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Best Water Grants

Find water grants for clean water access, conservation, infrastructure, and watershed protection projects.

870

Available grants

$350.9M

Total funding

$30K

Median grant

870 grants
$350.9M total
$30K median

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870 Results based on applied filters

Grants for Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Projects

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $5,000,000
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality offers funding through low-interest loans, Principal Forgiveness, and grants for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects. These financial resources support the construction of infrastructure to improve water quality and address emerging contaminants. Eligible applicants include municipalities and public authorities. The program emphasizes sustainability, with additional funding for green initiatives and studies addressing PFAS contamination. This initiative promotes community health and environmental protection through enhanced water management.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

FL Nonpoint Source Management Grant

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Florida
Unspecified amount
The FL Nonpoint Source Management Grant offers funding to local governments and nonstate entities in Florida for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source nutrient pollution in impaired waterbodies. This includes stormwater treatment initiatives and public education programs. Funded through Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, the program's goal is to mitigate pollution from land use activities, with approximately $8 million available annually for eligible projects.
Water Resource Management Waste Management

Biscayne Bay Water Quality Improvement Grant

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Biscayne Bay Water Quality Improvement Grant aims to enhance water quality in Biscayne Bay by funding projects submitted by local governments and nonstate entities. Eligible projects may include wastewater improvements, stormwater management, and other initiatives that contribute to the bay's ecological health. This grant is an opportunity for universities and nonprofit organizations to engage in meaningful environmental efforts.
Water Resource Management Waste Management

Indian River Lagoon Water Quality Improvement Grant

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Brevard County, Florida, Indian River County, Florida +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Indian River Lagoon Water Quality Improvement Grant supports local governments and nonstate entities in enhancing efforts to safeguard the Indian River Lagoon. Eligible projects may include wastewater improvements, stormwater management, and initiatives aimed at boosting water quality, aligning with the Indian River Lagoon Protection Program. This grant provides an opportunity for universities and nonprofit organizations to contribute to environmental sustainability and community health through innovative project proposals.
Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water Quality Improvement Grant

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Florida
Unspecified amount
The Water Quality Improvement Grant, offered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, aims to enhance water quality by funding projects that address wastewater, stormwater, and agricultural nutrient sources. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofits, focusing on projects that improve water bodies not meeting nutrient standards. Priority is given to initiatives demonstrating significant nutrient reduction, project readiness, and cost-effectiveness. This grant supports vital environmental restoration efforts across Florida.
Water Resource Management Waste Management

Organization Collaboration Grant Program

Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB)
State/Local Government
Oregon
Up to US $75,000
The Organization Collaboration Grant Program, offered by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB), aims to foster strategic collaborations that enhance local organizations' sustainability and ecological outcomes. Eligible applicants include groups that support these efforts, especially those with a watershed council, soil and water conservation district, or land trust. Grants can go up to $75,000, enabling organizations to evaluate structures or pursue mergers to improve service delivery and community engagement.
Water Resource Management Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Engagement Grants

Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB)
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
Engagement Grants aim to facilitate projects that foster communication and engagement with landowners and the community regarding restoration, acquisition, or resource assessment initiatives. These projects must demonstrate a clear connection to specific geographic areas and address ecosystem goals, ensuring measurable outcomes. Education projects are excluded, as eligibility focuses on activities directly linked to habitat protection and restoration, striving to enhance awareness and skills in watershed management.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Water Resource Management

Monitoring Grants

Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB)
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Monitoring Grants by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) focus on improving watershed conditions through data collection and analysis. Eligible projects include monitoring trends in watershed health, evaluating restoration efforts, and conducting rapid bio-assessments. Applicants must be legal entities such as local governments or non-profits. This initiative aims to ensure informed decision-making for environmental management and restoration, fostering sustainable practices and habitat improvement.
Water Resource Management Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Clean Water Workforce Capacity Development (CWWCD) Block Grant

Watersheds United Vermont
Private
Vermont
Up to US $35,000
The Clean Water Workforce Capacity Development (CWWCD) Block Grant, administered by Watersheds United Vermont, aims to enhance the capabilities of clean water organizations in Vermont. This funding promotes equitable access for under-resourced entities to engage in essential clean water projects. The grant supports activities that foster community engagement, streamline administrative processes, and cultivate a diverse workforce in clean water project management, ultimately leading to increased effectiveness and impact in local clean water initiatives.
Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Nonprofit Growth & Development

Nonpoint Source Management Grants (Section 319): Watershed-Based Projects

Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy
State/Local Government
Nebraska
Up to US $300,000
The Nonpoint Source Management Grants (Section 319) support watershed-based projects aimed at restoring or protecting water quality. Funded by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, these grants provide financial assistance for implementing the Nonpoint Source Management Plan. Eligible entities include government units, educational institutions, and non-profits. Key details include a grant limit of $300,000, a 40% non-federal match requirement, and a project duration of up to 3 years.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology Environmental Contamination & Pollution +1 more

