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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

GA Regional Water Plan Seed Grant Funds

Georgia Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Georgia (US state)
Up to US $150,000
The GA Regional Water Plan Seed Grant Funds, administered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, support local governments in implementing projects that enhance water quality and quantity in Georgia. With grants up to $75,000 available, the initiative encourages eligible recipients to engage in essential water management practices as outlined in Regional Water Plans. Applicants must attend a pre-application meeting to qualify, and projects can span a duration of thirty months.
Water Resource Management

Texas Nonpoint Source Management Grant Program

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
State/Local Government
Texas
US $100,000 - US $400,000
The Texas Nonpoint Source Management Grant Program aims to combat nonpoint source pollution as mandated by the Clean Water Act. This program addresses pollution from various diffuse sources, including agricultural runoff and urban runoff. Administered by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, it undertakes comprehensive strategies to protect water quality and is refreshed every five years to adapt to new challenges.
Water Resource Management

LCRA Community Grants

Lower Colorado River Authority
State/Local Government
Aransas County, Texas, Austin County, Texas +71 more
Up to US $100,000
The LCRA Community Grants program supports local communities with financial assistance of up to $50,000 for capital improvement projects aimed at enhancing community assets. Established in 1995, it prioritizes projects that benefit the broader community, particularly in economically challenged areas. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments located within LCRA's service area. Noteworthy projects may qualify for additional funding, emphasizing wildfire response and energy conservation.
Community Development & Revitalization Firefighting & Fire Prevention Water Resource Management +2 more

Joseph Robert Foundation Grant

Joseph Robert Foundation
Private
Delaware, District of Columbia +4 more
Up to US $10,000
The Joseph Robert Foundation Grant provides essential funding for non-profit organizations focused on the arts, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Based in Pennsylvania, the foundation prioritizes smaller local organizations in the mid-Atlantic region, offering grants typically under $10,000. It encourages innovative projects and supports first-time grant seekers, prioritizing those with limited resources. Organizations can apply for general operating support or specific project funding to further their missions and impact their communities.
Sustainability Environmental Education Animal Welfare - General +7 more

AZ: Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Federal Government
Arizona
Unspecified amount
The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a flagship initiative by NRCS aimed at assisting farmers and ranchers in implementing conservation practices on their lands. This program provides both technical and financial support to address critical natural resource concerns, such as soil health, water quality, and habitat improvement. Eligible participants include agricultural producers and forest landowners, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices while enhancing environmental quality. EQIP emphasizes collaboration between NRCS and producers to develop tailored conservation plans.
Environmental Conservation Agriculture Natural Resources +11 more

Public Education, Participation, and Outreach Grant Program: Basin Coordinator

Colorado Department of Natural Resources (CO DNR)
State/Local Government
Colorado
Up to US $25,000
The Public Education, Participation, and Outreach Grant Program, initiated by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, supports education and outreach initiatives for water conservation. This grant enables coordinators to work closely with basin roundtables, facilitating community engagement on water issues. With funding up to $25,000, the program aims to enhance public awareness and education about water resources, ensuring sustainable management for future generations. Eligible entities include governments and individuals, fostering collaboration across Colorado's nine river basins.
Water Resource Management Environmental Education

Public Education, Participation, and Outreach Grant Program: Statewide Initiatives

Colorado Department of Natural Resources (CO DNR)
State/Local Government
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Public Education, Participation, and Outreach Grant Program, established by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB), is designed to fund statewide education and outreach initiatives. It supports financial backing for coordinators who facilitate basin-specific outreach. The program aims to advance education campaigns, awareness surveys, and initiatives that align with CWCB priorities, promoting water conservation and management across Colorado's diverse water basins.
Water Resource Management Environmental Education

Water Conservation and Protection Grant Program (Previously Water Conservation and Protection Mini-grant Program)

Tampa Bay Water
State/Local Government
Hillsborough County, Florida, Pasco County, Florida +1 more
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The Water Conservation and Protection Mini-grant Program, offered by Tampa Bay Water, provides $50,000 in funding for local projects aimed at conserving water and protecting drinking water sources in the Tampa Bay area. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 support community initiatives such as public awareness campaigns, river cleanups, and educational workshops. This program encourages community involvement in safeguarding our vital water resources for future generations.
Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

IA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Iowa
Federal Government
Iowa
Unspecified amount
The IA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, supports farmers in enhancing their conservation efforts. With no acreage requirement, this program covers a wide range of agricultural and forest lands, helping participants improve crop yields, manage grazing, and develop wildlife habitats. CSP promotes sustainable practices while providing financial assistance for implementing conservation measures, ultimately fostering healthier ecosystems and resilient agricultural operations.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Stewardship Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology +9 more

