Environmental Education Grants Program

Environmental Education Grants Program is sponsored by Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (Department of Environmental Protection). Supports the development of innovative formal and non-formal environmental education projects. Projects provide meaningful hands-on student programs, teacher training workshops, and community conservation projects focused on environmental literacy and actionable problem-solving.

Environmental Education Grants | Department of Environmental Protection | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Environmental Education Grants Each year, Pennsylvania invests in its schools, colleges and universities, county conservation districts, nonprofit organizations and businesses to improve environmental literacy among youth and adults.

</p>\r\n<p>Administered through DEP, the Environmental Education (EE) Grants Program provides funds to support a wide range of environmental education projects including meaningful, hands-on programs for students, teacher training workshops, and community conservation projects for adults.

</p>\r\n"}}"> Each year, Pennsylvania invests in its schools, colleges and universities, county conservation districts, nonprofit organizations and businesses to improve environmental literacy among youth and adults.

Administered through DEP, the Environmental Education (EE) Grants Program provides funds to support a wide range of environmental education projects including meaningful, hands-on programs for students, teacher training workshops, and community conservation projects for adults.

<i>Wildlands Conservancy's "Climate Change in Our Watershed" middle school program, funded with an Environmental Education Grant</i></p>\r\n"}}"> Wildlands Conservancy's "Climate Change in Our Watershed" middle school program, funded with an Environmental Education Grant Environmental Education Grant Awards The Environmental Education Grants Program, established by the Environmental Education Act of 1993, mandates that five percent of all pollution fines and penalties collected annually by the Department of Environmental Protection be set aside for environmental education.

Since its inception the Environmental Education Grants Program has provided more than $16 million to support environmental education throughout Pennsylvania.

</p>\r\n"}}"> The Environmental Education Grants Program, established by the Environmental Education Act of 1993, mandates that five percent of all pollution fines and penalties collected annually by the Department of Environmental Protection be set aside for environmental education.

Since its inception the Environmental Education Grants Program has provided more than $16 million to support environmental education throughout Pennsylvania.

2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Round</h2>\r\n<p>DEP’s Environmental Education Grants Program welcomes applications for the development of innovative formal and non-formal environmental education projects that: 1) Address grant program <i>priorities</i>; 2) Provide opportunities to expand the public’s understanding of Pennsylvania’s environmental issues; and 3) Develop skills required to make informed decisions and take responsible action on behalf of the environment.

</p>\r\n<p>Grant funding is provided on a <b>reimbursement basis</b>. </p>\r\n<p><b>Application Round Opens</b>: October 5, 2026</p>\r\n<p><b>Application Deadline</b>: November 13, 2026</p>\r\n<p><b>2026 Project Period</b>: July 1, 2027 – June 30, 2028</p>\r\n<p><b>Incomplete applications and/or those submitted prior to the opening date or after the deadline will not be considered.

</b></p>\r\n<h2>Apply</h2>\r\n<p>Applications, including a written proposal and required documents, must be submitted electronically through the <a href=\"https://www. esa. dced.

state. pa. us/Login.

aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Keystone Login</a>. First-time users will need to register. Review the 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual carefully before and while developing an application for submission.

</p>\r\n"}}"> 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Round DEP’s Environmental Education Grants Program welcomes applications for the development of innovative formal and non-formal environmental education projects that: 1) Address grant program priorities ; 2) Provide opportunities to expand the public’s understanding of Pennsylvania’s environmental issues; and 3) Develop skills required to make informed decisions and take responsible action on behalf of the environment.

Grant funding is provided on a reimbursement basis . Application Round Opens : October 5, 2026 Application Deadline : November 13, 2026 2026 Project Period : July 1, 2027 – June 30, 2028 Incomplete applications and/or those submitted prior to the opening date or after the deadline will not be considered. Applications, including a written proposal and required documents, must be submitted electronically through the Keystone Login .

