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Best Marine Grants

Find marine grants for ocean conservation, habitat restoration, marine biology research, and coastal resilience.

196

Available grants

$82.5M

Total funding

$20K

Median grant

196 grants
$82.5M total
$20K median

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196 Results based on applied filters

Biennial Research Competition

Hawai‘i Sea Grant
Association/Society
Hawaii
Up to US $100,000
Hawai‘i Sea Grant, part of a national network established in 1966, promotes the understanding and stewardship of marine and coastal resources through applied research, outreach, and education. The upcoming Biennial Research Competition focuses on critical research tracks including Island Sustainability and Resilience, Ocean Acidification, and Aquaculture. By supporting multidisciplinary initiatives, Hawai‘i Sea Grant aims to address pressing public concerns and disseminate valuable information across Hawai‘i and the Pacific.
Environmental Education Fisheries Aquaculture +3 more

Marine Navigation Improvement Fund Grant (OR)

Business Oregon
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Marine Navigation Improvement Fund Grant (OR) provides essential funding for port projects in Oregon, supporting both federally and non-federally authorized navigation improvements. The program aims to enhance navigation facilities, ensuring they meet safety and operational standards. Eligible projects may receive loans or grants, with funding determined by project type and readiness. Ports interested in applying must adhere to specific criteria and provide necessary documentation to secure funding. This initiative is crucial for boosting local economies and maintaining vital transportation routes.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Job Creation

AWWA Scholarship Program - Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship

American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Association/Society
North America
US $3,000
The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship, honors a graduate student dedicated to advancing research in drinking water quality, environmental science, and public health. Established in 2020 by the American Water Works Association, this $3,000 scholarship aims to support innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the water industry. By investing in future leaders, AWWA reinforces its commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Epidemiology & Public Health Academic Scholarship Programs +34 more

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship

Hawai‘i Sea Grant
Association/Society
Hawaii
US $7,000
The Hawaii Sea Grant: Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) offers undergraduates the chance to engage in ocean sciences research and environmental studies in Hawaii and the Pacific. Running from June 8 to August 14, this full-time program pairs students with mentors from various institutions. Participants will gain hands-on experience, attend workshops, and present their findings at a symposium, all while receiving a $7,000 stipend to support their research efforts.
Fisheries Aquaculture Climate Change Resilience & Equity +2 more

Knauss Marine Policy Fellowships

Maryland Sea Grant
State/Local Government
Maryland
US $76,400 - US $93,900
The Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship offers graduate students a unique opportunity to engage in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resource policy-making. Established in 1979, the program pairs students with hosts in the U.S. Congress or executive branch for a year-long paid fellowship. With awards ranging from $78,100 to $95,600, fellows gain invaluable experience while contributing to important environmental decisions. Eligible students must be enrolled in a graduate program and demonstrate an interest in marine policy.
Coastal Conservation Marine / Ocean Conservation Environmental Policy

Competitive Graduate Research Fellowship

Maryland Sea Grant
State/Local Government
District of Columbia, Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Competitive Graduate Research Fellowship, offered by Maryland Sea Grant, supports graduate students conducting research on critical issues affecting the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. This fellowship emphasizes social relevance and community engagement, particularly focusing on underserved populations. Awarded fellows receive a stipend of $34,000, tuition remission, and travel allowance. A professional mentor is required to ensure research aligns with the needs of resource managers and policy makers. Applications are encouraged from a diverse pool of candidates.
Coastal Conservation Environmental Policy Hydrology +5 more

MMUF Dissertation Grant

Institute for Citizens & Scholars
Private
United States
Up to US $30,000
The MMUF Dissertation Grant, funded by the Mellon Foundation, supports doctoral candidates who are alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. This grant aids scholars in completing their dissertations, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in academia. With up to $30,000 for a 12-month period, the program encourages candidates to secure additional funding from their institutions. The initiative aims to bolster access to education and foster understanding among varied backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape.
Humanities & Social Science Art & Culture Religion & Spirituality +11 more

National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program

Restore America’s Estuaries
Corporate
Alameda County, California, Albany County, New York +207 more
US $200,000 - US $500,000
The National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation +6 more

