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Best Environmental Education Grants

Get grants for environmental education projects that promote sustainability, conservation, and ecological awareness in communities.

537

Available grants

$12.2M

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

537 grants
$12.2M total
$6K median

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537 Results based on applied filters

MEEA Environmental Educator Mini-Grant

Missouri Environmental Education Association
Association/Society
Missouri
US $250
The MEEA Environmental Educator Mini-Grant supports educators in Missouri by providing funding for innovative environmental education projects. Established in 2013, this grant program awards eight grants of $250 each annually to enhance sustainability education. Open to all MEEA professional members, it prioritizes proposals that engage underrepresented groups in environmental learning. Funded by Debby Barker in memory of her husband, Lou Clairmont, this initiative aims to inspire and educate while promoting conservation efforts across the state.
Environmental Education

Community Conservation Program

Virginia Environmental Endowment
Private
Virginia
More than US $50,000
The Community Conservation Program, funded by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, supports conservation initiatives in specific Virginia counties and cities. Focused on water quality protection, land conservation, and environmental literacy, the program encourages proposals that demonstrate measurable results, with funding starting at $50,000. Organizations are advised to seek informal reviews of their proposals before submission. VEE favors projects that leverage matching funds, thereby enhancing community engagement and environmental sustainability.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Education Freshwater Conservation +3 more

Neighborhood Reinvestment Program

San Diego County
State/Local Government
San Diego County, California
Unspecified amount
The Neighborhood Reinvestment Program offers grants to County departments, public agencies, and non-profit organizations for various community needs, including education, environmental awareness, and public safety. Eligible non-profits must focus on one or more specified areas, while public agencies can enhance community quality of life. Priority is given to capital projects and one-time expenses. Grant funds cannot be used for prohibited purposes such as religious activities or political campaigning.
Recreation Education Business Development +8 more

Sustainability Project Grant

NYCPS Office of Energy & Sustainability
State/Local Government
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Up to US $5,000
The Sustainability Project Grant by the DOE Office of Sustainability supports NYC Public Schools in implementing impactful sustainability projects. Schools can apply for funding up to $5,000 for initiatives that enhance environmental education, create gardens, or promote climate action. The grant aims to empower diverse school communities and foster climate literacy, ultimately contributing to healthier environments and social equity. Priority is given to schools with higher economic need and those that haven't received funding previously.
Sustainability Environmental Education Horticulture & Gardening

Charlotte Peterson Outdoor Education Grants

Environmental Education Foundation, Inc.
Private
Walworth County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Charlotte Peterson Outdoor Education Grants, offered by the Environmental Education Foundation, aim to preserve and enhance outdoor educational experiences for elementary and middle school students in the Geneva Lake area. Established over 25 years ago, these grants provide crucial financial support to schools facing budget cuts, ensuring that students can engage with the natural world and develop environmental awareness. By supporting these programs, the Foundation honors the legacy of Charlotte Peterson and impacts hundreds of children each year.
Environmental Education Outdoor Recreation Youth Services

LCBP: Educator Mini-grants

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
Addison County, Vermont, Bennington County, Vermont +15 more
Up to US $1,000
The Lake Champlain Basin Program offers Educator Mini-grants to support educators in acquiring materials for teaching about Lake Champlain Watershed issues. These grants enhance classroom learning and are available to educators within the Basin who have met specific eligibility criteria. Funds can be used for educational resources that last beyond one academic year. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged to secure funding.
Environmental Education

OKC Living Classroom Grant Program

Oklahoma City Zoo
Private
Canadian County, Oklahoma, Cleveland County, Oklahoma +8 more
Up to US $1,500
The OKC Living Classroom Grant Program aims to combat the decline of monarch butterflies, which have seen an 80% population drop due to habitat loss. This initiative, led by the Oklahoma City Zoo and partners, provides funding and resources to K-12 schools in the Oklahoma City metro area to create gardens that include essential milkweed and nectar plants. Schools will receive professional development, financial support, and curriculum materials to foster environmental education and conservation efforts.
Entomology Botanical Conservation Horticulture & Gardening +2 more

Puyallup-White River Watershed Small Grants

Pierce County Planning and Public Works / Puyallup Watershed Initiative
State/Local Government
Pierce County, Washington
Up to US $2,500
The Puyallup-White River Watershed Small Grants program by Pierce County is designed to enhance environmental literacy and improve habitat and water quality across key watersheds. Open to various applicants including nonprofits and schools, it supports projects like invasive species removal and nature-based education. Successful proposals align with watershed councils' action agendas. The program promotes community involvement and sustainable practices, ensuring that local ecosystems thrive while fostering educational opportunities.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Land / Habitat Conservation +1 more

