Best Wildlife Grants in Washington

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office

The Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is a small state agency that manages grant programs to create outdoor recreation opportunities, protect the best of the state’s wildlife habitat and working farms and forests, and help return salmon and orcas from near extinction.

Planning for Recreation Access

The Washington State Legislature created the Planning for Recreation Access program to fund planning projects in communities that lack adequate access to outdoor recreation opportunities. This program specifically focuses on diverse urban neighborhoods, small rural communities, and those that are less experienced with RCO's grant process.

Grants are used to support planning, community engagement, and collaboration between local governments, community-based organizations, and residents to define outdoor recreation needs, prioritize investments to address those needs, and prepare on-the-ground projects for RCO and other funding opportunities.

Typical Projects

• Long-range, comprehensive recreation planning
• Pre-design plans and permitting for a park or athletic facility
• Comprehensive site planning, feasibility study, or technical survey for a park or trail

All phases of planning, pre-design, and technical assistance for public outdoor recreation facilities including comprehensive plans, construction drawings, environmental assessments, feasibility and preconstruction studies, cultural resources surveys, and comprehensive site plans are eligible.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources launched its Prescribed Fire Program in the fall of 2021 with the goal of reintroducing a cost-effective tool with a high rate of success for forest restoration and wildfire risk reduction in the dry forests of central and eastern Washington. Prescribed fire is a critical tool for completing objectives with the 20-Year Forest Health Strategic Plan: Eastern Washington.

Prescribed fire is a tool long used on dry-forest ecosystems in central and eastern Washington by Tribes, land management agencies and conservation groups. These types of forests, with their ponderosa pines and other fire-adapted plants, historically had low-intensity fires burn through their understories on a regular basis. These low-severity fires reduced the amount of ladder fuels capable of taking fires up into tree canopies, where they spread much more rapidly than at ground level.

A prescribed fire applies low-severity fire to the forest floor in order to reduce built-up vegetation while helping mature trees stay healthy and resilient. Trained fire professionals follow burn plans guided by state and federal regulations to reduce wildfire fuels on the ground, reintroduce vital nutrients into the soil, and restore natural, fire-adapted habitats for wildlife.

Safety is the number one priority of DNR's official prescribed fire policy - scheduled burns do not take place as planned if conditions do not meet strict and uncompromising standards. Skilled professionals within the agency conduct prescribed fire operations on DNR-managed lands, assist partner agencies with prescribed burning on land they manage, and oversee a certification program for people who want to lead or participate in prescribed burns.

The Kinsman Foundation offers conventional grants exceeding $5,000 for projects focused on historic preservation and wildlife rehabilitation in Oregon and southern Washington. These grants support public benefit activities, especially for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government agencies. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of August 1 for annual review. The Foundation prioritizes architectural preservation and licensed wildlife rehabilitation, while no matching funds are required and there are no limits on reapplications.

The Kinsman Foundation Small Grants program supports projects that benefit the public in Oregon and southern Washington, focusing on historic preservation and native wildlife rehabilitation. Grants, typically under $5,000, are awarded to tax-exempt nonprofits and government agencies without matching fund requirements. Applications are reviewed every 6-8 weeks, with no specific deadlines for inquiries under $5,000. The foundation emphasizes project support while considering general administrative support valuable for nonprofits.

The Hugh and Jane Ferguson Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, focusing on habitat restoration and wildlife preservation. Established in 1987, it aims to support community-based projects and collaborative initiatives that emphasize cultural and natural history. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, with a preference for marginalized communities. The foundation does not fund research projects or media production and is particularly interested in those with limited access to traditional funding sources.

The Charlotte Martin Foundation's Wildlife and Habitat Program focuses on promoting biodiversity and habitat conservation in the Northwest. It engages communities in addressing climate change impacts while emphasizing the importance of ecosystem resilience. Through collaboration with local organizations, the program aims to restore critical habitats, enhance landscape connectivity, and support underserved populations in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This initiative recognizes the vital role of community engagement and sustainable practices in protecting wildlife and natural resources.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Education and Enforcement-Nonhighway and Off-Road Vehicle Activities Grant Program in Washington supports the development and management of outdoor recreation opportunities, such as hiking and off-road vehicle use. It promotes environmentally responsible behaviors through education and enforcement initiatives. Funding, sourced from gasoline tax and vehicle use permits, is available biennially to various eligible applicants, including local agencies and Native American tribes, enhancing public access to natural resources.

The Firearms and Archery Range Recreation Grant Program, established by the Washington State Legislature in 1990, plays a vital role in enhancing public safety and recreational opportunities. It funds the acquisition, development, and renovation of firearm ranges and archery facilities, supporting law enforcement, sports groups, and community needs. By investing in these spaces, the program ensures that Washington's outdoor recreation resources are preserved and improved for current and future generations.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Estuary and Salmon Restoration Program (ESRP) offers Beach Restoration Small Grants to support projects that enhance and conserve near-shore environments in Puget Sound. This initiative, managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, aims to maintain resilient estuaries and shorelines in the face of climate change. Grants are provided to create demonstration sites for local landowners, promoting effective restoration practices and fostering community engagement.

