Best Water Grants in California

With a mission to support water-focused initiatives, American Water Works Company provides California nonprofits and eligible schools with funding for sanitation, clean drinking water, freshwater conservation, and water resource management projects. 501(c)(3) public charities and K–12 public schools, colleges, or universities in American Water service territories may be eligible.

Small California-based grassroots organizations working on environmental justice, climate resilience, and water-related issues can seek up to US $7,500 for community-based advocacy, organizing, education, and related strategies. The California Environmental Grassroots Fund from Rose Foundation prioritizes groups under $150,000 in annual budget, especially those serving BIPOC, frontline, immigrant, and low-income communities.

California environmental and community organizations working on watershed or source water protection can access funding through Illinois American Water for projects that improve, restore, or protect local surface and groundwater. Eligible projects within American Water service areas include cleanups, habitat restoration, reforestation, hazardous waste collection, and public education, with awards up to US $5,000.

Nonprofit and conservation organizations supporting water and habitat conservation in California can seek US $250,000 - US $750,000 through the Conservation Partners Grant Program to expand technical assistance on private lands. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation funding helps accelerate regenerative agriculture, improve soil and water health, and enhance freshwater and wildlife habitats via Farm Bill conservation programs.

Public agencies, tribes, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in California can seek funding for coastal, watershed, and San Francisco Bay projects that enhance water resources, habitat, and climate resilience. State of California Coastal Conservancy supports planning, acquisition, construction, and monitoring for projects improving public access, natural lands, working lands, and community resilience, with awards from US $200,000 - US $5,000,000.

With a mission to manage fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats, California Department of Fish and Wildlife provides California freshwater and water resource projects with funding to address urgent climate-driven water and habitat degradation. Eligible projects may purchase water, protect instream flows, build conservation projects, or implement emergency restoration and State Wildlife Action Plan strategies.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and K–12 public schools, colleges, and universities in California can seek support for projects that protect watersheds, improve surface or groundwater, promote water conservation, or expand equitable water-based recreation. With a mission to strengthen community water resources, American Water Charitable Foundation provides funding for projects within its California service areas, to be completed within 12 months.

Government agencies, tribal governments, educational institutions, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in California can apply for the PG&E Corporation Foundation’s Better Together Nature Positive Innovation Grant, awarding US $100,000 for land, air, or water stewardship projects. Programs improving freshwater conservation or water resource management, especially in disadvantaged or vulnerable communities, may be strong candidates.

California water agencies, local governments, and partners working on freshwater conservation and water resource management in California can seek funding for riverine and riparian projects that improve fish passage, aquatic habitat, and water quality. California Department of Water Resources supports green infrastructure and climate-resilient projects within the Delta export service area and specified Bay Area and State Water Project regions.

California Native American tribes in California can apply for California Natural Resources Agency’s Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program, awarding US $200,000 - US $10,000,000 for multi-benefit nature-based solutions projects. Funding may support conservation, water resource management, and environmental stewardship efforts, and can include escrow-ready ancestral land return projects and other tribal priorities.

Research institutions and other organizations conducting scientific studies on forestlands and water resources in California can seek funding to evaluate the effectiveness of forest practice rules and related natural resource protections. California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection provides California water and natural resource researchers with support for projects on watershed science, sediment, riparian zones, wildlife, wildfire hazard, and climate resilience.

Public agencies, nonprofit organizations, eligible tribes, public utilities, and mutual water companies in California can seek funding to enhance stream flows for fish and wildlife and improve water resource management. California Wildlife Conservation Board’s Stream Flow Enhancement Program supports projects such as water transactions, conservation measures, habitat restoration, groundwater storage, and related scientific studies.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

The WaterSMART Enhancing Water Resources Projects program invites eligible entities to secure funding for initiatives that enhance water resource management across various sectors, including conservation, infrastructure improvement, and watershed restoration. Priority is given to projects that collaboratively address community needs and yield significant environmental benefits. This funding opportunity aligns with federal priorities aimed at optimizing resource use and improving grant oversight, as outlined in recent executive orders.