Coastal Fund (CF) Grant - Minor Funding

University of California, Santa Barbara
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $1,000
The Coastal Fund (CF) Grant provides vital funding to support projects that preserve and enhance coastal ecosystems at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Aimed at fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship, the grant encourages proposals that align with the Coastal Fund's mission. Eligible applicants include UCSB-affiliated departments and registered nonprofits, with funding typically around $200,000 allocated quarterly. This initiative is essential for advancing ecological research and restoration efforts in the Santa Barbara region.
Environment Ecology Land / Habitat Conservation +6 more

F26AS00023 FY2026 Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue and Response Grant Program

US Department of the Interior: Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $150,000
The F26AS00023 FY2026 Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue and Response Grant Program offers crucial financial support for marine mammal rescue efforts. This initiative aims to assist eligible participants in the recovery and treatment of stranded marine mammals, provide emergency response to stranding events, and enhance scientific research on marine mammal health. The program prioritizes applications that effectively address species-specific needs and bolster the capacity of stranding networks, ensuring the welfare of marine wildlife under the management of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Wildlife Health

John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue Assistance Grant (363929)

DOC NOAA - ERA Production
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $150,000
The John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue Assistance Grant supports the recovery and care of sick or injured marine mammals through federal assistance to the U.S. National Marine Mammal Stranding and Entanglement Response Networks. Eligible applicants must provide a Prescott Letter of Eligibility, confirming their participation in the network. This program aims to enhance marine mammal health monitoring and response capabilities across the country, ensuring timely and effective interventions for stranded marine life.
Wildlife Management Marine / Ocean Conservation Environmental Health

Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP): Marine District Habitat Restoration

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
State/Local Government
New York
Up to US $2,000,000

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

Marine District Habitat Restoration

Project Type Description

Projects that improve the ecological condition of waters within the marine district with the intent to support a spawning, nursery, wintering, migratory, nesting, breeding, or foraging environment for fish and wildlife, and other biota.

Not-for-profit organizations are required to complete the Vendor Prequalification process to be considered eligible to apply for this grant.

Water Resource Management Marine / Ocean Conservation Coastal Conservation +1 more

Request for Proposals (RFP) for Immersive Experience Room at Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Up to US $250,000

About Us

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is the official non-profit partner of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, supporting its system of 18 marine environments from Massachusetts to American Samoa and the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys. We protect these iconic places, care for marine wildlife and habitats, honor our nation’s maritime history and cultural traditions, and promote the enjoyment of these public waters through a combination of coalition-building, private fundraising and federal support. 

In a quarter of a century, we’ve expanded and deepened people’s connections and access to our ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes, and built partnerships with coastal communities and businesses alongside the over 629,000 square miles of public waters that belong to all Americans. 

Request for Proposals (RFP)

Immersive Experience Room at Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC)

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, in cooperation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is excited to request proposals to work with the Mokupāpapa team and exhibition designer to create and install an audio visual immersive experience space on site at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC) in Hilo, Hawaii.

Marine / Ocean Conservation Media Arts Ecotourism +1 more

DARRP Restoration Implementation Grants (2026)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $2,500,000 - US $100,000,000
The DARRP Restoration Implementation Grants aim to enhance marine and coastal habitat restoration through collaboration between NOAA and non-federal partners. These grants address oil spills and hazardous substance releases by supporting restoration activities authorized under various environmental laws. Eligible applicants will implement projects that promote sustainable fisheries, recover endangered species, and boost local economies. Through careful planning and evaluation, recipients will contribute to effective restoration strategies that align with NOAA's mission and the needs of coastal communities.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Marine / Ocean Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution +2 more

American Lobster Initiative (ALI) Collaborative Research

Mid-Atlantic Sea Grant
State/Local Government
Connecticut, Maine +5 more
Up to US $100,000

About 

The National Sea Grant College Program was established by the U.S. Congress in 1966 and works to create and maintain a healthy coastal environment and economy. The Sea Grant network consists of a federal/university partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and 34 programs in every coastal and Great Lakes state, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium is a regional collaboration that includes 8 Sea Grant programs in 7 Northeast states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium collaborates on regional initiatives in research, education, extension, and communications—leveraging local expertise to create regional benefits and accomplishments.

American Lobster Initiative (ALI) Collaborative Research

The Sea Grant American Lobster Initiative is pleased to announce funding to support new collaborative research projects that closely align with emerging lobster industry and management needs. This request for proposals (RFP) adds to the substantial breadth of previous ALI-funded research by prioritizing projects that create “actionable science” (outputs and findings of the scientific process are useful to and usable by end-user communities) through the co-creation of information and/or products. 

