Best Grants for Environmental Conservation in Missouri

Missouri environmental and community nonprofits can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants to support environmental conservation, safety, workforce development, community vitality, and sustainability projects. 501(c)(3) public charities serving Union Pacific–served Missouri communities may request US $5,000 - US $30,000 for direct services or capacity-building work, with a focus on diverse and underrepresented populations.

Students planning projects to improve wildlife habitat in Missouri can receive up to US $4,000 for hands-on conservation work such as planting, protecting, or managing habitat. Webster Groves Nature Study Society supports environmental conservation efforts through scholarships paid to the student’s institution, which manages the research stipend for eligible habitat-improvement projects.

Environmental and community organizations in Missouri seeking in-kind materials for safety, sustainability, workforce development, or community projects can apply through the Norfolk Southern Foundation. Focused on environmental conservation and thriving communities, this year-round program provides physical donations, not cash, to groups located within Norfolk Southern’s service territory.

Missouri 501(c)(3) organizations working on conservation education, research, or natural resource protection can apply for Conservation Foundation of Missouri Charitable Trust’s Carl Morrow Annual Giving Program; awards US $250 - US $5,000. Funding supports projects of statewide significance in areas like wildlife, forests, parks, outdoor recreation, water quality, and environmental conservation.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Missouri working on environmental conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, or health can seek capital or special project funding through the James M Cox Foundation. Eligible U.S. organizations must be in a Cox service area, and those outside metropolitan Atlanta need a local Cox management endorsement letter.

Focused on environmental conservation, TC Energy Foundation invites Missouri nonprofits, charities, municipalities, Indigenous groups, and associations to apply for Build Strong grants of US $2,500 - US $25,000. Funding supports projects that protect and enhance the environment, strengthen resilient communities, and demonstrate measurable community impact near TC Energy operations.

Organizations and researchers working on environmental conservation and bird-related projects in Missouri can apply for grants of US $500 - US $1,200 to support research, conservation, and education efforts. Grants from Arkansas Audubon Society help U.S.-based projects focused on birds and related natural resource issues, with priority for work connected to Arkansas species or habitats.

Missouri environmental conservation and youth-serving nonprofits can access funding through Aerie Real Foundation for programs that build confidence in young women, foster inclusion, or advance sustainability and climate action. U.S. and Canada-based 501(c)(3) organizations may receive up to US $10,000 for projects aligned with confidence, inclusion, or protecting the planet.

The Creley Memorial Conservation Grant, established by the St. Louis Audubon Society, supports bird conservation and education projects in the St. Louis region. Funded by a generous family donation, the grant aims to strengthen collaborations and initiate partnerships that promote bird conservation. With an estimated $7,000 available for the 2025 grant cycle, this initiative reflects SLAS's commitment to fostering awareness and understanding of birds and their habitats, helping communities make informed ecological decisions.

The Howe Foundation, established by Thomas E. Howe in Clark County, Nevada, supports U.S. charitable organizations focused on education, medical advancements, and game hunters associations. Grants are administered by Wells Fargo Bank, with applications reviewed annually in September. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt under the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for meaningful community initiatives.

Environmental conservation nonprofits and organizations in Missouri can apply for the Growth, Engagement and Resources (GEAR) program to cover essential operational costs for in-situ fieldwork. Grants from Brevard Zoo Conservation Fund offer up to US $1,000 for field equipment, outreach materials, or professional development that clearly supports organizational growth and conservation impact.

The Outdoor Fund - Local Impact Grant supports local organizations and projects that enhance community engagement and align with conservation goals. With grants up to $5,000, eligible projects include youth fishing clinics and trail maintenance. Funded by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, this initiative exemplifies their commitment to wildlife conservation and connecting communities to the outdoors. Eligible applicants include municipalities and registered nonprofits in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on specific conservation efforts.

