Aquatic Center Grant Program
The Aquatic Center Grant Program funds hands-on boating safety education and training in California, supporting research-based instruction and equipment to enhance safe boating practices statewide.
Funder: California Department of Parks and Recreation
Due Dates: October 24, 2025 | October 30, 2026
Funding Amounts: Typical annual awards range from ~$750 to $62,000 per grantee; total program funding for 2025-26 was $1,336,999.
Summary: Supports California-based nonprofits, colleges, universities, and local agencies to provide hands-on boating safety education and training.
Key Information: Funds are distributed via reimbursement only; applicants must cover costs up front.
Description
The Aquatic Center Grant Program, managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation's Division of Boating and Waterways, funds organizations to deliver practical, on-the-water boating safety education throughout California. The program aims to enhance boaters’ knowledge of laws, vessel handling, environmental stewardship, and safety practices, fostering safer and more inclusive boating communities. Eligible activities include hands-on training, equipment acquisition, and scholarships to increase access to boating safety education, especially for underserved populations.