Key Peninsula-Gig Harbor-Islands (KGI) Watershed: Lu Winsor Environmental Grants

Pierce County Planning and Public Works / Puyallup Watershed Initiative
State/Local Government
Pierce County, Washington
Up to US $3,000
The Key Peninsula-Gig Harbor-Islands (KGI) Watershed Lu Winsor Environmental Grants support community-driven projects to enhance habitat and water quality. Managed by Pierce County in collaboration with local organizations, grants of up to $3,000 are available for initiatives such as invasive species removal and educational programs. Applications are open from March 3 to April 30, 2025, welcoming all eligible applicants including nonprofits, schools, and individuals.
Land / Habitat Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation +1 more

DCNR Circuit Rider Grant

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The DCNR Circuit Rider Grant offers funding to support the hiring of full-time staff for regional park, recreation, and conservation initiatives. Eligible applicants include county and municipal governments, as well as multi-municipal agencies. Grant funding covers salaries and approved training expenses, decreasing over four years from 100% in the first year to 25% in the fourth year. This program enhances local capacity for effective recreation and conservation management.
Recreation Parks & Public Spaces Environmental Conservation +1 more

IowaDNR: Conservation Education Program (CEP)

Iowa Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Iowa
Up to US $350,000
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the Conservation Education Program (CEP) to enhance environmental awareness and stewardship among Iowa citizens. With $350,000 available, eligible applicants include educational institutions and organizations. The program aims to support effective curricula and educator stipends, promoting sustainable practices. Grant recipients must maintain detailed records and submit progress reports. Preference will be given to projects that emphasize conservation stewardship and incorporate educational materials across multiple disciplines.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Education Environmental Stewardship +1 more

Environment Anne Arundel Fund Grant

Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County
Private
Anne Arundel County, Maryland
US $3,000 - US $10,000
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.
Environmental Stewardship Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Environmental Education +3 more

AFM: Allegany Community Out Reach (ACOR) Grants

Allegany Franciscan Ministries Inc.
Private
Hillsborough County, Florida, Martin County, Florida +4 more
Up to US $10,000
The Allegany Community Outreach (ACOR) Grants, funded by Allegany Franciscan Ministries, aim to improve health and quality of life in marginalized communities through short-term support for local projects. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations affiliated with the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany or Trinity Health. Priority is given to initiatives promoting self-sufficiency and holistic wellness, particularly for marginalized groups such as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and low-income populations. Applications may request program or general operating support.
Social Justice / Human Rights Basic Human Needs Environmental Education +3 more

Wayne County Community Youth Foundation Grants

Wayne County Community Foundation
Private
Wayne County, Ohio
US $250 - US $5,000
The Wayne County Community Youth Foundation Grants support charitable organizations that benefit youth in Wayne County, Ohio. Applications are accepted annually until February 1 for projects starting after May 15. Grants cover various categories, including arts, education, and health. Eligible organizations must be recognized as nonprofit or educational entities. The foundation does not fund scholarships, deficit financing, or religious activities unless for non-religious programs. Ensure compliance with eligibility criteria for successful applications.
Youth Services Youth Involvement in the Arts Youth Development & Leadership +2 more

Bamford Foundation Grants

The Bamford Foundation
Private
Pierce County, Washington
Up to US $15,000
The Bamford Foundation, established in 1990, aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and strengthen communities in Tacoma and the South Puget Sound region. With a focus on operational and program-related grants, the foundation prioritizes collaborations that foster equity, diversity, and access. In 2026, it will concentrate on smaller grants to maximize impact, particularly in basic needs, early learning, expanded opportunities, and access to higher education and job training.
Food Access & Hunger Homelessness Services Supportive Housing & Shelters +17 more

Whittenberger Foundation Grants

Claude R. & Ethel B. Whittenberger Foundation
Private
Ada County, Idaho, Adams County, Idaho +8 more
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Whittenberger Foundation supports innovative projects in Southwest Idaho that enhance the lives of children and young people. Focused on areas such as education, health, and arts, the Foundation aims to create measurable impacts through its funding. It prioritizes organizations that demonstrate potential for long-term sustainability and effective use of resources. Grants are typically awarded to nonprofits that align with these values, ensuring a legacy of community support and development.
Child Welfare Services Youth Involvement in the Arts Youth Services +6 more

