Nonpoint Source Grants
The Illinois EPA's Nonpoint Source Grants fund research and projects that address diffuse pollution to improve water quality through planning and implementation of best management practices.
Funder: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
Due Dates: July 1, 2026 (Projected full application deadline) | September 16, 2026 (FY2026 full application deadline, 1:00 PM)
Funding Amounts: Up to 60% of total project costs; approx. $4.75M total annual funding; 2-year typical project period.
Summary: Supports Illinois projects that improve water quality by addressing nonpoint source pollution through planning and implementation.
Key Information: 40% match required; reimbursement program; use Illinois GATA Grantee Portal.
Description
The Nonpoint Source Grants program, administered by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Bureau of Water, provides financial assistance to local governments and organizations for projects that improve water quality by targeting nonpoint source pollution. Nonpoint source pollution arises from diffuse sources such as agricultural or urban runoff and can impair rivers, streams, lakes, and other water bodies across Illinois. The program funds both planning (e.g., watershed-based management plans) and implementation (e.g., best management practices) efforts aimed at reducing, preventing, or eliminating water quality impairments.
