This funding aims to restore ecosystems while providing co-benefits associated with climate resilience and biodiversity. Managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, projects must align with the state’s wildlife action plan and promote coexistence with wildlife, including supporting beaver restoration efforts.

The S. H. Cowell Foundation Grant focuses on supporting public and nonprofit organizations in Northern and Central California that address acute poverty and promote racial equity. The foundation prioritizes place-based strategies to fund initiatives that foster child development, family empowerment, and youth leadership. By building on community strengths, it aims to create equitable access to essential services and enhance the overall well-being of families and children, ensuring their voices are integral to program design and implementation.

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC) aims to protect California's agricultural lands from conversion to GHG-intensive uses while supporting climate goals. Through strategic investments, SALC enhances food security and promotes resilient agricultural systems. This program is part of California Climate Investments, which funds initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit disadvantaged communities. Grants are available for agricultural conservation acquisitions, planning, and capacity funding to ensure the preservation of vital agricultural resources.

The California Inflation Reduction Act Grants support Urban and Community Forestry projects aimed at enhancing tree canopy access and community engagement, particularly in disadvantaged areas. With a state allocation of $30.8 million, these grants promote climate resilience, combat extreme heat, and improve forest health. Funded by the USDA Forest Service, the initiative aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of urban trees and fostering community involvement in environmental stewardship.

The Forest Health Grant from CAL FIRE aims to enhance the resilience of California's forests against extreme disturbances such as wildfires and drought. This program supports landscape-scale projects focused on restoring forest health, protecting water resources, and promoting carbon storage. By funding activities that improve forest management and reforestation, CAL FIRE addresses climate change impacts while ensuring the sustainability of vital ecosystems. Eligible projects must demonstrate clear climate benefits through various management practices.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The Dylan Todd Simonds Foundation Grant is dedicated to fostering environmental resilience and social justice, particularly in the Bay Area and Pittsburgh. It seeks innovative projects that enhance sustainable economies and address climate change through inclusive solutions. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations focused on these geographical areas. The Foundation prioritizes impactful initiatives but does not fund conference support, endowments, or organizations outside the U.S. For more details, please refer to the Foundation's FAQs.

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC) offers Capacity and Project Development Grants to enhance organizational capabilities for agricultural conservation projects. These grants aim to protect agricultural lands from conversion to more greenhouse gas-intensive uses, aligning with California's climate goals. By supporting eligible applicants in developing conservation easements and acquisition projects, SALC facilitates smart growth and ensures food security amid climate challenges. This initiative underlines the importance of maintaining healthy agricultural systems in the face of environmental changes.

The Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Grant Program (EEM) in California provides annual funding for projects aimed at reducing environmental impacts from public transportation facilities. Established in 1989 and updated in 2013, it supports urban forestry, resource lands, and mitigation projects. The program focuses on sustainable community development, climate change adaptation, and biodiversity protection, encouraging projects that improve air and water quality, conserve natural resources, and enhance local water supply reliability.

The Henry Arnhold Fellowships, offered by the Mulago Foundation, seek innovative leaders with impactful conservation and climate solutions. This one-year fellowship provides $100,000 in funding, workshops, and a community of experts to help fellows scale their initiatives. The program emphasizes designing high-impact strategies and building sustainable organizations, aiming to create significant environmental change. Applications are open until August 7, 2025, encouraging recommendations for promising candidates.

The Southern Border Coalition's Catalyst Pre-development Fund aims to drive economic resilience and equitable growth in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Through the California Jobs First Initiative, the Coalition seeks innovative proposals that translate strategic plans into actionable projects. This funding opportunity prioritizes disinvested communities, workforce development, and sustainability, aligning with California's goal of creating high-quality jobs while addressing climate change. With $19 million allocated per region, this initiative fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

The Urban and Community Forestry- Green Schoolyards grant aims to enhance outdoor environments for nonprofit child care facilities in California, focusing on climate resilience and educational opportunities. This initiative promotes tree planting and the transformation of pavements into green spaces, fostering natural learning environments. With funding ranging from $200,000 to $6,000,000, this program supports projects that mitigate extreme heat and improve urban ecology, benefiting both children and surrounding communities.

The Michelson Spark Grants focus on addressing urgent educational needs in California, promoting innovative solutions that enhance student persistence and graduation rates. By funding impactful initiatives, this program aims to leverage technology for assessing basic needs, streamline support systems, and enhance campus culture regarding student welfare. Grants prioritize specific milestones that can catalyze new partnerships and innovative projects, while excluding funding for general operating expenses and direct student assistance.

The WHALE TAIL Grants Program, managed by the California Coastal Commission, supports initiatives that engage children and the public with California's coast and watersheds through hands-on education and stewardship. Projects focused on climate change impacts, beach maintenance, and habitat restoration with an educational element are encouraged. The program aims to serve underrepresented communities, ensuring a diverse geographical reach across California, thus promoting environmental awareness and coastal conservation.

The Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program, managed by the UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, aims to enhance the resilience of California’s food systems. It supports projects that promote environmentally regenerative practices, improve access to healthy foods, and strengthen community connections. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting disadvantaged communities and socially disadvantaged groups, ensuring inclusivity in agricultural development while addressing ecological and economic challenges.

The UC SAREP Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program aims to support California's farmers and communities by promoting environmentally regenerative practices and enhancing food system resilience. It offers funding for projects that benefit diverse stakeholders, including education and outreach initiatives, applied research, and planning grants, all with a focus on cultural responsiveness and social equity. Grants range from $10,000 to $20,000, targeting priority groups and fostering collaboration.

The J.M.K. Innovation Prize, awarded by The J.M. Kaplan Fund, supports early-stage social innovators tackling critical issues in environment, heritage conservation, and social justice. With up to $175,000 in funding and tailored support over three years, it empowers organizations to pilot transformative solutions. The Prize fosters collaboration among awardees, providing resources and mentorship to enhance their impact. Open to both non-profit and mission-driven for-profit entities, it addresses the funding gap for innovative, high-potential projects.