The Zoos, Botanical Gardens and Aquaria Operational Support Grant Program funds New York institutions to maintain natural collections and deliver science-based public education, backed by the NYS Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Funder: New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (projected)
Funding Amounts: New awardees: up to $15,000/year or one-third of the NHC operating budget, whichever is less; annual funding, 3-year contract; no match required.
Summary: Annual operational support for eligible zoos, botanical gardens, and aquaria in New York State to maintain collections and deliver educational programming.
Key Information: Forecasted grant—dates and details may shift; funding is reimbursement-based.
This program provides annual operational support to local governments and not-for-profit organizations operating zoos, botanical gardens, aquaria, and similar institutions in New York State. The goal is to help eligible organizations maintain, operate, and secure permanent collections of natural specimens (Natural Heritage Collections, or NHCs) and to support robust educational programming that interprets these collections for the public. Funding is provided through the New York State Environmental Protection Fund and administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). Awards are made on a reimbursement basis for eligible expenses.