To reach this goal, the ALI seeks to support collaborative research practices, the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and resources/capacities amongst the many people who comprise the American lobster industry. Projects must be developed and led by collaborative research teams that include at least one fishing industry representative, such as a commercial fisherman or a representative from a commercial fishing business, including cooperatives, dealers and processors. This call emphasizes research conducted with and for the industry, offering an exciting opportunity to support and elevate industry-research-management partnerships to address current ecological, regulatory, and socio-economic challenges faced by the American lobster fishery.

The Sea Grant American Lobster Initiative invites proposals for collaborative research projects to be funded from December 1, 2026 to December 31, 2028. Projects can be up to two years in duration, with a recommended duration of no less than 18 months. 

This opportunity is designed to support collaborative research conducted by those affiliated with the American lobster industry (including shoreside supply chain businesses), and any public or private higher education institution, municipal, state, federal, or tribal entity, research laboratory, or other community or non-profit institution. This opportunity is not open to single investigator proposals.

A total of $400,000 is available to support up to 8 two-year project awards. Project budgets cannot exceed $100,000 (including all direct and indirect costs), and must include non-federal cost share is required for this competition. See full RFP for guidance.

Marine / Ocean Conservation Economic Services & Development Environmental Economics

Utah Species Protection Account Grant

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
State/Local Government
Utah
Unspecified amount

About Us

Who we are

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, serves the people of Utah by managing, sustaining and enhancing the state's wildlife populations and by conserving wildlife habitat. The division also oversees hunting and fishing opportunities statewide.

As public servants, DWR employees seek to balance social- and science-based management and are eager to cultivate and strengthen partnerships with any individual, organization or agency that will commit time or other resources to benefit wildlife or expand recreational opportunities.

We want to pass along our wildlife heritage to future generations, and we want it to be in better shape than when it was passed to us. We also actively work to preserve Utah's important hunting and fishing heritage in a way that benefits wildlife and Utah residents alike.

Utah is home to diverse and abundant wildlife, and the division has received national recognition for its wildlife management, world-class fisheries and variety of non-game species. DWR consistently performs wildlife transplants for turkeys, sage-grouse, bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, pronghorn and river otters. Ongoing work is being done to protect sensitive species, like native cutthroat trout, and to prevent federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. Popular fisheries are regularly stocked with hundreds of thousands of pounds of fish raised in division hatcheries.

The division's innovative habitat program leads North America in restoration efforts. Through Utah's Watershed Restoration Initiative and with the help of over 100 partners, the state has restored and rehabilitated nearly 2.25 million acres of land statewide.

Utah Species Protection Account

Protection, research, management and conservation

Utah's Species Protection Account — formerly the Endangered Species Mitigation Fund — has a mission to protect Utah's plant and animal species of greatest conservation need, as well as species recognized as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

The primary objective of the Species Protection Account is to direct funds toward the protection, conservation and recovery of federally listed species and species of greatest conservation need as identified in the Utah Wildlife Action Plan. Working with partners, our goal is to prevent additional species from being listed under the ESA, and work toward downlisting or delisting species already listed under the ESA.

Environmental Conservation Herpetological Conservation Ornithological Conservation +6 more

Natural Community Conservation Planning Local Assistance Grant

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $576,000

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

CDFW’s MISSION is to manage California's diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public.

Natural Community Conservation Planning Local Assistance Grant Program

Description

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife seeks proposals for highest priority projects associated with the implementation of an NCCP. The intention of this Proposal Solicitation Package (PSP) is to solicit proposals of the highest quality that are consistent with the goals of the NCCP Program. Proposals must address the highest priority tasks associated with the implementation of an NCCP such as:

  • Management Activities: Immediate management actions on newly acquired NCCP reserve lands.
  • Restoration/Enhancement: Restoration or enhancement of habitats or species populations on NCCP reserve lands.
  • Monitoring: Design and implementation of biological monitoring programs identified in an NCCP, including the establishment of sampling methods, monitoring plots, data collection, management, and analysis.
  • Reserve Management Plans: Development and implementation of individual reserve management plans.
  • Mapping: New or updated mapping in support of NCCP management or monitoring activities, such as vegetation community mapping.
  • Targeted Studies for Adaptive Management: Studies to evaluate management actions for covered habitats or species, and whether such actions are meeting stated goals or require adjustments through adaptive management.
  • Other: Other non-land acquisition priority tasks, identified by the applicant and implementing partners, which are needed to ensure effective implementation of the NCCP.
Environmental Conservation Herpetological Conservation Ornithological Conservation +10 more

