Best Water Grants in New York

New York organizations conducting water quality and ecosystem research can access funding through the Lake Champlain Basin Program for projects in the Lake Champlain Basin. Grants support freshwater conservation, clean water, habitat restoration, pollution and invasive species control, and broader water resource management, with awards ranging from US $25,000 - US $400,000.

Municipalities and eligible public entities in New York can access financing for wastewater, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure projects through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. Grants from New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation help fund treatment facilities, green infrastructure, landfill closures, and habitat restoration, supporting long-term freshwater conservation and water resource management across the state.

Nonprofit organizations with established 501(c)(3), (4), (6), or (19) status can seek funding for sustainability and water-related projects such as freshwater conservation and water resource management in New York and other eligible states. Grants from Green Mountain Energy help U.S.-based nonprofits implement initiatives like renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation, and sustainable agriculture, with awards ranging from US $50,000 - US $400,000.

New York water-focused organizations with implementable projects to improve freshwater quality can access funding through Hudson River Foundation to reduce impairments in the Lower Esopus Stream. Grants of US $50,000 - US $100,000 support efforts like mitigating turbidity, managing stormwater, stabilizing shorelines, reducing nutrient loads, and addressing flood-related water quality risks.

Nonprofit or conservation-focused organizations helping private landowners adopt regenerative agriculture and conservation practices in New York can seek US $250,000 - US $750,000 for technical assistance and planning. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Conservation Partners Program supports freshwater conservation, water resource management, soil health, and habitat restoration on private lands through Farm Bill conservation programs.

New York farmland owners and conservation partners working on freshwater and drinking water protection can access funding to purchase conservation easements and establish riparian buffers through the NY Source Water Buffer Program in New York. Administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, this program offers approximately US $5,000,000 in cost-share support for long-term buffer and water quality projects.

Nonprofits and community-based organizations in New York and New Jersey can receive $2,000 - $4,000 to host in-person community engagement sessions on estuary health, water quality, and related issues. With a mission to protect and restore the NY/NJ Harbor Estuary, Hudson River Foundation supports sessions that especially engage disadvantaged or overburdened communities.

Public entities and MS4 operators in New York can seek reimbursement funding for planning reports on nonpoint source water quality projects and mapping of Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems. With a mission to protect water resources, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation provides grants up to US $400,000 to prepare projects for construction and future implementation funding.

Environmental and conservation nonprofits in New York can seek funding for water resource management, sustainability, and related environmental projects through the Joseph Robert Foundation; awards are up to US $10,000. Smaller organizations and community-based initiatives, including those focused on pollution, climate change, and parks or green spaces, may receive general operating or project support.

Nonprofits, municipalities, and community partners working on water resource management in New York can seek funding to conduct Lake Wise, Stream Wise, or stormwater educational property assessments. Lake Champlain Basin Program offers up to US $20,000 for one-year projects that engage landowners in managing properties for clean water, biodiversity, and climate resilience within the Lake Champlain Basin.

Municipalities and other eligible entities improving water quality in New York through green stormwater infrastructure, energy efficiency, or water efficiency projects can access funding through grants from New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation. Awards may cover 50–90% of eligible project costs, up to $3 million, for planning, design, and construction tied to implementation.

State and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural New York can use this program to develop or improve drinking water, sewage, solid waste, and stormwater systems. With a mission to strengthen rural infrastructure, USDA Rural Development provides funding for acquisition, construction, upgrades, and related project costs where commercial credit is unavailable.

Local governments, Indian Nations, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, state agencies, and not-for-profit corporations in New York can receive funding for flood mitigation and resilient watershed construction projects. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation provides New York water resource managers with US $150,000 - US $10,000,000 to implement nature-based solutions that reduce flooding, erosion, and ice jams while supporting healthy riparian habitats.

Local governments and other eligible entities in New York can seek funding to implement inland flooding and waterfront revitalization projects that enhance community resilience and reduce flood risk. Grants from New York State Department of State support water resource management and climate resilience projects, covering up to 90% of eligible design and construction costs, with awards over US $150,000.

New York agricultural producers seeking support for water and natural resource management can receive cost-share assistance for conservation practices, including irrigation improvements and water-quality-related tree planting. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of New York funds projects that reduce financial risk through diversification, soil erosion control, integrated pest management, and transitions to more sustainable or organic farming systems.

New York municipalities and eligible public entities can receive US $1,000,000 - US $10,000,000 for green infrastructure projects that improve water quality and stormwater resilience in New York. New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation provides competitive funding for regional and local nature-based stormwater solutions, with at least 35% of benefits directed to disadvantaged communities and a required local match.

Agricultural producers and forest landowners in New York can apply for USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program to fund conservation practices on working lands. This program provides technical and financial assistance to improve water and air quality, conserve ground and surface water, enhance soil health, and create or improve wildlife habitat.

