Upcoming Webinar
How Funders Feel About AI, and What Keeps Them Saying Yes.
Wed, Oct 14 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

870 Results based on applied filters

Erb Foundation: Great Lakes

Fred A And Barbara M Erb Family Foundation
Private
Adams County, Indiana, Adams County, Wisconsin +126 more
More than US $10,000
The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and a vibrant Southeast Michigan community. Since its inception, it has invested over $180 million in environmental, cultural, and educational initiatives. As it transitions to spend down its assets by 2034, the Foundation aims to make bold, impactful investments that address urgent community needs and promote sustainable development.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management +3 more

HEP Action Agenda: NY/NJ Community Engagement Sessions

Hudson River Foundation
Private
New Jersey, New York
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The HEP Action Agenda aims to engage communities in the NY/NJ Harbor & Estuary Program through in-person sessions this spring and summer. These sessions will gather feedback on community visions for the estuary, addressing challenges and opportunities. Small grants of $2,000-$4,000 will support NGOs in hosting these events, prioritizing collaboration and engagement with overburdened communities. This initiative seeks to develop a new Action Agenda that reflects the needs and priorities of stakeholders for the next decade.
Water Resource Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution Freshwater Conservation +5 more

California Watershed Protection Fund Grant

Rose Foundation For Communities And The Environment
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +18 more
Up to US $40,000
The California Watershed Protection Fund Grant supports projects aimed at enhancing water quality and protecting watersheds throughout California. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $40,000, eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations and governmental entities. Priority is given to initiatives that engage impacted communities and uphold principles of equity and environmental justice. The fund emphasizes hands-on activities that yield tangible benefits for surface water quality, fostering community-based stewardship in response to fluctuating watershed needs.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management Marine / Ocean Conservation +4 more

California Environmental Grassroots Fund Grant

Rose Foundation For Communities And The Environment
Private
California
Up to US $7,500
The California Environmental Grassroots Fund Grant empowers small, local organizations in California to advance climate resilience and environmental justice. Prioritizing historically marginalized communities, this grant supports initiatives addressing issues like pollution, sustainable agriculture, and urban sprawl. With a focus on community engagement and strategic vision, grantees work to create sustainable solutions that benefit both local ecosystems and impacted populations, fostering an inclusive environmental movement for a healthier future.
Sustainability Urban Planning Agriculture +8 more

Sapelo Foundation Grants: Environmental Justice & Protection

Sapelo Foundation Inc
Private
Georgia (US state)
Unspecified amount
The Sapelo Foundation Grants focus on advancing environmental justice and protection in Georgia, aiming to empower marginalized communities. The foundation seeks partnerships that foster civic engagement, support sustainable practices, and advocate for effective environmental policies. With a commitment to statewide efforts, especially outside metro Atlanta, it emphasizes the importance of healthy environments for all Georgians. Two primary funding areas include water and climate/energy initiatives, with grants typically awarded biennially.
Environmental Justice & Advocacy Energy Freshwater Conservation +6 more

NJ Water Bank Technical Assistance Planning and Design Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
New Jersey
US $2,000,000
The NJ Water Bank Technical Assistance Planning and Design Grant provides crucial funding for disadvantaged communities to cover planning and design costs for clean water and drinking water infrastructure projects. This initiative supports various environmental infrastructure projects, including wastewater treatment and stormwater management facilities. Eligible applicants must meet the affordability criteria set forth by the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and have a pending project application. This grant aims to enhance water quality and accessibility.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management +1 more

James River Water Quality Improvement Grant Program

Virginia Environmental Endowment
Private
Isle of Wight County, Virginia, James City County, Virginia +3 more
More than US $100,000
The James River Water Quality Improvement Grant Program, managed by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, aims to enhance water quality through targeted investments. The program focuses on riparian buffer installations, agricultural pollution reduction, living shoreline construction, and stream restoration. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments, with funding prioritized for implementation costs. Proposals must align with established priorities to demonstrate effectiveness in improving the James River's water quality.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant

Great Lakes Protection Fund
Corporate
Adams County, Indiana, Adams County, Wisconsin +127 more
Unspecified amount
The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Limnology Freshwater Conservation +2 more

MA Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program (DWSP) (2024-12-02)

Massachusetts Department of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA)
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Up to US $350,000
The MA Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program provides essential funding to public water systems and municipal water departments for acquiring land to protect current and future public drinking water supplies and support groundwater recharge. This reimbursement program offers a maximum award of $350,000 with a reimbursement rate of 60%. It aims to enhance water supply safety and sustainability across Massachusetts.
Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Freshwater Conservation