Maine Natural Resource Conservation Program (MNRCP) Grant

State of Maine Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Maine
US $35,139 - US $3,014,882

About MNRCP

The Maine Natural Resource Conservation Program (MNRCP) awards competitive grants to projects that restore, enhance, and protect high priority aquatic resources throughout Maine. MNRCP is administered by The Nature Conservancy on behalf of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Since its launch in 2008, MNRCP has awarded over $36 million to non-profit groups, municipalities, and public agencies to help restore, enhance, or preserve wetlands and other important habitats at over 180 project sites across the state.

MNRCP was created to manage the allocation of funds collected through Maine’s In Lieu Fee Compensation Program. This voluntary program provides flexibility for regulators as well as for those seeking natural resource permits to choose a fee in lieu of more traditional permittee-responsible mitigation options. These so-called In Lieu Fees are collected by the Maine DEP and then transferred to the Natural Resource Conservation Fund administered by The Nature Conservancy.

Funds are awarded through an annual competitive grants process. Proposals are solicited each year and evaluated by a Review Committee, convened by the Maine DEP, and made up of public and nonprofit entities. Final award decisions are made in November or December of each year by the Interagency Review Team (Approval Committee) comprised of state and federal agencies. The Nature Conservancy administers the process but does not decide which proposals receive funding.

Apply

MNRCP awards competitive grants each year to projects that restore, enhance, and protect high priority aquatic resources in Maine. MNRCP funding rounds are usually announced in April or May. Public agencies, non-profit conservation organizations, tribes, and municipalities are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent for eligible projects.

Environmental Conservation Freshwater Conservation Coastal Conservation +2 more

Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) Grant

Maine Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
Maine
Up to US $250,000

Small Harbor Improvement Program

The Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) promotes economic development, public access, improved commercial fishing opportunities and works to preserve, and create, infrastructure at facilities in tidewater and coastal municipalities. The SHIP program assists municipalities in improving or creating facilities, such as public wharves, piers, landings and boat ramps. There is a required 50% local share under this program. The SHIP program can provide up to $250,000 in assistance towards eligible projects.

Ongoing Program for Future Funding Assistance

This grant application is open to tidewater communities that can demonstrate a need to improve economic activity and access to a tidewater river or the ocean on publicly-accessible property. Typical types of projects funded under this program include commercial and municipal wharf improvements, hoist systems, boat ramps, gangways, stairwells to clam flats, piling replacements, etc.

The goal of this program is to promote economic development, and improve public marine infrastructure and public access. MaineDOT urges each community to contact us as soon possible with your project ideas/needs to begin the process for potential inclusion in upcoming budgets. MaineDOT will schedule site visits as needed once a letter of intent has been filed. Once a letter of intent project has been deemed eligible, the community will be able to submit an application.

Marine / Ocean Conservation Fish Conservation Public Infrastructure +3 more

Cattaraugus County Trappers Memorial Scholarship

Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation
Private
United States
Approximately US $500

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.

Education - Higher Education Environmental Conservation Natural Resources +5 more

Offshore Wind Science and Research RFP

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC)
State/Local Government
Cumberland County, Maine, Hancock County, Maine +10 more
US $50,000 - US $500,000

Offshore Wind Science and Research RFP

Massachusetts remains committed to offshore wind as a key energy source to provide critically needed energy, spur economic development, and create good-paying jobs. MassCEC recognizes that offshore wind development occurs in a dynamic ocean environment that supports existing marine industries of economic and cultural importance, is inhabited by critically endangered wildlife, and is itself undergoing climate-induced changes. These variables, among others, present a wide range of technical, logistical, and analytical research opportunities related to the offshore wind industry, particularly now that several projects have or soon will reach commercial operation. Focused science and research activities, and the organizational capacity to conduct that science and research, are needed in the near- and long-term to inform, optimize, and catalyze industry growth.   

The 2026 RFP will fund up to $2.5 million for projects aligned with priority research areas identified by MassCEC. While a broad array of research projects will be eligible to apply, this round of funding has also specified topic areas of interest within each of the following categories:

  • Fisheries: Understanding Effects in Southern New England Lease Areas
  • Wildlife and Habitat
  • Regional Transmission Planning
  • Gulf of Maine Regional Monitoring
  • Communicating Existing Science and Research

MassCEC has allocated up to $2.5 Million Dollars ($2,500,000) in funding for awards and commitments under the Solicitation. We expect that awards will range from approximately $50,000 to $500,000. An application proposing higher amounts of MassCEC funding must present a compelling case for the funding need and potential outcomes toward achieving the Objectives.