First-time users will need to register. Review the 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual carefully before and while developing an application for submission. Application Instructions (PDF) 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Applicant Open House</h2>\r\n<p>DEP's Environmental Education will hold a 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Applicant Open House on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from noon until 1:00 p.

m. </p>\r\n<p>The intent of the Open House is to provide applicants with an opportunity to get their more complex and situational questions answered by DEP Environmental Education staff. For standard questions, applicants are encouraged to watch the webinar below, view the <a href=\"#2027GI\" target=\"_self\">2027 Grant Information section</a> of this webpage, or visit the Keystone Grant Application site and its associated instructions.

</p>\r\n"}}"> 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Applicant Open House DEP's Environmental Education will hold a 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Applicant Open House on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from noon until 1:00 p. m. The intent of the Open House is to provide applicants with an opportunity to get their more complex and situational questions answered by DEP Environmental Education staff.

For standard questions, applicants are encouraged to watch the webinar below, view the 2027 Grant Information section of this webpage, or visit the Keystone Grant Application site and its associated instructions.

Click Here to Register for the 2027 EE Grants Program Applicant Open House 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Webinar (October 13, 2026) This presentation provides an overview of the 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program, its application instructions, and tips for applying. <b><a id=\"2027GI\"></a>2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual</b></h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=11190448&DocName=2027%20ENVIRONMENTAL%20EDUCATION%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20MANUAL.

PDF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2><b>2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Eligibility</b></h2>\r\n<h3><b>Eligible Applicants</b></h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Public schools and school districts (PreK-12), including intermediate units and charter schools<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Incorporated private schools (under limited circumstances, private religious schools may be exempted from the incorporation requirement)<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Incorporated conservation and education organizations and institutions<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Universities and colleges<b></b></li>\r\n<li>County conservation districts<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Incorporated nonprofit organizations<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Businesses (must be registered to do business in PA)<b></b></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Ineligible Applicants</b></h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Entities that do not appear on th list of Eligible Applicants cannot receive 2027 Environmental Education Program funds.

Ineligible applicants such as municipalities are encouraged to partner with an eligible applicant to deliver environmental education programs. </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><b>NOTE: </b>Applicants previously awarded a DEP EE Grant but failed to meet their contractual obligations may be deemed ineligible to receive 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program funds.

</p>\r\n<h2><b>2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Funding Priorities</b></h2>\r\n<p>Projects <b>must</b> address one or more program priorities: Land Use, Air Quality, Water, and/or Climate Change. Please refer to the 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual for examples of projects relevant to each category.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Land Use</b></h3>\r\n<p>Land use project will expand audience understanding of environmental contamination, remediation, and brownfield re-development to make informed decisions that protect human health, leverage relationships with local governments and businesses, and effectively engage the community in acting.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Air Quality</b></h3>\r\n<p>Air quality projects will expand audience understanding of air pollution, the Air Quality Index (AQI), and potential threats to human health to identify when and what actions should be taken in the event of unhealthy air quality.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Water</b></h3>\r\n<p>Water quality projects will expand audience understanding of watersheds to identify and address non-point source and point source water pollution.

Projects may emphasize subjects such as stormwater management, soil and water conservation, groundwater, agricultural nutrient management, abandoned mine drainage/reclamation, private water wells, road treatment, water quality monitoring, riparian buffers, and cold-water habitats.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Climate Change</b></h3>\r\n<p>Climate change projects will expand audience understanding of the human behavior/climate change relationship, identify and adopt practical solutions to develop resiliency against extreme weather, pests, disease, agricultural disruptions, groundwater changes, and other climate change influenced threats to human and environmental health.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Environmental Justice</b></h3>\r\n<p>Programs should be designed to meaningfully engage people of all demographics who live, work, recreate, and/or attend school within Environmental Justice areas.

Strong proposals will demonstrate established and developing relationships with trusted local organizations or leaders and an understanding of local needs and include community input and support in project design and implementation. </p>\r\n<p>Use the DEP <a href=\"https://gis. dep.

pa. gov/PennEnviroScreen/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">PennEnvironScreen</a> to verify an audience is located within an EJ area. </p>\r\n<h2><b>Grant Award Amounts</b></h2>\r\n<p>DEP EE Grants Program Award Tracks are structurally designed to encourage capacity and sustainability growth and development.

