America’s Ecosystem Restoration Initiative
The America’s Ecosystem Restoration Initiative funds collaborative research and restoration projects to enhance ecosystem health and resilience across the US, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates: September 9, 2026 (Deadline for questions) | October 2, 2026 (Proposal submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: Award size varies by project scope; budget proposals required; duration and maximum not specified—negotiated upon award.
Summary: Funds collaborative, landscape-scale conservation and ecosystem restoration projects across the US, streamlining access to federal and private funding.
Key Information: Proposals must be submitted by email; questions due September 9, 2026, by 11:00 PM EST.
Description
The America’s Ecosystem Restoration Initiative (AERI), administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), is a nationwide grant program supporting voluntary conservation and restoration projects across public, private, and Tribal lands. The initiative consolidates funding from federal agencies and private partners, making it easier for applicants to develop and implement projects addressing shared conservation priorities. AERI focuses on habitat restoration, ecosystem and community resilience, nature access, workforce development, and the creation of habitat corridors. The program encourages locally led, partnership-driven projects that conserve and restore rivers, coasts, wetlands, forests, grasslands, and other vital ecosystems, while fostering connectivity and resilience in the face of environmental threats.