Nonpoint Source Management Grants (Section 319): Small Project Assistance Grants

Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy
State/Local Government
Nebraska
Up to US $15,000
The Nonpoint Source Management Grants (Section 319) provide vital funding for small projects aimed at combating runoff pollution, a significant contributor to water quality degradation. Administered by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, these grants offer up to $15,000, with a 40% non-federal match required. Eligible applicants include government units, educational institutions, and non-profits, making it an essential opportunity for organizations seeking to improve water quality through innovative local projects.
Environmental Contamination & Pollution Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water +1 more

Area Development Grant Program

Appalachian Regional Commission
State/Local Government
Adair County, Kentucky, Adams County, Ohio +421 more
Unspecified amount
The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.
Economic Services & Development Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Entrepreneurship +3 more

County-wide and Regional Funding Program

California State Water Resources Control Board
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The County-wide and Regional Funding Program by the California State Water Board aims to support counties and eligible partners in addressing drought and contamination issues for disadvantaged communities. Funding is available through the SAFER Program to implement regional programs targeting state small water systems and domestic wells. Eligible recipients include counties and NGOs, with projects focusing on assessments, domestic well testing, and interim solutions like bottled water. The program is vital for enhancing water resilience in underserved areas.
Water Resource Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

The Safe and Affordable Funding for Equity and Resilience Program (SAFER)

California State Water Resources Control Board
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The SAFER program aims to provide safe and affordable drinking water to over one million Californians currently without access. Established by Senate Bill 200 (SB200) in 2019, it allocates $130 million annually to help small water systems achieve compliance with drinking water standards. By offering funding for operational costs and system consolidation, SAFER is essential for ensuring sustainable access to clean water, thus supporting public health and equity in California.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Environmental Justice & Advocacy +1 more

Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) - Planning

California State Water Resources Control Board
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program, managed by the California State Water Resources Control Board, provides essential financial assistance for public water systems. It supports the planning and execution of drinking water infrastructure projects to ensure compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. Eligible costs cover planning documents, engineering specifications, environmental reviews, and more, facilitating access to safe drinking water and promoting the human right to water.
Water Resource Management Climate Change Resilience & Equity Environmental Engineering

Nature Based Solutions: Wet Land Restoration Funding

Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $36,000,000
The Nature Based Solutions: Wetland Restoration funding aims to enhance wetland restoration, conservation, and climate resilience in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. This initiative addresses significant peat soil subsidence, which threatens water projects and agriculture in the region. By re-wetting peat soils, the program can mitigate CO2 emissions and support diverse projects, including tidal wetland restoration, crop conversion, and land acquisition, fostering a sustainable environment and economy.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology +3 more

Effectiveness Monitoring Committee Research Request

California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Effectiveness Monitoring Committee (EMC) is inviting project proposals aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of California's Forest Practice Rules and natural resource protections. This initiative targets key issues such as watershed health, wildlife habitat, and wildfire management. Proposals should address specific research themes and critical monitoring questions identified by the EMC, contributing to enhanced scientific understanding and improved forest resilience in California.
Forestry Natural Resources Fire Ecology +5 more

WY Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Wyoming
Federal Government
Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The Wyoming Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation practices while improving land management. This program provides technical and financial assistance to address natural resource challenges and aims to increase crop resilience, improve grazing conditions, and develop wildlife habitats. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices on their lands. CSP is ideal for working lands and encourages sustainable agricultural practices across Wyoming.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +9 more

WA Conservation Stewardship Program Grant

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Washington
Federal Government
Washington
Unspecified amount
The WA Conservation Stewardship Program Grant, offered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, supports landowners in enhancing their conservation efforts. This program encourages sustainable practices across 70 million acres of agricultural land. Participants can improve grazing, increase crop resilience, and develop wildlife habitats while receiving technical and financial assistance. CSP contracts last five years, providing annual payments for implementing conservation activities, ensuring environmental sustainability and improved agricultural productivity.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +11 more

VT Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Vermont
Federal Government
Vermont
Unspecified amount
The Vermont Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is designed to enhance existing conservation efforts on agricultural lands. It provides financial and technical support to producers aiming to improve soil health, enhance wildlife habitats, and increase resilience against environmental challenges. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices tailored to their specific goals, with opportunities for contract renewal and additional enhancements. This program fosters sustainable agricultural practices while benefiting both the environment and agricultural productivity.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +11 more

