Increasing Urban Trees in Philadelphia
The William Penn Foundation's Increasing Urban Trees in Philadelphia grant funds science-based projects to expand tree canopy and promote climate resilience in priority city neighborhoods.
Funder: William Penn Foundation
Due Dates: October 22, 2026 (Proposals due by 5:00PM ET)
Funding Amounts: $25,000–$900,000 per project (up to 3 years); $3.2M total available
Summary: Funds projects that increase tree canopy in Philadelphia’s priority areas, aiming for 35,000 new trees by 2035 to advance equity and climate resilience.
Key Information: Applicants must be 501(c)3 nonprofits, government entities, or operate under a fiscal sponsor.
Description
The William Penn Foundation seeks proposals for projects that will increase the number of trees in Philadelphia’s seven priority areas as defined in the Philly Tree Plan. The initiative addresses significant tree canopy loss and inequitable distribution, particularly affecting lower-income and Black and Brown-majority neighborhoods. The Foundation aims to add at least 35,000 new trees in these areas by 2035, improving quality of life, reducing urban heat, and contributing to climate change mitigation.
Eligible projects may include direct tree planting and care, community engagement, workforce development, policy advocacy, and efforts to remove barriers to planting. All proposals must demonstrate alignment with one or more sub-goals of the Philly Tree Plan and show measurable contributions toward the overall objective.