VT Agricultural Management Assistance

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Vermont
Federal Government
Vermont
Up to US $50,000
The Vermont Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program offers vital support to agricultural producers, helping them manage financial risks through various practices such as diversification and resource conservation. Administered by NRCS, AMA provides up to 75% cost assistance for conservation practices, with total payments capped at $50,000 per participant annually. Eligibility requires producers to be involved in agricultural production and comply with specific land requirements, ensuring sustainable farming practices across Vermont.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Water Resource Management +3 more

Chi-Cal Rivers Fund Grant

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +8 more
US $100,000 - US $400,000
The Chi-Cal Rivers Fund Grant, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, aims to enhance the waterways of the Chicago and Calumet region. This initiative focuses on reducing stormwater runoff through nature-based infrastructure, improving fish and wildlife habitats, and promoting community engagement. The program supports projects under three main categories: habitat quality improvement, stormwater solution expansion, and activation of restored natural areas, encouraging strategic investments for ecological resilience.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Water Resource Management Greening & Beautification +5 more

Pumpout Station Grants for Marinas

Maryland Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Maryland
Up to US $20,000
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers grants of up to $15,000 for marinas to install marine sewage pumpout facilities, enhancing water quality by providing boaters with proper waste disposal options. This program, funded by the Federal Clean Vessel Act and the Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund, also supports reimbursement for pumpout operations and maintenance, ensuring marinas can effectively manage sewage disposal and contribute to cleaner waterways.
Recreational Water Use & Boating Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

KS Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Kansas
Federal Government
Kansas
US $1,500 - US $4,000
The Kansas Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers farmers to enhance their conservation efforts while improving agricultural operations. By offering technical and financial assistance, CSP helps participants adopt practices that boost crop resilience, improve wildlife habitat, and promote sustainable land management. With annual payments and opportunities for contract renewals, this program fosters a commitment to conservation on working lands, making it the largest initiative of its kind in the U.S. Join thousands of successful producers in enhancing natural resources today.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +7 more

WV Agricultural Management Assistance

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of West Virginia
Federal Government
West Virginia
Up to US $50,000
The WV Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program offers vital support to agricultural producers in West Virginia by providing technical and financial assistance aimed at enhancing water management, quality, and erosion control. With funding up to 75% for conservation practices and a maximum of $50,000 per participant annually, AMA encourages sustainable farming practices and aids historically underserved producers. Applications are accepted year-round, ensuring continuous support for farmers looking to improve their operations.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Land / Habitat Conservation +3 more

High Stakes Foundation Grant

High Stakes Foundation
Private
Montana
Unspecified amount
The High Stakes Foundation Grant supports transformative initiatives in Montana, focusing on civic engagement, climate change solutions, economic development, and social justice. By providing general operating support to 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation aims to empower leaders and strengthen local communities. With an emphasis on sustainability and preserving public lands, this grant cultivates a vibrant, interconnected society committed to the health and prosperity of Montana. Organizations interested in applying must submit a letter of inquiry before the full proposal.
Sustainability Social Justice / Human Rights Food Access & Hunger +6 more

NH Clean Water State Revolving Fund

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Unspecified amount
The NH Clean Water State Revolving Fund offers low-cost financial assistance for projects aimed at enhancing public health and water quality. It supports local communities with funding for wastewater infrastructure and pollution control initiatives. Benefits include below-market loan rates, potential loan forgiveness, and project support throughout planning and construction phases. Annual loan pre-applications are encouraged for various water management projects, ensuring a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship in New Hampshire.
Waste Management Water Resource Management Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Anchor QEA Scholarship

Anchor QEA
Corporate
United States
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Hydrology Fisheries +4 more

Central America Grant Program

The Rockefeller Brothers Fund
Private
El Salvador, Guatemala +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Central America Grant Program by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund aims to foster democratic governance, social justice, and sustainable development in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. This initiative supports organizations addressing systemic issues, enhancing civic participation and transparency, and promoting reconciliation. Focused on young democracies, the program emphasizes collaboration with the U.S. to tackle the region's challenges, such as corruption and climate change, while leveraging the cultural diversity of Central America to build a prosperous future.
Civic Affairs Internet / Media Freedom Governance & Democracy +4 more

