Chi-Cal Rivers Fund
Forecasted
Chi-Cal Rivers Fund supports organizations restoring Chicago and Calumet waterways through habitat improvements, nature-based stormwater projects and public access work to improve river health and accessibility.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $100,000–$300,000 for typically 24 months (2019 applicant FAQ); 2025 awards included $322,000
Summary: Supports habitat restoration, nature-based stormwater solutions, public access and stewardship benefiting Chicago and Calumet waterways.
Key Information: Projects must occur near or demonstrate direct benefits to the region’s major waterways and tributaries.
Description
The Chi-Cal Rivers Fund is a public-private partnership administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) to restore the health, vitality and accessibility of waterways in the Chicago and Calumet region. It supports nature-based solutions, habitat enhancement, public-use improvements and stewardship. Current priorities are improving habitat quality and connectivity, expanding and maintaining nature-based stormwater storage, and activating restored habitats and natural areas.
The Fund addresses dangerous flooding, impaired water quality, degraded habitats and limited safe public access. Supported work slows, stores and filters runoff to reduce combined sewer overflows and the discharge of contaminants and sediment. The program aims to reduce flood-related property damage and health risks, lower municipal stormwater-management costs, improve habitat for fish, birds and other wildlife, and promote safe, economically important public uses of the river systems.
