Chesapeake WILD
The Chesapeake WILD Grants fund science-based projects that restore habitats, improve water quality, and support at-risk species in the Chesapeake Bay watershed through conservation, adaptation, and partnership-building.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Full application deadline for Chesapeake WILD Grants, projected)
Funding Amounts: Implementation: $75,000–$500,000; Collaborative Conservation: up to $200,000; Planning/Technical Assistance: up to $75,000; 1-year projects typical, multi-year considered.
Summary: Supports conservation, stewardship, and habitat enhancement for at-risk species in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, emphasizing restoration, water quality, adaptation, access, and partnerships.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all dates are projected and subject to confirmation.
Description
The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, supports projects that improve the condition and connectivity of habitats for at-risk and federally listed species within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Guided by the Chesapeake WILD Framework, the program targets conservation, stewardship, and enhancement of fish and wildlife habitats, with additional emphasis on water quality, climate adaptation, equitable public access, and partnership capacity building. The program is structured around five pillars: restoring and connecting habitats, improving water quality, adapting to changing landscapes, expanding access to nature and outdoor recreation, and building collaborative conservation networks.