Fisheries Marine / Ocean Conservation Wildlife Rehabilitation & Sanctuaries +2 more

Ruth Foundation

Gary E Milgard Family Foundation Sunshine
Private
Pierce County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Ruth Foundation offers ongoing support for non-profit organizations focused on animal welfare and marine life preservation in Pierce County, Washington. With no submission deadline for Letters of Intent (LOI), applicants are encouraged to allow 12-16 weeks for a response. The foundation seeks to empower community initiatives that align with the Milgard family values, while ensuring compliance with tax-exempt requirements and promoting inclusivity in grant eligibility.
Animal Welfare - General Homelessness Services Mammalian Conservation +1 more

Binational Resilience Initiative Grant- Coastal/Marine Grants

The San Diego Foundation
Private
Imperial County, California, Mexico +1 more
Up to US $100,000

Binational Resilience Initiative Grant

The Binational Resilience Initiative (BRI) builds resilience in the Cali-Baja region by supporting binational projects that strengthen the capacity of our communities to adapt to the impacts of our changing climate. A partnership of San Diego Foundation (SDF), International Community Foundation (ICF), Resilient Cities Catalyst (RCC), and the San Diego Regional Climate Collaborative (SDRCC), we are leading an innovative, community-driven process that recognizes the interdependent environmental, economic, and cultural assets in San Diego and northern Baja California and strengthens resilience by addressing climate vulnerabilities through binational collaboration and localized solutions.

The Funding Opportunity

The Binational Resilience Initiative supports projects that build resiliency in the Cali-Baja region. We will expand the network of binational partners advancing the resiliency of the region between San Diego County and northern Baja California coastal communities, as well as expand funding to generate innovative binational approaches and thriving communities. Grantmaking goals for BRI include expanding binational, scientific climate collaboration as well as advancing coastal/marine resilience from an integrated, regional approach.

Specific Criteria for BRI Coastal/Marine Grants

  • Focus on coastal/marine resilience: where the work proposed helps increase our region’s understanding of climate change effects on our coastal/marine resources.
  • Effective demonstration of binational collaboration: where the work proposed supports true binational collaboration among U.S. and Mexican community-based organizations, scientists, researchers, educators, and/or government agencies.
  • Contributes to coastal/marine resilience in two or more of these areas:
    • Climate relevance: Directly or indirectly supports efforts that mitigate, adapt or create resilience to impacts from climate change.
    • Economic prosperity: Supports efforts for organizations to obtain additional impact dollars where the project/grant serves to support catalytic funding needs for the organization/project.
    • Knowledge sharing: Supports education and/or communication of binational resilience needs and climate-related impacts.
    • Organizational resilience: Supports efforts related to the long-term resilience and health of the organization, such as resources that directly support organizational capacity building and staff needs.
    • Research: Creating new knowledge, filling gaps in collective understanding and synchronicity with existing research.
  • Nonprofit organizations in Mexico or the U.S. should be the lead applicant but partnerships with other stakeholders are highly encouraged.
  • Each binational partnership proposing a project should include at least one US nonprofit (or an entity with an equivalent tax-exempt status) and one MX nonprofit that is not a subsidiary of the US nonprofit (or an entity with an equivalent tax-exempt status, such as a research center or university.)
  • The budget can include subgrants between nonprofit organizations if these are working on different areas within the same proposed binational project.
  • The budget requested may include up to a maximum of 15% of total direct expenses as overhead or indirect costs. For example, if the total budget requested from BRI is the maximum allowed of $100,000 per project, then the indirect costs cannot exceed 15% of the direct costs ($86,957 in combined direct costs, plus a maximum of 15% of these (as indirect costs), will add up to the maximum of $100,000 per project).
  • Funding requested can be up to $50,000 per year per organization, regardless of the number of partnerships or projects each organization collaborates with.
  • Funding requested can be up to $100,000 per year, per binational project; this maximum includes requests for BRI funding from all partners per binational project.
  • Funding can be requested for up to one year. Larger funding requests may require additional information and documentation. 
Marine / Ocean Conservation

TryMarine Grant

Friends of Reservoirs
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

TryMarine Grant

The Reservoir Fish Habitat Partnership (RFHP) is seeking candidate pilot sites for evaluating two water quality treatment technologies—TryMarine and Oase Water Technology—in small urban fishing lakes (1–3 acres).

