Aquatic Center Grant Program
This grant funds California organizations to provide hands-on boating safety education, training, and equipment that improve boater knowledge and environmental stewardship.
Funder: California Department of Parks and Recreation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Final application submission deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Typical individual awards: $750–$62,000; total program funding ~$1.3M/year; 1-year project period.
Summary: Supports California organizations providing on-the-water boating safety education, equipment, and training to enhance boater knowledge and stewardship.
Key Information: Reimbursement-based funding; applicants must have funds to cover costs upfront.
Description
The Aquatic Center Grant Program, administered by the Division of Boating and Waterways of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, provides annual grant funding to local public agencies, nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3)), and colleges/universities operating in California. The program is designed to promote safer and more enjoyable boating by supporting organizations that deliver on-the-water boating safety education and training. Grants may be used for scholarships, equipment purchases, and program expenses that enhance boaters’ knowledge of safety laws, vessel handling, water/weather awareness, rules of the road, equipment requirements, and environmental stewardship.
