2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program
This grant funds projects that help communities turn urban wood waste into valuable products, supporting local economies, job creation, and better forest management.
Funder: Forest Service
Due Dates: October 12, 2026: Full application deadline
Funding Amounts: $200,000–$750,000 per award; ~$1,000,000 total program funding; up to 5 awards; 1–3 years typical project duration
Summary: Supports projects that advance urban and community wood resource utilization to strengthen local economies, reduce waste, and improve community resilience.
Key Information: Cost share/matching is required.
Description
This grant program aims to address economic, health, and environmental challenges faced by communities by advancing the utilization of urban and community wood resources. The 2026 cycle focuses on projects that turn wood generated from tree maintenance, removals, storm events, and pest or disease outbreaks into valuable products such as lumber, furniture, flooring, biochar, or other materials. The goal is to reduce waste, create economic opportunities, and enhance community resilience.
Competitive proposals should demonstrate alignment with existing community forestry plans, adherence to industry-recognized safety and tree-care standards, and clear economic, environmental, or workforce benefits. Projects should also detail anticipated wood products, partnerships with professional or industry organizations, and opportunities for job creation, training, or certification.
The program encourages practical, creative, and replicable projects that help communities establish or expand wood-utilization efforts.
