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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

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in Ohio

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Ohio provides essential funding for rural communities to develop clean drinking water systems and effective waste disposal solutions. This program supports various projects including the construction and improvement of water sourcing, sewer systems, and solid waste management. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring that underserved areas receive the necessary resources for sustainable development.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in North Dakota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Dakota
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in North Dakota provides essential funding for the development of reliable drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water management in eligible rural areas. This program supports entities like state and local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. It covers acquisition, construction, and improvement costs, along with related expenses such as legal fees and equipment purchases, fostering healthier communities.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in North Carolina

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in North Carolina offers vital funding to support clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and stormwater drainage in rural areas. Eligible applicants include governmental entities, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes who struggle to access affordable credit. This program aims to enhance public health and environmental quality through improved infrastructure, ensuring that rural communities receive essential services.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Proposition 1 - Stream Flow Enhancement Program

California Wildlife Conservation Board
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Proposition 1 Stream Flow Enhancement Program in California aims to improve stream flows for the benefit of fish and wildlife. It provides $200 million in funding for projects that align with the California Water Action Plan, focusing on enhancing water flow in streams supporting anadromous fish and at-risk species. The program facilitates water transactions, conservation projects, and habitat restoration efforts to ensure sustainable water resource management and resilience against climate change.
Water Resource Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New York

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New York
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New York provides crucial funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This program supports state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes in their efforts to enhance public health and environmental quality. Eligible applicants can use the funds for construction, improvement, and related activities to ensure reliable service delivery.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Mexico

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Mexico
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Mexico provides crucial funding for rural areas to establish clean drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes. The program aims to enhance public health and environmental quality while supporting communities in achieving reliable water services. This initiative is vital for households and businesses in underserved regions.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

RI Regional Conservation Partnership Grant Program

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Rhode Island
State/Local Government
Rhode Island
Up to US $10,000,000
The RI Regional Conservation Partnership Grant Program enhances collaboration between NRCS and various partners to provide conservation support to producers and landowners. This initiative integrates four previous conservation programs and prioritizes energy efficiency, fish and wildlife habitat, plant health, soil health, and water quality and quantity. Eligible participants include agricultural producers and landowners who can access assistance through partnership agreements or in designated conservation areas.
Water Resource Management Energy Efficiency & Conservation

NJ Soil and Water Conservation Grants

State of New Jersey Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The NJ Soil and Water Conservation Grants, offered by the State Agriculture Development Committee, support up to 50% funding for soil and water conservation projects on preserved farms. Eligible projects include erosion control, water management, and sediment retention systems. Farmers must be enrolled in a farmland preservation program and complete projects within three years of funding approval. Priority is given to permanently preserved farms, ensuring that vital agricultural resources are maintained and enhanced for future generations.
Soil Science Water Resource Management Farms & Farming

Creating New Economies Fund (CNEF) Grant

Legacy Philanthropy Works
Private
North Carolina
US $8,000 - US $12,000
The Creating New Economies Fund (CNEF) Grant offers support for innovative projects that enhance community resources in rural areas. Funded by The Conservation Fund, the program has awarded over $6.8 million since 2001, fostering eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and more. Grants, averaging between $8,000 and $12,000, focus on engaging local communities, particularly marginalized groups, and addressing root causes of challenges like poverty and environmental issues. Applicants must consult with Resourceful Communities before applying.
Economic Services & Development Environmental Education Water Resource Management +16 more

Community Collaborative Research Grants

North Carolina Sea Grant
State/Local Government
North Carolina
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Community Collaborative Research Grant Program (CCRG), supported by North Carolina Sea Grant and the William R. Kenan Jr. Institute, aims to address coastal issues through collaborative research. Proposals should engage local knowledge experts alongside scientific leaders, focusing on themes like healthy ecosystems and sustainable fisheries. Projects that benefit rural and underserved communities are prioritized. Awards range from $5,000 to $25,000, with an emphasis on developing tools for resource management and enhancing community engagement.
Water Resource Management Hydrology Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Community Sustaining Fund Grant

Community Sustaining Fund (CSF) of Thurston County
Association/Society
Thurston County, Washington
Up to US $1,500
The Community Sustaining Fund Grant supports innovative projects that strengthen communities and the environment in Thurston County. With over 36 years of experience, the fund has awarded more than $125,000 to over 200 local organizations and individuals. CSF prioritizes grants for grassroots initiatives that promote social justice, community building, and environmental sustainability. This program embodies a commitment to diversity, equity, and community-driven solutions, fostering a vibrant and resilient local ecosystem.
Homelessness Services Social Justice / Human Rights Animal Welfare - General +26 more