The Washington Coast Restoration and Resiliency Initiative provides critical funding and technical assistance to coastal communities in Washington State, addressing urgent ecological restoration needs while also creating jobs. Established by the Legislature in 2015, this program aims to enhance the health of the land and water, supporting both local economies and the environment. Projects funded must prioritize ecological protection and restoration, ensuring sustainable benefits for future generations.

The WA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) focuses on preserving agricultural land through Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE). This program helps landowners protect their land's agricultural viability and conservation values by limiting non-agricultural uses. To participate, landowners must collaborate with eligible partners and adhere to specific compliance requirements. The USDA's NRCS plays a key role in funding and supporting these conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices in Washington.

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife 

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and perpetuating the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.

Headquartered in Olympia, the department maintains six regional offices and manages dozens of wildlife areas and hundreds of water access areas around the state, offering fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and other recreational opportunities for the residents of Washington.

Wildlife Diversity Grant Program

WDFW’s Wildlife Diversity Grant Program aims to support recovery actions for a suite of Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). Grant funding can also be awarded for projects aimed at collecting data and information on species abundance, distribution, and habitat associations, with priority for SGCN whose habitats are under significant threat of incompatible development, land use, or resource management. Coordination with WDFW species leads and alignment with WDFW priorities is critical to the success of grant-funded projects. 

Projects must take place within Washington Biennium 2025-2027 (BN25-27). We strongly encourage prospective applicants to consult WDFW species leads before submitting an application to ensure their proposals are well-informed and aligned with WDFW priorities and plans for specific species.

The Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board Grant, established in 2014, aims to enhance salmon and steelhead migration by funding projects that remove fish passage barriers. With $25 million available through the PROTECT program, local governments can apply for projects exceeding $1 million. This initiative, administered by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Recreation and Conservation Office, supports sustainable transportation solutions while aligning with state conservation principles.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) offers funding for diverse land conservation projects, from urban habitat protection to the preservation of rare plant species. Established in 1990, the WWRP aims to acquire and develop recreation and habitat lands to serve a growing population. Grants require a 50% match from local agencies and nonprofits, with specific funding caps based on project type, ensuring that vital ecosystems and recreational spaces are preserved for future generations.

The Snoqualmie Tribal Organization Grant for Habitat Restoration offers up to $50,000 to nonprofit organizations in Washington State focused on restoring habitat for fish and wildlife. Since 2010, the Snoqualmie Tribe has contributed over $8 million to various nonprofits. Eligible applicants must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) organizations located in Washington State, ensuring support for local community initiatives aimed at environmental preservation.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Farmland Preservation Grants through the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program aim to secure development rights on farmland, ensuring its future use for agriculture. This initiative not only protects vital farming land but also allows for restoration projects to enhance its productivity. Established in 1990, the program reflects a commitment to balancing land conservation with the needs of a growing population, thereby fostering sustainable agricultural practices within the state.

The Forestland Preservation Grant Program in Washington provides financial support for the acquisition of conservation easements to protect forests from development. This initiative, part of the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, aims to maintain timber production while promoting ecological benefits and public access. Eligible applicants can request funding up to $500,000 for projects that ensure sustainable forest management and habitat enhancement, contributing to the conservation of vital natural resources.

About WDFW

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and perpetuating the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.

Headquartered in Olympia, the department maintains six regional offices and manages dozens of wildlife areas and hundreds of water access areas around the state, offering fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and other recreational opportunities for the residents of Washington.

Watchable Wildlife Grant Program

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) created the Watchable Wildlife Grant Program in 2021 to support wildlife viewing opportunities and foster stewardship of wildlife in Washington. Funds to support the Washington Watchable Wildlife Grant come from the Wild on Washington: Bald Eagle license plate – one of WDFW’s specialized license plates.

Wildlife viewing is a recreational activity of observing fish or wildlife or signs of them in their habitats (e.g. tracks, nests, scat). This includes exploring habitat in person or online to better understand fish and wildlife.

WDFW’s Watchable Wildlife Program as defined by RCW 77.32.560 includes but is not limited to: Initiating partnerships with communities to jointly develop watchable wildlife projects, building infrastructure to serve wildlife viewers, assisting and training communities in conducting wildlife watching events, developing destination wildlife viewing corridors and trails, tours, maps, brochures, and travel aides, and offering grants to assist rural communities in identifying key wildlife attractions and ways to protect and promote them.

The Pacific Power Foundation offers Community Enhancement and Environmental Respect Grants to support nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power service areas. Since 2019, the foundation has contributed over $13 million to promote community resilience, affordable housing, and environmental conservation. Eligible candidates include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions. Grants aim to address local needs while ensuring responsible environmental stewardship, enhancing community vitality, and fostering sustainable development.