Urban fishing lakes are important community resources, providing accessible angling opportunities and supporting local outdoor recreation. Many of these lakes experience nutrient‑driven water quality impairments such as algal blooms, low dissolved oxygen, and reduced water clarity. These issues degrade fish habitat and diminish angler satisfaction.

This pilot initiative aims to identify lakes where these technologies can be tested to determine their effectiveness, feasibility, and potential for broader application across the RFHP network.

Objectives

Water Quality & Habitat Objectives

  • Reduce nutrient concentrations (total phosphorus, total nitrogen).
  • Improve water clarity and reduce turbidity.
  • Reduce harmful algal blooms (HABs).
  • Increase dissolved oxygen stability to support sportfish populations.
  • Improve habitat conditions for stocked and naturally occurring fish species.
  • Reduce internal nutrient loading from sediments.

RFHP Program Objectives

  • Demonstrate scalable tools for improving fish habitat in small urban lakes.
  • Support community‑based fisheries enhancement.
  • Provide case studies and data for future RFHP guidance.
  • Strengthen partnerships among agencies, municipalities, NGOs, and angling groups.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Coastal Conservation Fish Conservation

Africa - Impact Seed Fund

Pulitzer Center
Private
Africa
US $2,000 - US $4,000

Pulitzer Center

The Pulitzer Center has a bold vision: to be the venue for the world’s most innovative and consequential reporting, with journalism as the key element for mobilizing society through audience engagement strategies.

Founded in 2006 by Jon Sawyer, the Center is an essential source of support for enterprise reporting in the United States and across the globe. The thousands of journalists and educators who are part of our networks span more than 80 countries. Our work reaches tens of millions of people each year through our news-media partners and an audience-centered strategy of global and regional engagement.

Africa - Impact Seed Fund

Themes:

  • Climate & Labor
  • Rainforest
  • Transparency and Governance
  • Ocean

The Impact Seed Funding (ISF) is a micro-scale education grant that aims to support a range of education activities that can enrich the perspectives and knowledge on the socio-ecological challenges, solutions, and innovation about issues of rainforest, oceans, climate and labor crisis impact to the university/school community, specifically students and educators.

The main objective of the grant is to cultivate more curious, informed, empathetic communities on the underreported issues of Oceans and Climate change. Ultimately it aims to inspire change of perspectives, narratives, and actions amongst the communities. The Africa ISF projects will put the Pulitzer Center’s Climate & Labor, Rainforest, Transparency and Governance as well as Oceans Reporting Network (ORN) stories at the center of its engagement and activities. 

The Africa ISF will provide micro-scale grants to:

  • Initiate new collaborations or develop existing collaborations among teachers, researchers, students, and journalists;
  • Increase engagement between education communities, journalists, and local communities;
  • Stimulate the use of creative visuals (e.g., comics, animated videos, photos, short videos, documentary, podcasts), data visuals and information from the reportages in teaching materials, student activities, curriculum and class materials, or scientific publications;
  • Stimulate the introduction and promotion of DEI friendly tools in teaching materials, student activities, curriculum and scientific publications. (DEI = Diversity, Equity and Inclusion). Gender equality and Handicap issues among young students to be prioritized.
  • Facilitate the adoption of featured findings in the reportages to relevant research and other scientific products.

Requirements

  • The project must center around the stories reported by the Rainforest Grantees and Fellows or Climate & Labor grantees;
  • The activity must showcase an intended impact towards the audience of the academic/school community (students or Fellow lecturers/researchers), or civil society;
  • The project must be implemented in consultation with the relevant Pulitzer Center’s grantees or Fellows;
  • The project must demonstrate a strong Diversity, Equity and Inclusion approach;
  • Applicants must deliver financial and narrative reports at the end of the grant period, detailing costs and results. 

