As of March 2026, FWS staff have advised that the solicitation of 2026 NAWCA Small Grant proposals has been delayed, but the program is still active.

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s North American Wetlands Conservation Act Small Grants Program is a competitive grant program that supports public-private partnerships to advance projects that further the goals of NAWCA. Projects must advance long-term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands habitat for the benefit of all wetland-associated migratory birds. Grant requests may not exceed $250,000.

Eligible Uses

Funds may be used for wetland restoration, wetland enhancement, wetland establishment, or other long-term wetland conservation work as well as acquisition. A summary of eligible projects can be found in NAWCA’s Small Grants Eligibility Criteria & Processes is available here.

Eligible Recipients

Non-profit organizations, for-profit businesses, and individuals are all eligible recipients.

Approx Annual Funding Amount

Varies. The North American Wetlands Conservation Fund typically receives $30-40 million in funding each year.

Cost Share Requirements

There is a 50% federal/50% non-federal match (a 1:1 ratio) and grant requests may not exceed $250,000.

Application Cycle

The application deadline is typically in October.

Contact

Rodecia McKnight or Anya Rushing