[Chesapeake Bay Foundation](https://www.cbf.org)

Rolling (until funds are expended for the fiscal year; apply at least 6 weeks before your event)

Typically $500 for programmatic support; up to $500 for marketing support; one-year project period

Supports events that promote awareness and protection of Chesapeake Bay and Maryland watershed natural resources.

Applications must be submitted at least 6 weeks before the event start date.

--- ## Description The Sponsorship Program from the Chesapeake Bay Trust supports events such as conferences, festivals, and forums that raise awareness about restoration and protection of natural resources in the Chesapeake Bay and Maryland’s other watersheds. Events must align with the Trust’s mission, either by achieving programmatic outcomes (educational awareness, behavior change) or marketing outcomes (promoting the Trust’s programs and fundraising streams). The program encourages participation from underrepresented groups and seeks to engage new applicants, small organizations, and diverse communities. --- ## Due Dates - Applications are accepted on a **rolling basis** until fiscal year funds are fully expended. - All proposals must be submitted **at least six weeks prior to the start of the proposed event**. - Fiscal Year 2026 runs from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. - Check the [program page](https://cbtrust.org/grants/sponsorship-program/) for the most current status. --- ## Funding Amount - **Programmatic support:** Typically $500 per event. - **Marketing support:** Up to $500 per event. - Projects must be completed within 12 months of award receipt. - No cost share or matching is required, but it is encouraged. --- ## Eligibility Eligible applicants include: - Nonprofit organizations - Faith-based organizations - Community associations - Service and civic groups - Municipal, county, regional, state, and federal public agencies **Project locations:** Events must serve a Maryland audience but may take place anywhere within the Chesapeake Bay watershed (including DE, DC, PA, VA, WV). **Event requirements:** - Generally intended for audiences of 100 or more; smaller events should consider other Trust programs. - Must have a clear programmatic or marketing connection to the Trust’s mission. - Fundraising events are considered case-by-case under the marketing track. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted through the [online system](https://www.grantrequest.com/SID_1520?SA=SNA&FID=35174). - Applicants must identify both an Executive Officer and an Event Leader (two separate individuals). - The Event Leader’s email must match the one used to submit the application. - Required application sections include organization info, event details, deliverables, volunteer activities, partnerships, supporting documents, budget, and agreement to terms. - New, small, or under-resourced applicants are encouraged to contact the Trust for guidance. - Reviewers evaluate applications for alignment with program goals and completeness of supporting materials. - Historical approval rates: ~74% overall. --- ## Additional Information - Projects must be completed within one year of award. - Award notifications are sent by email; allow at least 2–4 weeks for fund disbursement after approval. - Awardees may be required to submit a post-event report. - The Trust is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its funding. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & Apply](https://cbtrust.org/grants/sponsorship-program/) - [Request for Proposals (PDF)](https://cbtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/Sponsorship-Program_FY26_Final.pdf) - [Start New Application](https://www.grantrequest.com/SID_1520?SA=SNA&FID=35174) - [Manage Existing Grant](https://us.grantrequest.com/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2faccountmanager.aspx%3fSA%3dAM%26sid%3d1520&SA=AM&sid=1520) - [Impact Map of Funded Projects](https://cbtrust.org/impact-of-our-work/) - [Application Accessibility Statement](https://cbtrust.org/accessibility-statement/) - [Trust’s Mission Statement](https://cbtrust.org/mission/) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Name/Title | Email | Phone | |------------------------|---------------------------|------------------------------------------|----------------------| | Programmatic Requests | Sadie Friesen, Program Assistant | sfriesen@cbtrust.org | 410-974-2941 x150 | | Marketing Requests | Celia Parker, VP of Communications & Advancement | cparker@cbtrust.org | 410-974-2941 x142 | | General Info | Chesapeake Bay Trust | [Contact Page](https://cbtrust.org/contact/) | 410-974-2941 | ---

Sponsorship Program - Chesapeake Bay Trust

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