Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026
The USDA is offering up to $310 million for partners to propose conservation projects that address natural resource concerns through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program for FY 2026; proposals due August 24, 2026.
Funder: Natural Resources Conservation Service
Due Dates: August 24, 2026 (Full proposal deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000,000 per project | Minimum $250,000 | Approx. $310 million total program funding
Summary: Supports partner-led, innovative conservation projects addressing natural resource concerns on agricultural land through alternative funding arrangements.
Key Information: Cost sharing/matching required; proposals must be submitted via the RCPP portal by the deadline.
Description
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) provides substantial federal co-investment for projects that address critical natural resource concerns on agricultural lands, ranches, and private forest lands. The AFA model empowers partners to propose, manage, and implement conservation projects using innovative approaches, including pay-for-performance models, large-scale infrastructure, and other novel solutions to conservation challenges.
RCPP AFA projects must demonstrate strong partner capacity to deliver both technical and financial assistance, measurable conservation outcomes, and meaningful collaboration with producers and local stakeholders. Projects may address resource concerns in one or more states or focus on NRCS-designated Critical Conservation Areas (CCAs). The program emphasizes equity, innovation, and measurable impact.
