Best Grants for Environmental Conservation in Puerto Rico

Conservation districts, state or territory associations and agencies, Resource Conservation & Development Councils, and Tribal organizations in Puerto Rico can access funding through the National Association of Conservation Districts to hire technical assistance staff and expand conservation services. Grants support outreach, conservation education, land stewardship, environmental justice, and civic engagement to help producers implement sustainable practices and strengthen communities.

Puerto Rico environmental conservation partners working near military installations can access funding through the U.S. Department of Defense’s REPI Program; awards up to US $20,000,000 for projects that prevent land-use conflicts, alleviate environmental restrictions, and enhance installation resilience. Eligible efforts must support critical testing and training capabilities across DOD installations and ranges in U.S. states and territories.

Environmental conservation organizations in Puerto Rico working on forest and water resource projects can seek US $250,000 - US $2,000,000 to implement two-year initiatives. Focused on forest health and related water resources, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation supports 10–15 projects, with required non-federal match and potential added match for Tribally led efforts.

Environmental conservation teams that are alumni of the Conservation Leadership Programme and working in biodiverse countries, including Puerto Rico, can receive the Kate Stokes Memorial Award to advance their ongoing conservation efforts. Grants from the Conservation Leadership Programme provide US $5,000 annually to one exceptional CLP alumni team showing strong passion and long-term commitment to conservation work.

Research institutions and universities in Puerto Rico working on environmental conservation and engineering can access funding through the National Science Foundation’s Engineering Environmental Resiliency program. This program supports fundamental research on resource and energy conservation, circular economy, pollution fate and transport, nanomaterials, and engineered systems that protect human health and the environment across U.S. jurisdictions.

Environmental and agricultural organizations working on conservation projects in Puerto Rico can seek funding to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. Grants from USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service help partners co-invest in projects on farms, ranches, and private forest lands, with awards ranging from US $250,000 - US $10,000,000 across eligible U.S. states and territories.

Nonprofits and community partnerships working on environmental conservation and habitat restoration projects in Puerto Rico can apply for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Five Star Grant Program, with awards of US $30,000 - US $150,000. Funding supports water quality improvements, community tree canopy, gardens, and outreach that engage residents in stewardship and expand access to nature.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving veterans through environmental conservation and related initiatives in Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories can seek up to US $100,000 in project funding. Impact100 Global Veterans supports new or expanding programs that restore, revitalize, or enhance natural resources, parks, recreation, and environmental justice for veterans, with funds spent within two years.

Environmental conservation nonprofits in Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories can seek project funding to protect wild species and habitats. Grants from Fund for Wild Nature help small, tax-exempt organizations in the U.S. or Canada that challenge destructive policies and defend native ecosystems, provided they have budgets under $250,000 and receive no government support.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Forest and Woodlands Resource Management program aims to enhance forest health and promote sustainable management practices. It supports initiatives under Executive Order 14225 and The One Big Beautiful Bill, focusing on fire resiliency, habitat conservation, and recovery from pests and diseases. Activities may include tree planting, thinning, and vegetation control, alongside necessary planning and analysis for compliance with environmental regulations.

Environmental and conservation nonprofits in Puerto Rico can seek funding for ecosystem protection, environmental education, and related community projects through La Roche’s corporate donations program. Roche provides accredited charities with support for high-quality initiatives in humanitarian and social development, science and education, community and environment, and arts and culture, managed locally by in-country affiliate offices.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Invasive and Noxious Plant Management program focuses on preventing and controlling invasive species that threaten public lands and native plant communities. These invasive plants impose significant economic burdens and disrupt ecosystems. The program aims to enhance detection, rapid response, and education on invasive species, while also promoting rehabilitation efforts and biological control to protect valuable resources on public lands.

Environmental conservation teams in Puerto Rico working on follow-up projects to a previous Conservation Leadership Programme award can seek funding for direct conservation actions such as lobbying, awareness, education, training, and monitoring. Conservation Leadership Programme provides up to US $25,000 to generate results and data that inform national action plans and international conservation priorities.

