Best Water Grants in Ohio

The Joyce Foundation's Environment Grants focus on addressing critical environmental challenges in the Great Lakes region, such as climate change and water safety. The foundation prioritizes equitable, carbon-free energy solutions and clean water access for all communities. Grants are awarded to organizations committed to environmental justice and innovation in climate policy, particularly in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin, ensuring that the voices of affected communities guide project development.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is offering grants under the Clean Water Act Section 319(h) to support projects that improve water quality in Ohio streams. With a total funding of $2.5 million, eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations. Projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution and restoring impaired stream segments are prioritized. This initiative provides 100% funding for projects lasting up to three years, enhancing habitats and reducing pollutants.

The Aquatic Stewardship Grant Program, managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance aquatic stewardship through engaging educational experiences. Eligible organizations, including schools and conservation groups, can apply for up to $7,500 per fiscal year for projects that promote hands-on aquatic education. Key criteria include the necessity for educational components in fishing activities and a commitment to inclusivity for all participants.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The H2Ohio Rivers Initiative: Chloride Reduction Grants support Ohio municipalities, townships, villages, and counties in adopting best management practices to reduce chloride from deicers impacting water resources. Grants, up to $75,000, aim to improve storage and application of road salt to protect aquatic ecosystems. The program addresses the growing concern of chloride pollution in Ohio's waterways by funding necessary equipment and facilities, promoting collaboration among local governments to maximize impact.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program aims to enhance the state's vital water resources by funding projects that restore and protect high-quality streams and wetlands. Despite progress, challenges like habitat degradation and siltation threaten water quality. The program offers a maximum funding of $15 million to support initiatives that address these ecological concerns and promote biodiversity, ensuring the health of Ohio's waterways for future generations.

The Ohio Environmental Science and Engineering Scholarships provide up to $5,000 for undergraduate students in their junior or senior year at Ohio colleges, focusing on environmental science or engineering. This nonrenewable scholarship supports tuition, fees, and educational materials, excluding housing. Selection criteria include academic performance, relevant experiences, and community service. Funded by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, this initiative aims to encourage students committed to environmental careers.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Ohio provides essential funding for rural communities to develop clean drinking water systems and effective waste disposal solutions. This program supports various projects including the construction and improvement of water sourcing, sewer systems, and solid waste management. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring that underserved areas receive the necessary resources for sustainable development.

The Ohio Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation practices while improving their operations. It offers technical and financial assistance tailored to meet specific goals such as improving soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat. With year-round application acceptance and annual payments for implementing conservation practices, CSP encourages participation through flexible contract options. This program is vital for achieving sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship in Ohio.

The Water Supply Revolving Loan Account (WSRLA), managed by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, provides vital financial assistance for enhancing community water systems. For Program Year 2026, the agency invites project nominations, offering low-interest loans and potential principal forgiveness funds. This initiative aims to support necessary improvements in both community and non-profit non-community public water systems, ensuring access to safe drinking water for all Ohio residents.

Ohio Water Development Authority

The Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA) provides financial assistance for environmental infrastructure from the sale of municipal revenue bonds through loans to local governments in Ohio and from the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for qualified conduit projects in Ohio.

Mission Statement: To provide financial assistance for environmental infrastructure from the sale of municipal revenue bonds through loans to local governments in Ohio and from issuance of industrial revenue bonds for qualified projects in Ohio.

Un-Sewered Area Assistance Program

Program Description

The Ohio Water Development Authority created the Un-Sewered Area Assistance Program to provide grants for construction of a publicly owned sewer system for unsewered areas that have failing on-lot sanitary systems.

Please note, projects must be constructed using State of Ohio Prevailing Wage rates. Extension of an existing sewer system is not eligible for this program.     

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The Natural Areas Research Grant - Allison Cusick and Daniel Rice Research Grant Program, managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, aims to support research that enhances understanding and conservation of Ohio’s biological resources, including plants, animals, and fungi. Named after key contributors to Ohio's ecological knowledge, this program funds projects that align with its mission to preserve natural heritage. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for eligible individuals and organizations.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service in Ohio, offers vital technical and financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. This program addresses environmental challenges like soil erosion, water quality, and improved wildlife habitats, fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Applications are accepted year-round, providing ongoing opportunities for producers to enhance their land management while contributing to conservation efforts across Ohio.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources offers the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program, providing up to 50% reimbursement for eligible local government subdivisions. This funding supports the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of recreational areas. Since its inception, Ohio has received over $165 million, with a significant portion allocated to local parks. Applicants must adhere to the state's SCORP priorities and own the property involved in the project.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Mission: To ensure a balance between the wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all.