OR Water Project Grants

Oregon Water Resources Department
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) offers Water Project Grants to support local governments, tribes, and individuals in developing water projects with economic, environmental, and social benefits. Eligible projects must include a 25% cost match and can focus on conservation, storage, and water distribution. OWRD anticipates approximately $2 million available for the first 2026 funding cycle, with public comments on funding recommendations accepted until December 2024.
Water Resource Management

State-Level Systemic Change Grant

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation
Private
North Carolina
US $30,000 - US $100,000
The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation invites eligible organizations to apply for the State-Level Systemic Change Grant. This grant supports initiatives aimed at creating lasting, systemic improvements across North Carolina. Emphasizing equity and inclusion, the Foundation seeks to address barriers faced by historically marginalized communities, ensuring access to quality education, a healthy environment, and economic opportunities. This grant aligns with the Foundation's mission to foster a thriving, equitable society for all North Carolinians.
Education System Policy & Reform Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +14 more

Georgia Power Grant

Georgia Power Foundation Inc
Corporate
Georgia (US state)
Up to US $25,000
The Georgia Power Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations, providing funding to empower local communities in Georgia. Grant requests of up to $25,000 are reviewed on an ongoing basis, while larger requests require board approval. The foundation prioritizes Georgia-based initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents. Notably, grants are not available for individuals, political campaigns, or organizations that discriminate based on race, gender, or other factors. This commitment reflects over 130 years of community support.
Education System Policy & Reform Teacher Development & Training Education +11 more

Environmental Education Grants

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $65,000
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection offers Environmental Education Grants to enhance environmental literacy among youth and adults. Funding supports diverse projects, including hands-on programs for students and community workshops. Priorities focus on climate change, water quality, and environmental justice, with mini grants up to $5,000 and general grants ranging from $5,001 to $65,000. Projects must engage participants from multiple counties and include members from Environmental Justice communities, fostering sustainable resource management.
Environmental Education Water Resource Management Climate Change Resilience & Equity +3 more

OEPA: Ohio Environmental Science and Engineering Scholarships

Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $5,000
The Ohio Environmental Science and Engineering Scholarships provide up to $5,000 for undergraduate students in their junior or senior year at Ohio colleges, focusing on environmental science or engineering. This nonrenewable scholarship supports tuition, fees, and educational materials, excluding housing. Selection criteria include academic performance, relevant experiences, and community service. Funded by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, this initiative aims to encourage students committed to environmental careers.
Environmental Education Environmental Engineering Geography +13 more

MI Source Water Protection Grants

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
State/Local Government
Michigan
Unspecified amount
The MI Source Water Protection Grants, administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), offer matching funds to public water supply systems. These funds aim to develop and implement source water protection programs that prevent contamination of drinking water sources. Eligible applicants include community and non-profit water systems that demonstrate financial commitment and establish local protection teams. Approximately half a million dollars in funding is available annually to support these crucial initiatives.
Water Resource Management

PA Agricultural Management Assistance

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Pennsylvania
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $50,000
The PA Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) Program supports agricultural producers in managing financial risks through diversification, marketing, and conservation practices. Administered by NRCS, the program assists in constructing water management structures, planting windbreaks, and implementing conservation practices. Eligible applicants must demonstrate an interest in agriculture and comply with income limitations, ensuring that conservation practices meet NRCS standards. Priority is given to those with a current conservation plan and the ability to complete work within 1-3 years.
Farms & Farming Livestock & Ranching Land / Habitat Conservation +4 more

MT Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Montana
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The MT Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides crucial support for farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in Montana, promoting conservation practices on working lands. Through financial assistance and tailored guidance, NRCS empowers agricultural producers to enhance soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats. This program addresses priority natural resource concerns while fostering sustainable agricultural operations. Year-round applications are accepted, making it accessible for eligible landowners looking to implement effective conservation strategies.
Environmental Conservation Agriculture Forestry +13 more

RRGL Emergency Grant (MT)

Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation
State/Local Government
Montana
US $10,000 - US $30,000
The RRGL Emergency Grant provides crucial funding for urgent projects in Montana that threaten the management of renewable resources. With a budget of $300,000, grants up to $30,000 are available for projects that cannot wait for legislative approval. Eligible entities include state and local governments, while funds can cover various water-related emergencies. This program supports conservation efforts and ensures the sustainable use of water resources, promoting the economic and social well-being of Montana's citizens.
Water Resource Management

Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust Grant

Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust
Private
Maine
Up to US $20,000
The Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust, established in 1988, focuses on enhancing community connections through arts, culture, and environmental initiatives in Maine. The Trust supports projects that foster creative expression, promote historic preservation, and encourage environmental stewardship. Grant applicants can seek up to $20,000 for operating support or specific projects that align with these priorities. The Foundation emphasizes equitable access and community representation in its funding decisions.
Historic Preservation Environmental Education Environmental Stewardship +6 more

