Best Grants for Land Conservation in Indiana

Grants from Cleveland Cliffs Foundation help Indiana land and habitat conservation nonprofits, as well as other 501(c)(3) organizations, fund projects in communities where the company operates. Eligible programs may focus on environmental restoration, creating green spaces, or broader efforts in education and healthy, vibrant communities across the U.S. and Canada locations listed.

Land and habitat conservation organizations in Indiana seeking to expand regenerative agriculture and conservation practices on private lands can access funding through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Conservation Partners Program, awarding US $250,000 - US $750,000. Grants support technical assistance to landowners for planning, implementing best practices, engaging in Farm Bill programs, and sharing conservation lessons learned.

Public sites in Indiana seeking funding for native plant research, demonstration gardens, or land management and conservation projects can apply for US $400 - US $2,000 from Indiana Native Plant Society. These grants support habitat restoration, invasive species control, and public native plant landscaping that advance land and habitat conservation goals.

Indiana land and habitat conservation nonprofits restoring diminished native tree species can access funding through the Oak Hill Fund for project-specific work. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations across the continental U.S. may seek support for scientific research, seed orchard development, and forest land preservation tied to specific species restoration projects, including necessary project overhead.

Indiana land and conservation nonprofits can seek funding for land acquisition, environmental restoration, education, and stewardship projects that protect ecologically significant natural areas. The Laura Hare Charitable Trust supports not-for-profit organizations with a strong record in environmental protection and a primary mission of preserving and maintaining undeveloped lands for conservation and public access.

Agricultural producers, forest owners, Indian tribes, and other land stewards in Indiana can receive support to enhance conservation on working lands through the Conservation Stewardship Program. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Indiana offers technical and financial assistance to improve soil, water, air, wildlife habitat, and overall land and habitat conservation on cropland, pasture, rangeland, and private forestland.

Private landowners and American Indian tribes in Indiana can apply for USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service of Indiana’s wetland reserve easements to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands on eligible farmed or converted lands. Funding covers a significant share of easement and restoration costs, supporting long-term land and habitat conservation and wildlife benefits.

Graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in fields like natural resources or land and habitat conservation in Indiana and nationwide can gain paid, practicum-based experience through the Conservation Connect Fellowship Program; awards up to US $6,870 for part-time project work. With a mission to develop collaborative conservation leaders, National Forest Foundation provides emerging professionals with mentorship, training, and hands-on public lands projects that may benefit future land conservation efforts in Indiana.

Nonprofit organizations and other eligible entities working on land and habitat conservation, ecosystem restoration, and related environmental initiatives in Indiana and across the U.S. may be eligible for grants from Biophilia Foundation, typically ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000. Funding supports private land conservation, low-tech watershed restoration, restorative economies, and conservation policy efforts, with a focus on systemic, nature-based solutions.

Eligible partners working on land and habitat conservation near military installations in Indiana and other U.S. locations can apply for the REPI Challenge, which offers up to US $20,000,000 for projects. Funding from the U.S. Department of Defense supports compatible land use, alleviates environmental restrictions, and enhances military installation resilience.

Nonprofits, university researchers, and conservation-focused individuals in Indiana and beyond can apply for SITKA Ecosystem Grants, typically ranging from US $3,000 - US $20,000, to improve ecosystem health and stewardship. Projects nurturing natural systems, restoring habitat, or enhancing outdoor access and education may be invited to submit full proposals after an initial inquiry.

Indiana 501(c)(3) organizations working on land and habitat conservation, community development, or related services can access funding through the Erich & Hannah Sachs Foundation to strengthen economically and educationally disadvantaged communities. Support includes program-related investments and grants for self-sustaining projects, which may benefit land preservation efforts alongside housing, education, health, and youth services initiatives.

Focused on water stewardship, Bell's Brewery invites U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for grassroots grants of US $500 - US $5,000 for projects that protect water resources and ecosystems. Indiana land and habitat conservation groups may be eligible if their work strengthens ecosystem health, improves water use for communities, or builds climate-related water resilience.

Indigenous-led grassroots groups, organizations, Tribes, and Indigenous individuals in Indiana working on non-violent direct action to defend land, water, and natural resources can apply for NDN Collective’s Community Action Fund, with awards up to US $15,000. Funding covers supplies, equipment, contractual services, and travel for urgent, frontline land and habitat protection efforts.