Nonprofits and community organizations supporting safe, vibrant, or sustainable communities in Missouri counties where Enbridge operates can apply for Enbridge’s community grants. Focus areas include environmental conservation, habitat restoration, youth services, community safety, and Indigenous and social services initiatives. Typical awards range from US $1,000 - US $10,000, with higher support possible for national organizations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental conservation, health, education, and family welfare in Missouri can seek up to US $25,000 for operations or new projects. Hulston Family Foundation supports community-based efforts in West Central and Southwest Missouri, prioritizing Jackson and Greene counties, with funding decisions made twice yearly following a required letter of inquiry.

Young people leading environmental projects in Missouri can apply for microgrants that help expand conservation, sustainability, and environmental justice initiatives. Grants from Earth Island Institute’s New Leaders Initiative support ambitious, youth-led efforts nationwide, so Missouri youth working on local environmental conservation projects may be eligible to receive funding to grow their ideas.

Youth leaders ages 13 to 22 in Missouri working on environmental conservation or related issues can receive US $3,000 plus leadership development support through the Brower Youth Awards. Earth Island Institute offers a cash prize, a short film about each winner’s work, and a week of training and networking for North American awardees.

Nonprofit organizations working on environmental conservation and related community needs in Missouri and across the U.S. can seek support for programs in environmental protection, health and wellness, education, and Native arts and culture. Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation’s Community Fund prioritizes efforts that help people help themselves, including initiatives advancing Native rights and Tribal sovereignty.

The Bureau of Land Management's Plant Conservation and Restoration Program (PCRP) aims to enhance the native seed supply chain, crucial for restoring resilient public lands. By collaborating with various partners, PCRP seeks to improve rangeland health, restore wildlife habitats, and create job opportunities. In 2026, the focus will be on local seed collections, supporting farmers entering the native seed market, and developing innovative technologies to ensure effective restoration outcomes and ecological resilience.

Missouri environmental conservation organizations and CESU network partners can seek cooperative funding to support research, technical assistance, education, and capacity-building projects. Missouri conservation groups can access funding through the National Park Service to collaborate on applied ecosystem studies within the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units network across U.S. biogeographic regions.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

Community Action Fund

A grant for Indigenous frontline organizations, groups, and individuals for direct action initiatives.

The Community Action Fund (CAF) grants support non-violent direct actions and organizing efforts that are often urgent and time sensitive. CAF prioritizes frontline, grassroots and community-based efforts that defend Indigenous peoples rights, communities and Nations.

Community Action Fund Intent

This grant supports Indigenous frontline, grassroots, community-based groups and organizations, Tribes, communities and villages, and individuals leading non-violent direct action or movement-building work in their effort to DEFEND Indigenous People’s rights, and protect their land, air, water, and natural resources.

The Oak Foundation Grant supports not-for-profit organizations worldwide aiming to create a safer, fairer, and sustainable future. With a commitment to social justice, the foundation encourages innovative approaches and long-term partnerships. Grants range from USD 25,000 to USD 10 million, focusing on projects that address root causes, ensure sustainability, and foster collaboration. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity and flexibility, aiming to build resilient organizations capable of making lasting impacts.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Edison Scholars Program, sponsored by Edison International, offers $12,500 annually to thirty high school seniors pursuing degrees in STEM fields at accredited U.S. colleges. This renewable scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need and reside in Southern California Edison’s service territory. Scholars also gain access to a paid summer internship after their first year. Eligible majors include engineering, mathematics, and computer sciences, fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders.

SITKA Ecosystem Grants support projects that enhance ecosystems and promote conservation efforts. These grants encourage both grassroots initiatives and larger organizational projects, aiming to improve habitat restoration, biodiversity, and the hunting experience. With funding ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, applicants must be 18 years or older and have relevant experience. The review process is ongoing, and projects should emphasize collaboration and measurable impacts on environmental goals, benefiting both society and ecosystems.

The REPI Challenge, initiated by the DOD's REPI Program, aims to protect critical testing and training capabilities through funded projects. Since 2012, over $193 million has been allocated to 69 initiatives, leveraging more than $512 million in partner contributions. The upcoming 2026 REPI Challenge will focus on strategic mission safeguarding, with up to $20 million available for preventing land use conflicts and enhancing military resilience, thus ensuring the longevity of vital defense capabilities.