Small Projects and Community Events (SPACE) Grants

The East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (EMSWCD)
State/Local Government
Multnomah County, Oregon
Up to US $2,500
The Small Projects and Community Events (SPACE) Grants support local groups in funding short-term, community-led initiatives that protect natural resources and promote conservation education. These grants aim to be accessible and prioritize projects benefiting Black and Indigenous communities, communities of color, and low-income groups. Eligible projects include native plantings, community gardens, and conservation workshops. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and should be submitted at least 45 days prior to the event.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Soil Science Freshwater Conservation +6 more

EMSWCD: Partners in Conservation Grant

The East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (EMSWCD)
State/Local Government
Multnomah County, Oregon
US $10,000 - US $70,000
The EMSWCD's Partners in Conservation Grant supports community-led projects aimed at enhancing soil health, improving water quality, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative also focuses on education programs related to outdoor and gardening activities, as well as restoration of fish and wildlife habitats. The grant prioritizes communities facing environmental health disparities, ensuring equitable access to conservation benefits.
Environmental Education Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Soil Science +6 more

Water Project Fund - New Mexico Unit Fund Pilot Cycle II

New Mexico Financing Authority
State/Local Government
Catron County, New Mexico, Grant County, New Mexico +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Water Project Fund in New Mexico is inviting applications for the planning and design of water utilization projects aimed at addressing supply demands in the southwestern region. This initiative, supported by the New Mexico Finance Authority, will focus on promoting water conservation, developing sustainable water delivery systems, and enhancing watershed health. Applications for construction funding are anticipated to be available soon, with the Interstate Stream Commission overseeing award determinations.
Water Resource Management Freshwater Conservation Environmental Engineering +1 more

DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants

State of Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants program invites proposals for FY25 to combat nonpoint source water pollution. Funded by the EPA, these grants support projects aimed at improving water quality through community engagement and environmental justice initiatives. A 40% match from non-federal sources is required. Priority is given to projects benefiting environmental justice communities in Connecticut, addressing critical environmental issues and fostering equity.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management Environmental Justice & Advocacy

Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grants

Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $40,000
The Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grants, provided by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection, aim to enhance soil and water quality in Wisconsin. By funding innovative, producer-led conservation practices, the program encourages farmer participation and has significantly increased funding and project numbers since its inception. With 41 projects funded, this initiative represents a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and effective nonpoint source pollution management.
Environmental Contamination & Pollution Water Resource Management Farms & Farming +1 more

Micheal Lefor Grant

Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists
Association/Society
Connecticut
US $1,500
The Micheal Lefor Grant, sponsored by the Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists, supports research by undergraduate or graduate students from accredited Connecticut colleges. It focuses on wetland and aquatic ecology, invasive species, and related topics. This grant aims to assist in research costs, including materials, travel, and publication expenses, while encouraging applicants to seek additional funding sources. Notably, applicants do not need to be CAWS members to qualify.
Ecology Limnology Freshwater Conservation +4 more

Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs: Statewide Waterway Access Grant (SWAG)

Pennsylvania Environmental Council
Private
Pennsylvania
Up to US $30,000
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs offer the Statewide Waterway Access Grant (SWAG) to support projects enhancing public access to waterways. Grants of up to $30,000 are available, with a required 1:1 match. This initiative prioritizes non-profit organizations, municipalities, and educational institutions focused on improving recreational access and advancing the mission of fostering stewardship of Pennsylvania's waterways. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until November 1, 2025.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management Recreational Water Use & Boating

Conservation Partners Grant Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Arizona, Arkansas +26 more
US $250,000 - US $750,000
The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Limnology Freshwater Conservation +6 more

Community Conservation Program

Virginia Environmental Endowment
Private
Virginia
More than US $50,000
The Community Conservation Program, funded by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, supports conservation initiatives in specific Virginia counties and cities. Focused on water quality protection, land conservation, and environmental literacy, the program encourages proposals that demonstrate measurable results, with funding starting at $50,000. Organizations are advised to seek informal reviews of their proposals before submission. VEE favors projects that leverage matching funds, thereby enhancing community engagement and environmental sustainability.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Education Freshwater Conservation +3 more

Long Island Sound Futures Fund Grant Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Addison County, Vermont, Bennington County, Vermont +25 more
US $50,000 - US $2,000,000
The Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF) is offering approximately $12 million in grants to enhance the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. Managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. EPA and the Long Island Sound Study (LISS), this initiative seeks innovative proposals to support environmental restoration efforts, leveraging major funding from various agencies and foundations.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

MARC: Water Quality Enhancement Development, Design, and Implementation Block Grant