TX Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Texas
Federal Government
Texas
US $1,500 - US $4,000
The TX Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is a vital initiative by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service aimed at enhancing conservation practices on agricultural lands. This program helps producers develop customized conservation plans, offering technical and financial assistance to improve land management. Participants enjoy benefits such as increased resilience to weather fluctuations, lower agricultural input costs, and improved wildlife habitats. With contracts lasting five years, CSP encourages sustainable practices while fostering environmental stewardship.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +11 more

SD Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of South Dakota
Federal Government
South Dakota
More than US $4,000
The SD Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is a federal initiative designed to enhance conservation efforts on private agricultural lands. By providing technical and financial assistance, CSP helps producers improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat while maintaining agricultural productivity. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices, ensuring long-term sustainability. With a focus on tailored conservation plans, CSP addresses various resource concerns, promoting resilience against climate impacts and market fluctuations.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +11 more

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Jersey

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Jersey provides essential funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This initiative supports local governments, nonprofits, and tribes that struggle to secure commercial credit. Eligible projects include construction and improvement of water infrastructure, ensuring reliable services for communities with populations of 10,000 or less.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

NACD: Technical Assistance Grants

National Association Of Conservation Districts Inc
Private
American Samoa, Guam +6 more
Approximately US $18,000,000
The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Stewardship Environmental Justice & Advocacy +8 more

Section 604(b) Water Quality Management Planning Grant Program (MA)

Massachusetts Department of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA)
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Section 604(b) Water Quality Management Planning Grant Program in Massachusetts aims to address water quality issues through funding nonpoint source assessment and planning projects. This year's focus includes determining causes of water quality problems, developing climate-resilient designs, and creating nine-element Watershed-Based Plans. Environmental Justice Coordinator positions will also be supported to aid communities in assessments and grant applications, ultimately promoting sustainable water management practices.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Environmental Justice & Advocacy +1 more

AWWA Scholarship Program - Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions Vernon D. Lucy III Scholarship

American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Association/Society
North America
US $5,000
The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions Vernon D. Lucy III Scholarship, offers a $5000 award to undergraduate students pursuing careers in the water sector. Established by the American Water Works Association, this scholarship honors the mentorship of Vernon D. Lucy III and aims to support the next generation of water industry professionals. Eligible candidates must demonstrate interest in water-related fields, underscoring AWWA's commitment to fostering future leaders.
Water Resource Management Academic Scholarship Programs

AWWA Scholarship Program - Raftelis Leadership Scholarship

American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Association/Society
North America
US $5,000
The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.
Water Resource Management Financial Literacy Business Education +7 more

Water Grants Highlights

Water grants provide funding to support clean water access, conservation projects, and infrastructure improvements. The following grants help nonprofits address water scarcity, promote sustainability, and enhance community well-being through innovative water solutions.


Search Instrumentl's Water Grants Database


Explore 375 funding opportunities for water-related initiatives, with $164.8M in resources. Instrumentl helps organizations secure funding with deadline tracking, customized grant searches, and insights to improve water access and conservation efforts.

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

Grant Insights : Water Grants

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

400+ Water Grants grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

200+ Water Grants over $25K in average grant size

100+ Water Grants over $50K in average grant size

44 Water Grants supporting general operating expenses

400+ Water Grants supporting programs / projects

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Water grants?

Most grants are due in the third quarter.

Q1
28.8%
Q2
20.9%
Q3
29.6%
Q4
20.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Water Grants?

Grants are most commonly $65,000.

$250 $250 Min.
$65,000 $65 K Median
$773,827 $773.8 K Average
$18,000,000 $18 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits that help people get clean water, save water, or keep water clean might get these water-supporting grants. Groups that stop pollution, use water wisely or build water systems can also apply.

Water grants typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q3, with 29.6% 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 Q4.

These grants help make sure water stays clean and safe to drink. They also protect rivers, lakes, and other water sources. The people giving the money care about nature, keeping people healthy, and fixing water problems caused by climate change.

Funding for water grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $18,000,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $65,000, while the average grant awarded is $773,827. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Water grants are majorly funded by the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

State and local governments also provide funding through health departments and community service grants. Private foundations like Water.org focus on saving and providing drinkable water. Additionally, corporate initiatives, such as Coca-Cola and Nestlé, offer grants for projects that help the environment.

To improve grant success, nonprofits should:

  • Align with funder priorities – Tailor proposals to highlight the urgency of water issues.
  • Use measurable outcomes – Provide data-driven results to demonstrate past impact and expected future success.
  • Build strategic partnerships – Partner with environmental agencies as well as local communities.
  • Scalability – Providing scalable and long lasting solutions will make the application stronger.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

Instrumentl streamlines the search for water grants by identifying relevant funding opportunities. You can track deadlines, and organize applications as well. It also provides insights into funder priorities to help nonprofits refine their grant-seeking strategies. Optimize your grant-seeking process with these research strategies.

Filter Water Grants

Browse Water Grants by Location

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Local Grants by City

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