WY Agricultural Management Assistance

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Wyoming
Federal Government
Wyoming
Up to US $50,000
The WY Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program, administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service in Wyoming, provides financial support to agricultural producers managing risks through conservation practices. Participants can receive up to 75% of installation costs for practices such as irrigation improvements and soil erosion control, with total payments capped at $50,000 per year. This program also emphasizes support for historically underserved producers, ensuring access to essential financial resources.
Livestock & Ranching Water Resource Management Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology +3 more

Bisbee Foundation Berry Family Environmental Fund

Arizona Community Foundation
Private
Cochise County, Arizona
Unspecified amount
The Bisbee Foundation Berry Family Environmental Fund, an initiative of the Arizona Community Foundation, aims to support projects enhancing the natural environment in Bisbee. This grant encourages community involvement through initiatives like landscape enhancement, water harvesting, and conservation efforts. The fund, inspired by the Berry siblings' respect for nature, seeks to preserve Bisbee's unique environmental heritage while fostering community engagement in ecological projects.
Horticulture & Gardening Greening & Beautification Water Resource Management +1 more

Wisconsin Public Service Foundation Grant

Wisconsin Public Service Foundation
Corporate
Brown County, Wisconsin, Calumet County, Wisconsin +22 more
Unspecified amount
The Wisconsin Public Service Foundation Grant supports local communities through charitable contributions, focusing on areas such as arts, education, and human services. Funded by shareholders, not utility customers, the foundation awards nearly $1.4 million annually to nonprofit organizations that enhance community quality of life. Eligible projects must align with specific funding areas and be located within the service area. The foundation encourages innovative projects that foster community engagement and development.
Wildlife Management Community Development & Revitalization Environmental Conservation +24 more

North Dakota NPS Section 319 grant

North Dakota Environmental Quality
State/Local Government
North Dakota
Unspecified amount
The North Dakota NPS Section 319 grant aims to combat nonpoint source pollution through voluntary, incentive-based initiatives. By coordinating with local partners, the program assesses priority watersheds, implements restoration plans, and raises public awareness about water quality issues. This funding supports diverse projects, including assessments and educational outreach, to ensure the protection of North Dakota's water resources and promote best management practices among agricultural landowners.
Environmental Contamination & Pollution Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Agricultural Management Assistance in Maine

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Maine
Federal Government
Maine
Up to US $50,000
The ME Agricultural Management Assistance program, administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, supports agricultural producers in managing financial risks through diversified practices and conservation efforts. Participants can receive up to 75% funding for conservation practices, with a maximum of $50,000 annually. Eligibility requires active engagement in agriculture and control of the land. This initiative particularly benefits historically underserved producers by offering higher cost-share options.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Water Resource Management +3 more

NH Agricultural Management Assistance Grant

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of New Hampshire
Federal Government
New Hampshire
Up to US $50,000
The NH Agricultural Management Assistance Grant provides essential financial support to agricultural producers in New Hampshire, enabling them to mitigate financial risks through diversification and conservation practices. The program assists with up to 75% of the costs for installing conservation practices, with a maximum of $50,000 in payments per participant per fiscal year. Eligible participants must be engaged in agricultural production and comply with specific regulations regarding land use and income.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Water Resource Management +3 more

Pentair Foundation Grants

Pentair Foundation
Corporate
Afghanistan, Albania +150 more
Unspecified amount
The Pentair Foundation, a corporate philanthropy initiative, focuses on creating sustainable communities through water solutions and STEM education. With over $80 million in contributions since 1998, the foundation emphasizes ecological resilience, water quality improvement, and youth engagement in science and technology. They prioritize grantmaking in specific U.S. states and international regions, fostering vibrant communities and encouraging employee volunteerism. Initiatives are invitation-only, ensuring a targeted approach to impactful philanthropy.
Environmental Education Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Aquaculture +4 more

FL Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Florida
Federal Government
Florida
More than US $4,000
The FL Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) by the USDA NRCS supports agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation practices. This program offers tailored plans to improve land management, increase crop resilience, and develop wildlife habitats. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices and can opt for bundles that offer higher payment rates. CSP is vital for enhancing natural resources while supporting sustainable agricultural operations across Florida.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +6 more

GA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Georgia
Federal Government
Georgia (US state)
Up to US $4,000
The GA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) enhances conservation efforts for agricultural producers by offering technical and financial assistance. It focuses on improving land management practices to increase crop resilience, wildlife habitats, and overall sustainability. With annual payments and opportunities for contract renewal, CSP encourages innovative methods to meet conservation goals. Eligibility includes compliance with USDA regulations and a commitment to conservation practices, making it a vital resource for landowners seeking to enhance environmental stewardship.
Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops Forestry +6 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.