Society for Conservation Biology provides Puerto Rico environmental conservation researchers with US $142,100 fellowships for two years of applied postdoctoral work based at a U.S. institution. Early-career Ph.D. scientists focusing on conservation biology or conservation social science may use funding for cutting-edge research, mentorship, and partnerships that inform U.S. and territorial conservation practice.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Fuels Management and Community Fire Assistance program aims to strategically manage vegetation to reduce wildfire risks and impacts. By fostering community preparedness and collaboration with partner organizations, the program enhances local capacities for wildfire mitigation and fuels management. These efforts not only protect communities but also create jobs and promote conservation, aligning with national priorities for sustainable resource use and community resilience against wildfires.

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.

The USDA Forest Service's Invasive Species Program funding opportunity invites proposals aimed at enhancing invasive species prevention. By leveraging existing research and knowledge, projects can create actionable solutions to protect American agriculture. This initiative seeks to connect scientific insights with practical regulatory improvements, thereby reducing the introduction and establishment of new invasive pests. Previous research, including horizon scanning and monitoring sentinel trees, serves as a foundation for developing effective strategies.

The Forest Legacy Program (FLP) invites applications for FY2028 funding to safeguard privately owned forest lands through conservation easements or land purchases. This USDA Forest Service initiative collaborates with State agencies to protect vital forest ecosystems threatened by development. Participants can ensure the preservation of traditional forest uses and public benefits such as clean water, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities. For more details, visit the USDA Forest Service website.

Women-identifying individual artists creating environmental art projects with free public engagement in Puerto Rico and other U.S. locations can apply for up to US $20,000 to advance in-progress work. Focused on themes like regeneration, eco-social engagement, and climate issues, New York Foundation for the Arts supports projects emphasizing ecological and social ethics.

Registered Canadian or U.S. charities and nonprofit organizations with programs in environmental conservation, sustainability, or community development in Puerto Rico can apply for BMO Financial Group’s BMO Gives funding. Eligible projects may advance environmental protection, sustainable energy, or related community initiatives as part of BMO’s broader commitment to thriving, inclusive communities.

Puerto Rico environmental conservation organizations and related nonprofits can access funding through the Yocha Dehe Community Fund to support programs that protect ecosystems and natural resources. Initiatives that also incorporate education, Native arts and culture, environmental protection, or Indigenous rights and sovereignty may be especially competitive within this nationwide funding opportunity.

Youth-led environmental initiatives in North America, including Puerto Rico, can receive US $3,000 awards for impactful conservation and climate projects. Earth Island Institute’s Brower Youth Awards recognize leaders ages 13 to 22 with a cash prize, a short film, and a week of leadership, media, and career development programming.

Young people leading environmental projects in Puerto Rico can receive microgrants to advance their conservation, sustainability, or environmental justice ideas. Earth Island Institute’s New Leaders Initiative awards the John Goddard Prize multiple times a year to support ambitious, youth-led environmental initiatives nationwide, including projects based in Puerto Rico.

Environmental conservation nonprofits and NGOs in Puerto Rico can apply for Brevard Zoo Conservation Fund’s GEAR grants, awarding up to US $1,000 for field equipment, outreach, or professional development tied to in-situ conservation. Eligible 501(c)(3) or equivalent, governmental, and non-governmental organizations may use funds for mission-critical, on-the-ground conservation needs.

Nonprofit organizations in Puerto Rico working on confidence, inclusion, or sustainability programs for young women may be eligible for support from the Aerie Real Foundation. Focused on building confidence, fostering inclusive communities, and protecting the planet, this grant offers up to US $10,000 for program-based projects; U.S. and Canada 501(c)(3)s can apply.

The Arkansas Audubon Society Trust Grants support conservation, research, and education projects focused on Arkansas bird species and their habitats. Established in 1972, the trust offers grants ranging from $100 to $1200, prioritizing projects within the state but considering broader initiatives as well. Eligible applicants include individuals, students, educators, and nonprofits. Proposals are accepted biannually, with meetings held to discuss funding decisions, fostering a community dedicated to avian conservation.

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.