Illinois Grant Programs for Conservation and Recreation
GrantID: 854
Grant Funding Amount Low: $100,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
In the state of Illinois, a range of grant funding opportunities is available to support conservation, outdoor recreation, habitat protection, and community-based natural resource initiatives. These programs are generally designed to strengthen environmental stewardship and expand public access to parks, open space, waterways, and historic resources throughout urban and rural areas of the state.
Funding is typically available to units of local government, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, conservation groups, and in certain cases volunteer fire departments. Most programs operate on a reimbursement or matching basis and are intended to assist with land acquisition, park development, trail construction, boating access improvements, and restoration of natural habitats. Individual awards for larger capital and land development projects can reach up to approximately $750,000, often covering a portion of total eligible costs.
Additional competitive funding opportunities provide mid-range awards, generally between $75,000 and $250,000, for projects that promote shoreline protection, habitat enhancement, public access improvements, and community resilience in designated regions of the state. Smaller grant categories may offer up to $20,000 to support wildlife conservation, habitat management, and environmental education efforts led by nonprofit or community-based organizations.
Volunteer fire departments in rural communities may also qualify for assistance of up to $10,000 to help offset costs related to equipment, training, and wildfire preparedness activities. Educational initiatives focused on biodiversity, conservation awareness, and student engagement in outdoor learning may receive more modest awards intended to expand environmental literacy and field-based experiences.
Across all funding categories, the primary intent of use for these grants is to preserve natural resources, improve recreational infrastructure, enhance public safety related to natural hazards, and promote sustainable environmental practices. Eligible applicants must operate within Illinois, and funding is generally targeted toward projects that demonstrate measurable community benefit and long-term environmental impact.
To find more grants, go to The Grant Portal and use the Search Grant tool to find your next grant.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
