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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

Valley Water Community Partnering Sponsorship Program

Santa Clara Valley Water District
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Valley Water Community Partnering Sponsorship Program supports local organizations and events that align with its mission of providing safe and clean water in Silicon Valley. This program encourages civic engagement and environmental stewardship by offering sponsorships to public agencies, nonprofits, schools, and community groups. Eligible applicants are those that demonstrate a commitment to regional water policy and positive environmental impact. This initiative underscores Valley Water's dedication to collaborative efforts in fostering a sustainable community.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Environment Water Resource Management +1 more

Lead Service Line Inventory Grant Program

Illinois Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Illinois
US $20,000 - US $50,000
The Lead Service Line Inventory Grant Program offers funding to local government units for creating a comprehensive lead service line inventory as mandated by Illinois law. Eligible applicants can receive between $20,000 and $50,000, with applications reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Additional financial support may be sought through low-interest loans for line replacements. Reporting requirements include quarterly updates and annual financial evaluations, ensuring transparency and accountability in project progress.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

Drinking Water Source Protection Grant Program (OR)

Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB)
State/Local Government
Oregon
Up to US $3,000,000
The Drinking Water Source Protection Grant Program (OR) provides crucial funding for public water suppliers to enhance, restore, or protect drinking water sources. Established by Oregon's HB 2010, this program allocates $5 million, with individual grants capped at $3 million, to support land acquisition and conservation efforts. It particularly focuses on serving rural and lower-income communities, ensuring access to clean water while promoting environmental stewardship and community health.
Water Resource Management Land / Habitat Conservation

Small Cities Development Program

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)
State/Local Government
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Becker County, Minnesota +79 more
US $600,000 - US $1,400,000
The Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) provides essential funding to cities, townships, and counties for housing, public infrastructure, and commercial rehabilitation projects. Aimed at benefiting low-and-moderate income households, SCDP enhances community viability by facilitating economic opportunities and improving living conditions. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), this program offers competitive grants for diverse development needs, with funding caps of $600,000 for single-purpose projects and $1.4 million for comprehensive initiatives.
Architecture Public Infrastructure Real Estate & Housing +3 more

Irrigation Modernization Funding - Cycle 1 & Cycle 2

Oregon Water Resources Department
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Irrigation Modernization Funding program, administered by the Oregon Water Resources Department, aims to enhance water use efficiency in irrigation systems across agricultural lands. This initiative supports diverse projects that yield economic, environmental, and cultural benefits while requiring federal matching funds linked to recognized watershed plans. Local governments, tribes, and individuals are encouraged to apply, provided they meet eligibility criteria, including the submission of a Water Management and Conservation Plan if needed.
Water Resource Management

Special Wildlife Funds - Duck Stamp Grants - Canada

Canada Department Of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Canada, United States
Up to US $500,000
The Special Wildlife Funds - Duck Stamp Grants program in Canada focuses on the development of waterfowl propagation areas specifically for the Mississippi Flyway. It supports projects in Manitoba and Saskatchewan aimed at enhancing breeding populations of migratory waterfowl. This initiative is funded through the sale of State Migratory Waterfowl Stamps and is targeted at not-for-profit organizations dedicated to the conservation and promotion of wild waterfowl, ensuring sustainable habitats and effective management practices.
Water Resource Management

Source Water Protection Local Assistance Grant Program (WA)

Washington State Department Of Health
Private
Washington
Up to US $100,000
The Source Water Protection Local Assistance Grant Program in Washington offers financial support for projects aimed at safeguarding drinking water sources. With up to $200,000 available annually, the program encourages local governments, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions to implement measures that reduce contamination risks. Eligible projects include planning studies, implementation of best management practices, and security enhancements to protect water sources. This initiative promotes long-term improvements in water quality and public health.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Environmental Contamination & Pollution Water Resource Management

Community Development Block Grant Program (CA)

California Department of Housing and Community Development
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) in California offers funding to improve living conditions for low- and moderate-income residents. Grants are allocated for community and economic development projects that address urgent needs, prevent slums, and enhance public services. Eligible activities include housing rehabilitation, public improvements, and economic assistance. With competitive applications capped at $300,000 and specific project limits, the program aims to foster viable urban communities and support diverse community needs.
Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization Waste Management +11 more

Alabama RC&D Grants

Alabama Resource Conservation And Development Council Inc
Private
Alabama
Unspecified amount
The Alabama RC&D Grants support community projects aimed at enhancing local resources and quality of life. They offer funding for both Education Fund Projects, which must include an educational component, and General Fund Projects, which do not. Eligible applicants include 501c3 non-profit organizations and government entities. With nine councils across Alabama, projects involving multiple councils may apply for statewide grants to maximize impact.
Natural Resources Energy Food Access & Hunger +2 more

Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program

California Natural Resources Agency
State/Local Government
California
US $200,000 - US $10,000,000
The Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program by the California Natural Resources Agency allocates $100 million for ancestral land return projects. This initiative aims to empower California Native American tribes by facilitating property rights acquisition and supporting multi-benefit nature-based solutions. With a focus on collaboration, the program seeks to enhance environmental stewardship, cultural restoration, and habitat connectivity while prioritizing projects that address landlessness and promote conservation efforts. The program reflects a commitment to respecting tribal sovereignty and ecological restoration.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Stewardship Native American Culture & Heritage +2 more

CDBG: Water/Wastewater Grant

Missouri Department of Economic Development
State/Local Government
Missouri
Up to US $750,000
The CDBG: Water/Wastewater Grant provides essential funding for communities to enhance their drinking water and wastewater systems. This grant, in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and USDA-Rural Development, invites applications year-round following a preliminary proposal review. The maximum funding available is $750,000, or $5,000 per household, targeting construction projects related to public water treatment and sewer systems, while excluding maintenance activities.
Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Idaho Flood Management Grants

Idaho Department of Water Resources
State/Local Government
Idaho
Up to US $200,000
The Idaho Flood Management Grants program provides financial assistance for projects aimed at repairing flood-damaged stream channels and improving flood risk management across the state. Grants of up to $200,000 are available to eligible public entities, including municipalities and irrigation districts. Applicants must demonstrate the need for repairs and provide matching funds. Prioritizing projects with higher cost-share contributions can enhance competitiveness. This initiative aims to mitigate future flood risks in Idaho's waterways.
Water Resource Management

Drinking Water and Wastewater Funding (ID)

Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ)
State/Local Government
Idaho
US $45,000 - US $65,000
The Drinking Water and Wastewater Funding program in Idaho provides financial assistance to eligible systems for planning grants. These funds support the development of facility plans to ensure compliance with state and federal standards. Eligible applicants include counties, cities, and nonprofit corporations for wastewater, and public water systems for drinking water. The number of grants is limited by available funding, with grants covering up to 50% of eligible costs, historically maxing at $45,000 for drinking water and $65,000 for wastewater.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Waste Management Water Resource Management

Drinking Water Infrastructure Grants (NV)

Nevada Division of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Nevada
Unspecified amount
The Drinking Water Infrastructure Grants program in Nevada aims to support small communities in financing essential drinking water projects. Established to bridge the financial gap, it encourages local efforts before seeking state assistance. Eligible projects include water treatment facilities, pipeline replacements, and water conservation improvements. Preference is given to systems serving under 6,000 people and projects addressing compliance issues to ensure safe drinking water standards are met.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

Water and Sewer Infrastructure Grant Program

Kansas Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Allen County, Kansas, Anderson County, Kansas +102 more
Up to US $800,000
The Water and Sewer Infrastructure Grant Program, administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, allocates $1 million in 2024 to support essential water and sewer projects in communities with populations over 5,000. Each eligible project can receive up to $800,000, with a required 25% cash match. Funding is intended for infrastructure improvements, engineering costs, and administrative expenses, making it vital for enhancing community water systems.
Engineering Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

Regional Water Implementation Grant

Kansas Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Allen County, Kansas, Anderson County, Kansas +96 more
Up to US $1,000,000
The Regional Water Implementation Grant aims to enhance collaboration among water systems in Kansas by providing funding for preliminary engineering studies. With a maximum funding amount of $1,000,000 for 2024, this grant encourages projects that consolidate systems, expand water supply districts, and connect previously unlinked public water supply systems. A 50% match can be sourced from local or KDHE funds, promoting effective water management across the state.
Engineering Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

Point Source Implementation Grants

Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Up to US $12,000,000
The Point Source Implementation Grants support local governments in funding essential water infrastructure projects. These grants aim to comply with TMDL plans under the Clean Water Act, reduce phosphorus discharge, and meet specific nitrogen limits. Eligible applicants include cities with projects ready for construction by spring/summer 2025. Those who previously applied but did not obtain MPCA certification are encouraged to reapply. This initiative aims to enhance water quality and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
Water Resource Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water +1 more

Clean Water Revolving Fund (MN)

Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Clean Water Revolving Fund in Minnesota provides below-market-rate loans to support communities in upgrading wastewater treatment facilities to meet federal standards. Managed by the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the fund aims to enhance water quality and public health. Eligible applicants include cities and counties, with specific project requirements and loan terms based on population size. The program promotes financial responsibility and environmental compliance, ensuring sustainable water management.
Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water/Wastewater Financing Program Grant (OR)

Business Oregon
State/Local Government
Oregon
Up to US $750,000
The Water/Wastewater Financing Program Grant in Oregon supports public infrastructure projects ensuring compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act. Grants up to $750,000 are available for eligible public entities, with a focus on municipalities under 15,000 in population. Funding is determined by financial capacity, and technical assistance grants of up to $50,000 are also offered. Certain costs, such as those for privately owned facilities, are ineligible.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Septic Environmental Program to Improve Cleanliness (SEPTIC) Grant