The Jandy Ammons Foundation provides Indiana land and habitat conservation nonprofits with capital funding for shovel-ready projects such as wildlife conservation, park settings, and community areas. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) public charities undertaking specific, standalone projects, which may also include educational components or artistic installations that enhance natural spaces.

Nonprofit organizations, government entities, sportsmen’s groups, and educational institutions in Indiana can apply for Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation hunting heritage grants to support conservation education and outdoor traditions. Funding may benefit land and habitat conservation, wildlife management, and outdoor skills or mentored hunting programs that strengthen long-term stewardship of natural resources.

Cascades Donations and Sponsorships focuses on building sustainable partnerships in education, entrepreneurship, and amateur sports. They support community organizations, promote healthy lifestyles, and recognize student engagement through grants. Cascades prioritizes projects in its operational regions and encourages initiatives that address climate change and foster inclusivity. Their funding approach is rooted in creating lasting positive impacts and supporting the next generation of leaders while adhering to their values and philosophy.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations working on land and habitat conservation, wildlife protection, or related advocacy can apply for Park Foundation’s animal welfare grants. Funding supports nationally significant efforts such as endangered species policy, indigenous wildlife management, and habitat protection, which may benefit Indiana land conservation and biodiversity initiatives.

Indiana universities, nonprofits, and other research-focused organizations working on land, habitat, coastal, marine, atmospheric, or climate-related conservation can access funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for innovative research, education, outreach, or sponsorship projects. This broad agency announcement may benefit Indiana land conservation efforts connected to climate, ecosystems, or coastal and watershed resilience.

The Steven C. Leuthold Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) non-profits in areas such as land conservation, environmental protection, human services, and animal welfare. Founded in 1991 by philanthropist Steven C. Leuthold, the foundation prioritizes organizations that align with its giving preferences. Applications are due by June 30, 2025, with grants distributed by December 2025. Note that incomplete applications will not be accepted.

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.

Apply for Chicago Region Land Conservation Grants

We offer general operating and project grants to organizations that further natural and working land protection and stewardship in the greater Chicago region, with emphasis on integrating climate resiliency, advocacy, and inclusive conservation strategies. ​

Primary Goals of the Foundation’s Chicago Region Land Conservation Strategy

Cattaraugus County Trappers Memorial Scholarship

Created by the Cattaraugus County Trappers Association, this scholarship will be awarded to a graduating high school student who plans to pursue a degree in Natural Resources Conservation, Fish & Wildlife Management, Forest Management or similar area of study at a 2- or 4-year college. Financial need will be considered. Applicants must include list of outdoors sports in which they participate, a statement on importance of the role of sportsmen in conservation and management of fish and wildlife and natural resources, and information on career path in their goal statement.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Coastal Program offers vital technical and financial support for projects aimed at protecting and restoring fish and wildlife habitats in priority coastal ecosystems. Collaborating with conservation partners, the program ensures that all projects are scientifically sound and align with the missions of the Department of the Interior. Applicants must contact a local office for guidance before applying, ensuring projects meet strategic conservation goals.

The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Classic for FY 2026 encourages collaboration between the NRCS and partners to address critical natural resource concerns through innovative projects. By co-investing with partners, the program aims to enhance conservation efforts on farms and private lands, ensuring equitable access to NRCS services. Selected proposals will be based on their potential impact and effective partnership management, ultimately improving environmental outcomes across designated Critical Conservation Areas.

The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements for FY 2026 aims to enhance NRCS conservation efforts through strategic partnerships. This initiative encourages collaboration among stakeholders to address critical natural resource issues across farms and watersheds. By co-investing in impactful projects, NRCS strives to improve resource management in designated Critical Conservation Areas, supporting both partners and producers in achieving sustainable outcomes.

The National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) Land Acquisition and Construction Program for Fiscal Year 2026, funded by NOAA, aims to enhance research and education by supporting land acquisition and construction projects. With approximately $8.5 million available, the program prioritizes strategic expansions of Reserve boundaries and facility enhancements, ensuring sustainable design standards. Funding will support 5-20 projects over 12-36 months, with potential extensions for complex projects, contingent on available funds and negotiations.