ECCF: Lake Erie Environmental Education Fund

Erie County Community Foundation
Private
Erie County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The ECCF: Lake Erie Environmental Education Fund supports projects that promote environmental awareness through educational workshops and field trips for students, specifically addressing local environmental issues. Funded by the Erie County Community Foundation, this initiative encourages collaboration among non-profit organizations to enhance community benefits and sustainability. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations serving Erie County residents, focusing on projects that foster learning about the environment.
Environmental Education

WCF: CAPACITY Grants

Winona Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Winona County, Minnesota
Up to US $15,000
The Winona Community Foundation offers competitive grants aimed at addressing critical needs in the Winona area, supporting a variety of charitable organizations. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies within a fifteen-mile radius of Winona. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance community wellbeing, environmental conservation, and public access to nature. Note that grant recipients from cycle 2 of 2023 are ineligible for this cycle, and only one application per nonprofit is accepted annually.
Community Services Environmental Conservation Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology +3 more

Grand Forks: Community Foundation Grant Program

Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks, and Region
Private
Grand Forks County, North Dakota, Polk County, North Carolina
Up to US $10,000
The Grand Forks Community Opportunity Grant Program aims to enhance community life through projects in arts, culture, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities serving Grand Forks, Walsh, or Polk County. Projects must start after October 1, 2024, and conclude by September 30, 2025. Preference may be given to new initiatives and applicants, fostering innovation and community engagement.
Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation Human & Social Services +7 more

CFNV: Environment Fund

The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +7 more
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Environment Fund, launched in 2018 by The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, aims to protect and enhance the natural environment of Northern Virginia. It fosters collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, and educational institutions to promote awareness and citizen engagement in environmental protection. In 2025, funding will support nonprofit organizations providing educational programs in conservation, energy efficiency, sustainability, watershed management, and workforce climate initiatives, specifically targeting areas within Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Health Natural Resources +3 more

Arts Program: Arts Education and Public Engagement Grants ( For organizations or projects with budgets over $50,000 )

The Onion Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $60,000
The Onion Foundation's Arts Education and Public Engagement Grants support organizations with budgets over $50,000 in Maine. The program prioritizes access to arts education, public engagement, and capacity building for arts organizations. Grants can be general operating or project-based, with amounts reaching up to $20,000 annually. Emphasizing equity and diversity, applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the foundation's strategic goals to foster creativity and cultural sharing within Maine's communities.
Environmental Stewardship Music Environmental Education +11 more

Monarch Watch: Free Milkweeds Grant

Monarch Watch
State/Local Government
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Monarch Watch offers a Free Milkweeds Grant for habitat restoration projects aimed at supporting the monarch butterfly population. The program provides free milkweed plugs to schools and educational non-profits that demonstrate clear educational goals, long-term maintenance plans, and adequate space for the plants. With over 730,000 milkweeds distributed since 2015, this initiative plays a vital role in restoring habitats along key migration routes in the eastern and western U.S.
Environmental Education Horticulture & Gardening Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

C3F: Environment and Land Use Grants

Charlevoix County Community Foundation
Private
Charlevoix County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Charlevoix County Community Foundation offers the Environment and Land Use Grants to support nonprofit projects that promote environmental education, protection, and sustainability within the Lake Charlevoix Watershed. This initiative encourages collaboration and innovative approaches to community needs, fostering long-term positive impacts. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits, government units, and educational institutions that serve the Charlevoix County area. The Foundation prioritizes well-planned proposals that align with community goals and benefit natural resources.
Environmental Education Environmental Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +2 more

ICCF: Community Improvement Grants

Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan
Private
Iosco County, Michigan
Up to US $10,000
The ICCF Community Improvement Grants support projects addressing education, human services, workforce development, and environmental initiatives that benefit Iosco County residents. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) non-profits, government entities, schools, and universities. Grants can reach up to $10,000 per cycle, with final reporting required. Notably, projects cannot receive funding for two consecutive cycles and must not promote religious beliefs or support individuals. This program aims to enhance community well-being and sustainability.
Education Community Services Parenting Counseling & Education +13 more

Annual Environmental Grants

The Rockfall Foundation
Private
Middlesex County, Connecticut, New London County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Rockfall Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Annual Environmental Grants Program, aimed at non-profit organizations, municipalities, and schools. This program supports projects focused on environmental conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Eligible expenses include materials, transportation, and program fees. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the environment and align with the foundation's priorities, including environmental justice and youth engagement.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Education Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +1 more