Organizations planning water resource management and pollution reduction projects in California can apply for the Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Grant Program, with awards from US $50,000 - US $1,000,000. Grants from California State Water Resources Control Board support activities like stream restoration, agricultural best practices, and infrastructure improvements that protect or improve surface and groundwater quality.

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

The Forest Health Grant from CAL FIRE aims to enhance the resilience of California's forests against extreme disturbances such as wildfires and drought. This program supports landscape-scale projects focused on restoring forest health, protecting water resources, and promoting carbon storage. By funding activities that improve forest management and reforestation, CAL FIRE addresses climate change impacts while ensuring the sustainability of vital ecosystems. Eligible projects must demonstrate clear climate benefits through various management practices.

The Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy Proposition 4 Grant Program aims to enhance climate resilience through nature-based solutions in conservation lands. It supports projects focused on habitat restoration, wildfire risk reduction, and improving public access to outdoor recreation. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting disadvantaged communities and those that align with California's 30x30 conservation goals. Funding is provided through the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.

The WaterSMART Applied Science Grants aim to enhance water management and supply reliability through innovative research and data utilization. By inviting qualified entities to apply for funding, the program focuses on improving hydrologic data access, forecasting capabilities, and modeling tools. This initiative aligns with federal priorities to optimize resources, ensuring water managers can effectively address future demands and adapt to climate challenges, thus fostering resilience in water operations across the nation.

The Water Recycling Funding Program (WRFP) by the California State Water Board supports projects that enhance water supply through the recycling of treated municipal wastewater. The program emphasizes the construction of facilities for treatment, storage, and distribution, with grants covering up to 35% of estimated construction costs. A local cost share of at least 50% is required, which may be reduced for disadvantaged communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with priority scores determined annually.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in California provides essential funding for rural areas to enhance clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, waste management, and storm drainage. Eligible applicants, including local governments and nonprofits, can use the funds for construction, improvements, and related activities like legal fees and land acquisition. This program aims to ensure access to reliable water services and promote public health in underserved communities.

The BH UWC Consolidated Grant Program aims to enhance environmental equity by funding high-impact projects that address climate resilience and improve access to recreational spaces for disadvantaged communities. It aligns with the Cutting Green Tape initiative, focusing on strategic investments in conservation and community access. The program prioritizes projects that directly benefit vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable distribution of resources and measurable community benefits, thereby fostering sustainable development throughout California.

California local governments and non-entitlement jurisdictions can use this program to fund water and wastewater systems, rural utilities, and related public infrastructure that benefit low- and moderate-income residents. The California Department of Housing and Community Development provides Community Development Block Grants supporting housing, community facilities, economic development, and planning tied to these water and infrastructure projects.

Public agencies, schools, nonprofits, community groups, and even for-profit organizations in California can seek sponsorship for community events or initiatives that engage residents in regional water policy or benefit local watersheds. Focused on water resource management and environmental stewardship, Santa Clara Valley Water District invites projects that support safe, clean water and healthy ecosystems.

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) Program in California has been vital for financing projects aimed at enhancing water quality since 1989. The State Water Resources Control Board outlines its plans for SFY 2025-26 in this Intended Use Plan, highlighting significant updates and objectives for funding. This program not only supports environmental health but also fosters sustainable development across the state.

The ACWA Scholarship, established by the Association of California Water Agencies in 1961, aims to support innovative students pursuing education in water resources-related fields. This scholarship offers two awards of $3,500 each for qualified undergraduate students, helping to cover tuition and fees for the upcoming academic year. Eligible applicants must be California residents, enrolled in an accredited university, and committed to full-time studies, ensuring the future of California’s water quality management.

Public dam owners and operators in California seeking funding for water infrastructure safety and resilience projects can apply for the Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program, which supports repairs, rehabilitation, and enhancements at existing state‑jurisdictional dams. Projects may restore storage, reduce flood risk, improve water supply reliability, and protect water quality and habitat.