[William Penn Foundation](https://williampennfoundation.org)

June 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

Recent awards total ~$5 million; individual grant sizes vary depending on project scope.

Supports innovative, community-driven solutions to reduce illegal dumping in Philadelphia by 50% by 2035, transforming neglected spaces into public assets.

--- ## Description This grant opportunity from the William Penn Foundation aims to tackle illegal dumping in Philadelphia, particularly in neighborhoods facing historic environmental and socio-economic challenges. The program’s goal is to reduce the annual volume of illegally dumped waste collected citywide by 50% by 2035. Funding supports creative, community-led projects that prevent dumping and transform neglected or blighted spaces—often chronic dumping sites—into valuable community assets such as parks, gardens, or recreational areas. The initiative encourages proposals that address both environmental improvement and broader neighborhood well-being. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (Full application deadline, anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Total recent awards: Approximately $5 million distributed across 9 grants since 2024. - Typical grant size: Varies by project scope; both small and large-scale initiatives are supported. - Funding duration: Project-dependent. --- ## Eligibility - Open to nonprofit organizations, community groups, and potentially other entities with strong ties to Philadelphia neighborhoods. - Projects must focus on reducing illegal dumping and/or transforming neglected spaces within Philadelphia, especially in areas with high levels of dumping or environmental burdens. - Preference is given to community-driven, innovative approaches with measurable impact. --- ## Application Process - Review the [William Penn Foundation's funding guidelines](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/how-apply). - Prepare a proposal that clearly outlines the community need, proposed solution, and anticipated impact on illegal dumping. - Submit the application through the Foundation’s [grants portal](https://wpf.my.site.com/grantee/s/login/). - Applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation with questions or to discuss project ideas before applying. --- ## Additional Information - Progress is measured through City of Philadelphia data on illegal dumping removal and 311 call reports. - Projects that engage local residents and demonstrate collaboration with community stakeholders are highly encouraged. - The Foundation values proposals that not only address dumping but also create lasting community assets. --- ## External Links - [Program Objective: Reduce Illegal Dumping](https://williampennfoundation.org/objective/reduce-illegal-dumping) - [How to Apply for Funding](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/how-apply) - [William Penn Foundation Home](https://williampennfoundation.org) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | Profile Link | |----------------|--------------------------|------------------------------|-----------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Nathan Boon | Senior Program Officer, Environment and Public Space | grants@williampennfoundation.org | (215) 988-1830 | [Nathan Boon Profile](https://williampennfoundation.org/profile/nathan-boon) | ---

Reduce Illegal Dumping - William Penn Foundation

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