Nassau County, New York
State/Local Government
Nassau County, New York
Up to US $20,000
Nassau County has launched the Septic Environmental Program to Improve Cleanliness (SEPTIC) Grant, aimed at replacing outdated septic systems with innovative nitrogen-reducing technologies. Grants of up to $20,000 are available for eligible homeowners and small businesses, addressing nitrogen pollution—an urgent concern for Long Island's water quality. This initiative supports public health and environmental sustainability, significantly reducing nitrogen discharge while ensuring effective wastewater treatment.
Water Resource Management Waste Management

Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (CA)

California Department of Water Resources
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount

Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (CA)

The Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (DSCR) provides state funding for repairs, rehabilitation, enhancements, and other dam safety projects at existing state-jurisdictional dams and associated facilities that were in service prior to January 1, 2023. Established in 2023, the program has received a new allocation of $464 million in two rounds of funding through Proposition 4 (The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024). As a result of this new funding, the program requires new guidelines and a revised solicitation process..

Program Details

DSCR projects should provide some or all of the following public benefits.

They are listed below in order of priority:

  • Protection of public safety.
  • Restoration of water storage.
  • Flood risk reduction.
  • Enhancement of water supply reliability.
  • Enhancement, protection, or restoration of habitat for fish and wildlife.
  • Protection of water quality.

DSCR projects eligible to receive funding under the program include the following:

  • Dam repairs to allow water storage to full capacity.
  • New spillway and spillway repair projects at existing dams.
  • Dam and reservoir seismic retrofit projects.
  • Enhancement of water supply and downstream flood risk reduction such as implementation of Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations.
  • One-time projects to remove sediment resulting from wildfires or extraordinary storm events.
  • Improvements to appurtenances to address dam safety-related deficiencies identified by the department.

Water Resource Management

Green Partners Grants: Environmental Action Program

Minnesota State Government - Hennepin County
State/Local Government
Hennepin County, Minnesota
Up to US $50,000
The Green Partners Grant by Hennepin County aims to empower organizations to foster environmental stewardship among residents. This program provides funding for initiatives that engage both youth and adults in sustainable practices. Key focus areas include waste reduction, composting, and enhancing biodiversity through habitat creation. Three grant types are available: Environmental Action, Youth Environmental Leadership, and Youth Environmental Education. Eligible applicants include schools, nonprofits, and park districts, with funding amounts varying based on previous awards.
Environmental Stewardship Environmental Education Waste Management +6 more

RRGL Private Grants

Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation
State/Local Government
Montana
Up to US $5,000
The Renewable Resource Grant and Loan Program (RRGL) supports the conservation and management of Montana's renewable resources by funding water-related projects for private entities. Grants are available for initiatives that enhance water resource sustainability, provided they meet specific criteria, such as benefiting a water resource and not being funded by a government entity. This program aims to secure economic and social prosperity for Montana's citizens.
Water Resource Management

Horton PhD Research Grant

AGU- Advancing Earth and Space Science
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Horton PhD Research Grant supports up to three Ph.D. students annually in hydrology and related fields, funded by the Robert E. Horton Fund. It provides a maximum of $10,000 for research and travel, along with $500 for U.S. and Canadian applicants participating in AGU's annual meeting. Eligible students must be active AGU members, enrolled for the award's duration, and meet all application requirements. This grant promotes excellence in hydrological sciences.
Geophysics Water Resource Management Hydrology

Municipal Flood Control Grant Program

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $600,000
The Municipal Flood Control Grant Program, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to assist local governments in managing flood risks. It provides funding for property acquisition, floodproofing, and flood control structure construction to enhance community resilience against flooding. This proactive approach addresses climate change impacts, promotes environmental sustainability, and aims to protect lives and property. Eligible projects focus on minimizing flood-related damages while maintaining natural watercourse functions.
Disaster Preparedness Climate Change Resilience & Equity Water Resource Management +1 more

Emerging Contaminants / PFAS Funding

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $5,000,000
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ) is offering funding for projects addressing PFAS contamination in water systems during its Fall 2023 funding round. Eligible applicants include local government units and non-profit water corporations. Funding supports both planning and construction efforts, enabling systems to assess and implement solutions for PFAS issues. This initiative aims to enhance water quality and public health by tackling emerging contaminants effectively.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

San Francisco Green Infrastructure Grant

San Francisco Water Power Sewer
State/Local Government
San Francisco County, California
Unspecified amount
The San Francisco Green Infrastructure Grant Program, managed by the SFPUC, aims to support property owners in creating green stormwater infrastructure. This initiative includes projects like permeable pavement and rain gardens, designed to reduce stormwater runoff from at least 0.5 acres of impervious surfaces. Grants can provide up to $2.5 million per project, enhancing public benefits while improving sewer system performance for SFPUC rate payers.
Green Infrastructure 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.

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