Mount Ascutney Regional Commission
State/Local Government
Vermont
Unspecified amount
The MARC is offering the Water Quality Enhancement Development, Design, and Implementation Block Grant to support innovative water quality enhancement projects. This program aims to address statutory goals, including flood resiliency and recreational benefits, by funding project development and engineering design. With a total funding of $1,980,188 available, projects can fall under two categories: Project Development and Engineering Design. No local match is required, making this an accessible opportunity for eligible applicants.
Water Resource Management Civil Engineering Environmental Engineering +1 more

Lake Erie Protection Fund Grant

Ohio Lake Erie Commission
State/Local Government
Ashtabula County, Ohio, Cuyahoga County, Ohio +6 more
Up to US $50,000
The Lake Erie Protection Fund Grant provides small grants up to $50,000 for projects aimed at preserving and restoring Lake Erie and its watersheds in Ohio. It emphasizes research and practical initiatives that improve environmental management and economic development. Funded through donations, this grant supports projects that may change annually in focus and funding amount, contributing to the health of Lake Erie.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Ecology Limnology +2 more

Community Response Fund Grant

Northwest Fund for the Environment (NWFE)
Private
Washington
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Community Response Fund Grant by the Northwest Fund for the Environment supports local organizations addressing urgent community needs. It focuses on grassroots engagement and environmental movement building, providing short-term funding for projects that empower under-resourced communities and enhance environmental advocacy. The grant aims to promote smart growth policies and protect Washington's aquatic ecosystems by funding initiatives that advance sustainable practices and resilience against climate change. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with a clear project plan.
Urban Planning Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation +2 more

NALMS Achievement Awards: Secchi Disk Award

North American Lake Management Society (NALMS)
Association/Society
North America
Unspecified amount
The NALMS Achievement Awards: Secchi Disk Award recognizes outstanding contributions to lake management by its members. NALMS aims to unite citizens, scientists, and professionals to ensure the protection and management of lakes and reservoirs. This prestigious award is open to NALMS members, with nominations encouraged from any individual or entity. However, current board and committee members are ineligible. The award celebrates those who significantly advance NALMS's goals and objectives in fostering lake ecosystem awareness and management.
Limnology Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

NALMS Achievement Awards: Jim Flynn Outstanding Corporation Award

North American Lake Management Society (NALMS)
Association/Society
North America
Unspecified amount
The Jim Flynn Outstanding Corporation Award, presented annually by NALMS, honors the corporation that has made significant contributions to advancing lake management goals. This award emphasizes the importance of facilitating information exchange, promoting public awareness of lake ecosystems, and supporting management programs at all levels. Eligible nominations can come from any individual or entity, focusing on achievements in lake and reservoir management. Notably, current NALMS board members and awards committee members are excluded from eligibility.
Limnology Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

JGLR/Elsevier Early Career Scientist Award

International Association for Great Lakes Research
Association/Society
Arenac County, Michigan, Bay County, Michigan +8 more
US $750
The JGLR/Elsevier Early Career Scientist Award, presented by the International Association for Great Lakes Research, recognizes the top-ranked paper in the Journal of Great Lakes Research authored by someone within five years of their terminal degree. This prestigious award includes a $750 cash prize and a one-year IAGLR membership. Evaluation criteria focus on originality, contribution, and presentation quality, celebrating significant research in the field of Great Lakes science.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management Environmental Health

Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs: Pennsylvania River of the Year

Pennsylvania Environmental Council
Private
Pennsylvania
US $15,000
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs, including the River of the Year initiative, aim to enhance public awareness and conservation efforts for designated rivers. Local organizations can apply for a $15,000 grant to support year-long activities celebrating the honored river. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and educational institutions, with a focus on engaging communities in outdoor recreation and resource protection. This program has recognized rivers since 1983, fostering environmental stewardship and community involvement.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

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

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming American Samoa District of Columbia Guam Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico Virgin Islands Africa Haiti

Related Grant Funding Focus Areas

Browse Other Environment & Conservation Grants

Aquaculture Grants Conservation Biology Grants Earth Science Grants Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits Environmental Education Grants Geology Grants Grants for Environmental Conservation Grants for Environmental Projects Grants for Land Conservation Marine Grants Paleontology Grants Plant Grants

Browse More Local Grants

Local Grants by City

Aquaculture Grants in Denver, CO Conservation Biology Grants in Reading, PA Grants for Land Conservation in Tracy, CA Marine Grants in Reading, PA Grants for Land Conservation in Lansing, MI Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits in Lancaster, CA Marine Grants in Las Vegas, NV Earth Science Grants in Knoxville, TN Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits in Modesto, CA Conservation Biology Grants in Pocatello, ID Grants for Environmental Conservation in Lincoln, NE Marine Grants in Des Moines, IA