Type of Activities

Examples of successful ISF grant activities and outputs may include, but are not limited to:

Student Engagement:

  • Insertion in teaching materials, on-campus debates, social issues hackathons, student-led debates and dialogues
  • Visuals production and dissemination (short videos, documentary, podcast, content);
  • On-campus mini exhibition
  • Journalism workshop for student press clubs

Mobility/local Community Engagement:

  • Knowledge exchange activities, student visits, biodiversity expeditions, citizen journalism 

Support for Research Activities:

  • Data adoption to improve ongoing research accuracy, insertion of data or knowledge in a book chapter

Forestry Marine / Ocean Conservation Journalism +2 more

Environmental and Social Impact Grant

World Wildlife Fund
Private
Kenya, Madagascar +1 more
Up to US $15,000

World Wildlife Fund

Since our founding in 1961, WWF has been committed to protecting nature and its resources. We understand that nature is our planet’s greatest asset, intrinsically linked to human survival — and that it needs our help. Our work to reverse nature loss and conserve biodiversity has never been more urgent.

As the world’s leading conservation organization—with offices on six continents and in nearly 100 countries—our global reach includes the world’s most critical forests, river systems, wetlands, savannas, and ocean habitats. By conserving these places and supporting sustainable livelihoods within them, we can keep the Earth in balance for people, wildlife, and the planet.

Environmental and Social Impact Grant

WWF’s Russell E Train Education for Nature Program (EFN) invites proposals focused on collaborative capacity building related to (i) environmental and social impacts and risks of development projects on ecosystems and their services and (ii) enhancing inclusive conservation and sustainable development. The Environmental and Social Impact Grant aims to provide competitive financial support to teams and institutions working in Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar focusing on enhancing capacities to address environmental and social impact assessment capacity building needs with an emphasis on local communities and local practitioners.

The proposals should target diverse audiences involved in addressing social and environmental issues associated with the execution and management of conservation and development initiatives, particularly with a focus on WWF key goals including climate, food, forests, freshwater, oceans, and wildlife.

Forestry Environmental Conservation Marine / Ocean Conservation +5 more

RESTORE Act Direct Component - Construction and Real Property Acquisition Activities (356562)

U.S. Department of the Treasury
Federal Government
Ascension Parish, Louisiana, Assumption Parish, Louisiana +15 more
Unspecified amount
The RESTORE Act Direct Component offers funding for construction and real property acquisition activities aimed at environmental restoration in the Gulf Coast region. Eligible projects include natural resources protection, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis as long as funds are available. This program seeks to mitigate damage from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and enhance the ecological and economic resilience of affected areas.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Ecology Natural Resources +9 more

Marine Grants Highlights

Marine grants provide funding to support ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries, and marine research initiatives. The following grants help nonprofits protect marine ecosystems, combat pollution, and promote sustainable practices for ocean health.


Search Instrumentl's Marine Grants Database


Find 58 funding opportunities for marine-focused initiatives, with $63.8M available. Instrumentl supports organizations with grant-matching tools, deadline reminders, and funder research to advance marine conservation efforts.

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

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits, research institutions, conservation organizations, and government agencies focused on marine conservation, oceanography, and sustainable fisheries are eligible to apply. Many grants also support climate resilience and coastal restoration efforts.

Marine grants generally have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q2, with 27.1% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q1.

Marine grants fund projects that promote ocean conservation, sustainable fishing practices, marine biodiversity protection, and climate change adaptation. Funders seek to advance marine research and protect aquatic ecosystems.

On average, grants that support marine life and related research provide funding between $1,000 and $51,250,000, with typical awards falling around $116,250 (median) and $1,519,513 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Pew Charitable Trusts, and marine-focused private foundations provide Marine grants.

State and local governments also provide funding for marine biology research, and ocean and coastal conservation. Some corporate funders like Restore America’s Estuaries also offer fundings through their National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program.

To improve grant success, nonprofits should:

  • Align with marine conservation priorities – Tailor proposals to match current marine conservation goals and focus areas.
  • Demonstrate Environmental Impact – Provide data-driven results to show the positive effects of their project on the marine environment.
  • Build Strategic Partnerships – Collaborate with scientists, policymakers, and local fishing communities to strengthen their proposals and enhance credibility.
  • Develop a Compelling Narrative – Use real stories and case studies to highlight the significance and potential of your marine conservation project.

Not sure how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.

Instrumentl makes it easier for marine researchers and conservation groups to find and apply for grants. It helps them discover the right funding opportunities, keep track of deadlines, and understand what funders are looking for. This way, organizations can manage their applications more efficiently and focus on protecting our oceans. Discover how the University of Illinois centralized grant information to make work more collaborative and efficient.