Provider
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service
Application Deadline
March 26, 2026
Summary
The purpose of the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF) to conserve, restore, and connect people with fish and wildlife habitat in the Delaware River watershed. The DWCF will award grants of $75,000 to $1,500,000 each to conserve, restore, and protect habitats on public and private land, across rural, urban, and Tribal areas, that contribute to the overall health of the Delaware River watershed—as well as benefit the quality of life and economic vitality of the communities in the Delaware River watershed.
Eligible Applicants:
- Non-profit organizations
- Federal, state, interstate and local government
- Tribal governments and organizations
- Educational institutions
1:1 matching contributions are strongly encouraged but not required for this funding opportunity. The amount of matching funds offered is one criterion considered during the review process, and projects that offer match from Non-Federal sources will be more competitive.
Projects must have a start date after July 1, 2026. Projects must be ready to begin within six months of the grant award and be completed within a three-year period of performance.
Common Eligible Projects
In 2026, NFWF will award DWCF grants in four grant categories including: Implementation Grants; Capacity Building Grants; Planning Grants; and Research, Monitoring & Evaluation Grants. These grants will be awarded to implement voluntary, on-the-ground restoration, conservation, and community engagement projects that achieve the goals of the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program Framework to:
- Sustain and enhance fish and wildlife habitat;
- Improve and maintain water quality for fish, wildlife, and people;
- Sustain and enhance water management to benefit fish and wildlife; and
- Improve outdoor recreational opportunities.