VA Citizen Water Monitoring Grants

Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ)
State/Local Government
Virginia
Up to US $11,000
The Virginia Citizen Water Monitoring Grants support individuals and groups in monitoring water quality across Virginia. These grants fund essential activities like purchasing monitoring equipment and training volunteers. The program aims to generate valuable data for water quality assessment and foster community education on environmental stewardship. With options ranging from mini-grants to larger coordination grants, applicants can secure funding to enhance local water monitoring efforts and address pollution sources effectively.
Water Resource Management Citizen Science

Dow in the Delaware Valley Grant

Dow Company Foundation
Corporate
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $10,000
The Dow in the Delaware Valley Grant focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation to address local challenges while promoting sustainability. With over a century of commitment to the region, Dow aims to empower communities through partnerships that enhance disaster resilience, support STEM education, and drive sustainability initiatives. By aligning investments with the needs of the community, Dow is committed to creating equitable opportunities for all, ensuring a brighter future for the Delaware Valley.
Sustainability STEM / STEAM Education Waste Management +4 more

Sponsorship Grant Program

Chesapeake Bay Trust
Private
Chesapeake City, Virginia, Maryland
Up to US $500
The Sponsorship Grant Program by the Chesapeake Bay Trust aims to enhance public awareness of environmental issues related to the Chesapeake Bay and Maryland watersheds. It supports events like conferences and festivals, fostering community engagement. Grants typically award up to $500 for programmatic and marketing support. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, encouraging diverse organizations to apply, especially those traditionally underrepresented in environmental initiatives.
Natural Resources Water Resource Management Outdoor Recreation

Prince George’s County Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program

Chesapeake Bay Trust
Private
Prince George's County, Maryland
US $500 - US $300,000

Prince George’s Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program

The Prince George’s County Government and the Chesapeake Bay Trust announce the ninth year of partnership for the Prince George’s County Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program. This grant program encourages on-the-ground restoration activities that improve communities, improve water quality, support the County’s Climate Action Plan, and engage Prince George’s County residents in the restoration and protection of the local rivers and streams of Prince George’s County.

Program Goals

This program seeks projects that improve aesthetics of communities and treat the stormwater runoff that comes from various types of properties, thus reducing the negative impact of this runoff on the County’s local streams, rivers, and other natural resources in areas where community residents live and recreate. Projects must accomplish on-the ground restoration to result in improvements in water quality and watershed health (e.g., reducing pollutants carried by stormwater, reducing carbon emissions, increasing tree canopy, greening areas for beautification and increased community use/enjoyment, and better habitat for wildlife).

As part of an effort to more fully engage underrepresented groups in its grant-making, the Trust strongly encourages projects that increase awareness and participation of multicultural communities to improve watershed health and local ecological ownership. The strongest proposals will show committed collaborators that provide funding, technicalassistance, and/or other in-kind services to support the successful implementation of the project. 

Applicants can request funds from the following project tracks.

  • Track 1: Water Quality Implementation: ($50,000 to $200,000)
  • Track 2: Tree Canopy: Outreach, Education, Maintenance, and Preservation ($50,000 to
  • $300,000)
  • Track 3: Community Awareness and Engagement ($10,000 to $60,000)
  • Track 4: Litter Reduction and Beautification ($10,000 to $50,000)
  • Track 5: Additional Project Support Fund ($500 to $5,000)

Water Resource Management Environmental Stewardship Environmental Education +2 more

Delaware Nonpoint Source Section 319 Grant Program

Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC)
State/Local Government
Delaware
Unspecified amount
The Delaware Nonpoint Source Section 319 Grant Program, administered by the DNREC, provides funding for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution in Delaware. This program supports initiatives that implement best management practices to combat pollution from diffuse sources like agriculture and construction. By addressing these issues, the grant aims to protect both surface and ground waters, ensuring a healthier environment for the community.
Water Resource Management

Prince George’s County Rain Check Rebate Grant

Chesapeake Bay Trust
Private
Prince George's County, Maryland
Up to US $20,000
The Prince George’s County Rain Check Rebate Grant offers property owners financial incentives for implementing approved stormwater management practices to enhance local waterways. Eligible participants include homeowners, businesses, and nonprofits, with rebates available for various practices such as rain barrels and green roofs. The program is currently open, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Maximum lifetime rebates are $6,000 for residential and $20,000 for commercial properties, encouraging community engagement in sustainable practices.
Water Resource Management Environmental Stewardship

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.