Eligible organizations in New York can apply for Lake Champlain Basin Program large implementation grants, awarding US $50,001 - US $200,000 for on-the-ground projects that reduce water pollution and improve water quality in the Lake Champlain Basin. Funding supports freshwater conservation, pollution reduction, and related environmental stewardship efforts.

The Clean Water – Grants For Planning program, managed by the Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program in partnership with NEIWPCC, aims to enhance water quality in the Lake Champlain Basin. With approximately $680,000 available, this funding opportunity supports planning and implementation projects that address pollution reduction. Eligible organizations can submit one proposal per grant category, with multiple awards anticipated. This initiative is crucial for advancing sustainable water quality improvements in the region.

The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation offers general grants aimed at promoting arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Currently, they are not accepting applications for 2025 but will reopen in January 2026. Eligible organizations must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) entities serving specific regions, with a focus on environmental, medical, and veterans initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission and provides opportunities for quality arts programming.

New York and Vermont organizations planning on-the-ground projects to reduce water pollution and improve freshwater quality can apply for grants up to US $50,000. Lake Champlain Basin Program supports implementation and planning efforts that advance clean water goals and water resource management within the Lake Champlain Basin, with multiple awards anticipated.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program invites proposals for the Healthy Ecosystems Habitat and Native Species Conservation Projects. This funding opportunity aims to enhance native species habitats, improve water quality, and promote biodiversity in the Lake Champlain Basin. Grants ranging from $50,001 to $175,000 will support projects that implement sustainable practices such as riparian plantings and native species surveys, contributing to the health of ecosystems in partnership with local communities and organizations.

The Aquatic Organism Passage Grant, managed by the Lake Champlain Basin Program, aims to restore aquatic organism passage and enhance stream connectivity in the Lake Champlain Basin. With approximately $2.5 million available, the program invites proposals that support the Healthy Ecosystem goals outlined in the Opportunities for Action plan. Projects can include activities like culvert replacements and dam removals, with a focus on improving habitat and ecosystem functions for aquatic life. Applications are due by either September 8 or October 8, 2025.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program invites proposals for the Healthy Ecosystems Habitat and Native Species Conservation Projects - Small Grant Category. This initiative aims to enhance the ecosystem through projects that preserve and restore native species habitats. Grants of up to $50,000 will be awarded to support wetland, riparian, and aquatic habitat improvements, diversify fish communities, and implement flood-resilient practices. Eligible projects may include native species surveys and critical habitat conservation.

The Hudson River Fund Research Grant, provided by the Hudson River Foundation, aims to support innovative research that explores the complex interactions within the Hudson River ecosystem. This grant focuses on projects that are scientifically significant and relevant to public policy and resource management in the Hudson River watershed. Established in 1981, the Foundation seeks to enhance public access and understanding of the River's ecological systems while promoting sound environmental policies.

The New York Lake Champlain Basin Wetland and Floodplain Restoration Projects aim to enhance the ecological health of the Lake Champlain Basin by restoring critical wetlands and floodplains. With approximately $1,300,000 available in funding, this initiative seeks proposals that will improve water quality and support biodiversity. By collaborating with local agencies and organizations, the program emphasizes the conservation of vital habitats, ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations.

Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund 2026 RFA

About the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund (LISCIF)

The Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund (LISCIF) is a partnership among Restore America’s Estuaries, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Long Island Sound Partnership. The purpose of LISCIF is to provide technical and financial assistance to communities for addressing environmental issues and to improve the quality and accessibility of the Long Island Sound. Technical assistance will be provided through LISCIF and is available to communities/organizations even if one does not submit a proposal for funding.  

This is the third round of LISCIF funding. Up to $1,200,000 in competitive funding will be awarded to support projects in New York and Connecticut. Project proposals must incorporate Actions of the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP).  

For LISCIF, the geographic region refers to the Long Island Sound watershed area within New York and Connecticut.

Funding Priorities

LISCIF’s funding priorities are aligned with the CCMP themes and Actions. For 2026, LISCIF’s main funding themes are:

• Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds  
• Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife  
• Sustainable and Resilient Communities   
• Informed and Engaged Public  

The Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund aims to build capacity for organizations located in communities affected by environmental and human health risks. The Fund seeks to provide technical assistance for communities and support proposals which ultimately improve access to the Long Island Sound, while reducing overall environmental health risks. Eligible projects and activities will be community-driven and address one of the funding priorities below:   

Funding is available for:   

• Projects that result in quantifiable pollutant prevention or reduction.   
• Restoring habitat within the Important Coastal Habitat Types targeted by LIS Partnership.  
• Projects that foster a diverse balance and abundant populations of fish, birds, and wildlife.    
• Public engagement, knowledge, and stewardship.  
• Projects that enhance community resilience and sustainability.   
• Planning and design that set-the-stage for implementation of water quality projects, eligible habitat restoration projects and resilience projects.   
• Community-based science projects.  
• Data management and integration projects.   
• Other similar activities that the applicant proposes, and EPA approves, that are consistent with Section 119 of the Clean Water Act.