Lake Erie Community Grant
Lake Erie Community Grant supports community-led projects in Ohio’s Lake Erie watershed that restore habitat, control invasive species, and reduce runoff to strengthen local restoration capacity.
Funder: Ohio Lake Erie Commission
Due Dates: December 16, 2026 (Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: $150,000–$350,000 for mid-size projects lasting an anticipated 12–24 months
Summary: Supports community-led environmental restoration projects in Ohio’s Lake Erie watershed.
Key Information: Projects must report a numeric estimate for at least one required Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Measure of Progress.
Description
The Ohio Lake Erie Commission administers this Great Lakes Restoration Initiative-funded program to support environmental restoration in communities within Ohio’s Lake Erie watershed. The current call funds mid-size projects focused on habitat restoration or aquatic connectivity, invasive species control, and non-point source runoff reduction. Hands-on, place-based Great Lakes education for K–12 youth may be included as a secondary activity.
The program aims to improve habitat and stormwater management, strengthen communities’ ability to withstand intensified storms, and build local capacity to carry out restoration work. It prioritizes communities with unmet environmental investment needs and encourages community members’ involvement throughout a project. The commission offers assistance with project planning, partnerships, and navigating the grant process.