The Carol Kelley Schools and Trees Fund

Trees New York
Private
New York
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Carol Kelley Schools and Trees Fund, supported by Trees New York, aims to enhance New York City’s urban forest through educational partnerships with local schools. Founded in 1976, Trees New York has planted over 5,000 trees in underserved communities, training thousands in tree care and stewardship. This fund honors Carol Kelley’s legacy by promoting community involvement in the preservation and growth of the city’s green spaces, ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.
Greening & Beautification Horticulture & Gardening Environmental Education

Mark W. Schwiebert Fund for Environmental Studies Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Clinton County, Iowa, Henry County, Illinois +4 more
Up to US $2,850
The Mark W. Schwiebert Fund for Environmental Studies, established in 2016, supports educational programs and research addressing climate change and resource depletion. It emphasizes projects that are financially and technically feasible, with a focus on public education and impactful returns on investment. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, universities, and governmental entities, particularly those serving Rock Island County, Illinois, and Scott County, Iowa. Funding is not available for marketing campaigns, deficit funding, or projects already completed.
Environmental Education

Environmental Education Grants Highlights

Environmental education grants support programs that promote awareness, sustainability, and ecological literacy. These grants help nonprofits engage schools, communities, and policymakers to foster conservation, stewardship, and informed environmental action.


Search Instrumentl's Environmental Education Grants Database


Discover 155 funding opportunities for environmental education, with $5.8M available. Instrumentl offers nonprofits tools for tailored grant searches, deadline management, and funder insights, empowering impactful environmental learning programs.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Environmental Education Grants

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

200+ Environmental Education Grants grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

46 Environmental Education Grants over $25K in average grant size

34 Environmental Education Grants over $50K in average grant size

23 Environmental Education Grants supporting general operating expenses

100+ Environmental Education Grants supporting programs / projects

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Sustainability

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Environmental Conservation

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Environmental Education grants?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
28.2%
Q2
24.8%
Q3
24.0%
Q4
23.0%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Environmental Education Grants?

Grants are most commonly $12,500.

$250 $250 Min.
$12,500 $12.5 K Median
$54,482 $54.5 K Average
$1,300,000 $1.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Environmental education grants are available for organizations dedicated to environmental education and sustainability, including schools, universities, nonprofits, nature centers, museums, and government agencies. Many funders support K-12 programs, teacher training, outdoor education, and community/youth engagement initiatives, while others fund projects that connect science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education with real-world environmental challenges.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for environmental education, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 28.2% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

Environmental education grants aim to fund programs or projects that increase awareness of environmental issues, promote greener choices, and encourage conservation efforts. Specifc initiatives may teach people how to protect natural resources, get neighborhoods involved in community clean-ups, engage people in hands-on learning, or hold sustainability workshops.

Funding for environmental education grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $1,300,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $12,500, while the average grant awarded is $54,482. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Funding for environmental education grants comes from government agencies, corporate sustainability programs, and private foundations. Federal government funders include the US Department of the Interior’s National Park Service (NPS) and Americorps. The John Sage Foundation and the James E. Dutton Foundation are examples of private foundations involved in environmental education grants, along with corporate funders such as Sony, Outdoor Gear Exchange, and Chick FIl A.

To improve the chances of being awarded environmental education grants, applicants should:

  • Align with environmental education goals – Show how your project supports existing goals and efforts in place, whether it’s in your local community or on state and federal levels.
  • Show community impact – Make it clear to funders how your project will successfully educate and inspire people to take better care of the environment.
  • Emphasize interactive learning – Hands-on programs that engage participants in real-world environmental activities stand out in grant proposals.
  • Collaborate with schools and local organizations – Partnerships with educators, nonprofits, or government agencies strengthen your proposal and expand your reach.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for environmental education grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

See how Instrumentl supports nonprofits and grant writing consultants.

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Grants for Environmental Projects in Yuma, AZ Marine Grants in Colorado Springs, CO Marine Grants in Pueblo, CO Grants for Environmental Projects in Augusta, GA Environmental Education Grants in Odessa, TX Geology Grants in Waco, TX Environmental Education Grants in Champaign, IL Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits in Dallas, TX Geology Grants in St. Louis, MO Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits in Worcester, MA Water Grants in Lafayette, IN Biology Grants in Springfield, IL