Environmental Justice Grant Programs
The Environmental Justice Grant Programs fund community-led research and projects addressing environmental harms in New York's disadvantaged communities, administered by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
Funder: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2026 | July 2027 (two projected cycles)
Funding Amounts: Up to $200,000 per award for up to 36 months; minimum request $50,000; no match required.
Summary: Supports community-based organizations in New York State to address environmental harms and health hazards in disadvantaged and environmental justice communities.
Key Information: This is a forecasted grant; all dates are projected and subject to change.
Description
The Environmental Justice Grant Programs, administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) Office of Environmental Justice, provide competitive funding to local community-based organizations (CBOs) and Tribal organizations. The program aims to empower communities to develop and implement projects that address significant environmental issues, harms, and health hazards—especially in Disadvantaged Communities (DACs) and Potential Environmental Justice Areas (PEJAs). Projects must include a research component that expands knowledge or awareness within the affected community. Funded activities can include community gardens, environmental education, air/water/soil monitoring, habitat restoration, composting, and capacity building.