About H2Ohio

H2Ohio is Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s statewide water quality initiative designed to address complex issues impacting Ohio’s waters. Launched in 2019, H2Ohio uses a comprehensive approach guided by science and data to reduce algal blooms, stop pollution, and improve access to clean drinking water by supporting best farming practices, road salt runoff reduction, litter cleanup, dam removal, land conservation, and water infrastructure revitalization.

H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery Grant

The H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery Grant promotes clean water and rivers across Ohio. The program supports livery owners in removing trash from rivers and addressing long-standing cleanup needs. The grant supports up to $10,000 in costs to clean up Ohio’s rivers and streams. 

Livery owners and their staff spend countless hours on their home waters supporting healthy use of Ohio’s natural resources. They know the trash cleanup needs of their river. Many sponsor cleanups and sweeps but are often unable to handle larger trash types or host enough volunteers to manage their litter problems. This program will boost their efforts.

All grant expenditures and cost share contributions must occur during the program period.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and a vibrant Southeast Michigan community. Since its inception, it has invested over $180 million in environmental, cultural, and educational initiatives. As it transitions to spend down its assets by 2034, the Foundation aims to make bold, impactful investments that address urgent community needs and promote sustainable development.

The Lake Erie Environmental Justice Grant, awarded by the Ohio Lake Erie Commission, aims to support restoration projects in historically underserved communities within Ohio's Lake Erie watershed. Funded through the U.S. EPA’s Great Lakes Environmental Justice Grant Program, this initiative focuses on enhancing stormwater management, strengthening coastal resilience, and advancing environmental justice. With a significant grant of up to $750,000, OLEC collaborates with partners like Black Environmental Leaders and Rural Action to ensure equitable resource distribution and impactful outcomes.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The Biophilia Foundation Grants support biodiversity conservation on private lands, focusing on systemic change through community engagement. The foundation encourages organizations to submit letters of inquiry detailing their mission, tax status, funding requests, and intended outcomes. They prioritize private land conservation, ecosystem restoration, and innovative policy initiatives, especially in the arid Southwest and Chesapeake Bay regions. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with larger amounts available for established partnerships.

The Laird Norton Family Foundation, based in Seattle, prioritizes grants that reflect family values in arts education, climate change, human services, and watershed stewardship. Their approach emphasizes equitable educational opportunities, carbon sequestration, support for youth at risk of homelessness, and long-term ecological health. They focus on organizations that address social justice and community needs, particularly in King County, WA, and the West Coast. Note: No unsolicited applications are accepted.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

The Doris Duke Foundation's Environment Program grants aim to foster a resilient environment through effective conservation efforts. By supporting U.S. nonprofit organizations, the foundation seeks to protect biodiversity, address climate change, and advance equity, particularly for marginalized communities. The program emphasizes land conservation, natural climate solutions, and inclusive practices, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and people. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the health of ecosystems and communities across the United States.

The Sam J. Frankino Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children and families in need through monetary grants for education, health care, and community support. With a focus on initiatives that empower disadvantaged youth and support the Italian-American community, the Foundation aims to foster growth and development in Northeast Ohio. Guided by philanthropic excellence, it seeks to create lasting change through strategic partnerships and innovative programs for social betterment.

The Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, offered by New Hampshire Sea Grant, provides a unique opportunity for undergraduates to engage in marine resource projects while receiving mentorship and training. This paid fellowship supports students interested in marine-related research and education, with potential earnings of up to $5,000 over a 10-week summer period. By participating, fellows gain valuable insights into coastal and marine management, enhancing their skills and expanding their professional networks.

The Ohio Coastal Management Assistance Grants provide funding for projects that improve water quality, enhance coastal habitats, and promote public access to Lake Erie. Eligible recipients, including local governments and non-profits, can apply for grants with a required 1:1 non-federal match. Since 1998, over $8 million has been awarded for 155 projects, with total investments exceeding $13 million. These grants support vital coastal planning, education, and habitat restoration efforts.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.