The three (3) award tracks are available for projects:</p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><b>Seed Grant (up to $5,000)</b> may be awarded for local (school, county, partnering municipality, or other defined area) environmental education projects.

</li>\r\n<li><b>Grow Grant ($5,001 - $30,000) </b>may be awarded for implementation of large-scale environmental education projects, such as school district-wide projects, multiple community or county collaborations, countywide, regional, or statewide projects.

</li>\r\n<li><b>Impact Grant ($30,001 - $65,000) </b>may be awarded as a first-time project or for previously awarded DEP EE Grants project(s) for capacity and sustainability development. These projects must engage a broad-scale audience at <i>county, regional, <b>and </b>state levels</i>. </li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2><b>Required Application Documents</b></h2>\r\n<p>This list is an overview of required materials.

Please review to the 2027 EE Grants Manual for more details and further guidance. </p>\r\n<p><b>All applications must include the following:</b></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Project Narrative</li>\r\n<li>Project Proposal</li>\r\n<li>Scope of Work</li>\r\n<li>Detailed Budget Sheet</li>\r\n<li>Letter(s) of Commitment</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Project Narrative</b></h3>\r\n<p>The project narrative is a brief overview of the project.

This includes the Name of the Applying Organization and Project Title; a brief project summary not to exceed three to four sentences; and a summary of project outcomes addressing anticipated audience behavior and/or knowledge change and overall project accomplishments aligned with DEP priority area(s).

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Project Proposal</b></h3>\r\n<p>A written proposal describing key project elements such as a complete description of the project; credentials of the applying organization and key staff; targeted audience; priority area(s) addressed; project activities and anticipated outcomes; and inclusion of PA Academic Standards and/or best management practices. </p>\r\n<p>This is not a comprehensive list of all proposal elements.

Please see the 2027 EE Grants Manual for more details. </p>\r\n<h3><b>Scope of Work</b></h3>\r\n<p>The Sope of Work is the project work plan. The Scope of Work standardized form must be fully completed to describe project benchmarks and target dates of completion.

</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument?

docId=11161473&DocName=2027%20SCOPE%20OF%20WORK%20INSTRUCTIONS. PDF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scope of Work Instructions</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=11147702&DocName=2027%20SCOPE%20OF%20WORK. DOCX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scope of Work Form</a> (DOCX)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Detailed Budget Sheet</b></h3>\r\n<p>The Detailed Budget Sheet reflects costs necessary to implement the Scope of Work.

Expense categories include People, Travel, Resources, Other, and Match. All costs must be itemized. Carefully follow the instructions listed on the form.

</p>\r\n<p><b>NOTE: </b>All grants require Match (cash and/or in-kind) in some amount. Seed Grants require Match in <i>any </i>amount, but Match equivalent to at least 20% is encouraged. Grow and Impact Grants <b><i>require </i></b>a minimum of 20% match of the requested grant fund amount.

Likewise, partnerships are encouraged but not required for Seed Grants. Partnerships are <b><i>required </i></b>for Grow and Impact Grants. </p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport.

pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=11149982&DocName=2027%20EE%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20DETAILED%20BUDGET%20SHEET%20AND%20INSTRUCTIONS.

XLSX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Detailed Budget Sheet</a> (XLSX)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Letter(s) of Commitment</b></h3>\r\n<p>Signed Letters of Commitment are required from the applying organization and/or Partner(s) substantiating project match. </p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=11147792&DocName=EE%20GRANT%20PROGRAM%20LETTER%20OF%20COMMITMENT%20INSTRUCTIONS.

PDF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Letter of Commitment Instructions</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Other 2027 Environmental Education Grant Forms</h2>\r\n"}}"> 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual (PDF) 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Eligibility Public schools and school districts (PreK-12), including intermediate units and charter schools Incorporated private schools (under limited circumstances, private religious schools may be exempted from the incorporation requirement) Incorporated conservation and education organizations and institutions Universities and colleges County conservation districts Incorporated nonprofit organizations Businesses (must be registered to do business in PA) Entities that do not appear on th list of Eligible Applicants cannot receive 2027 Environmental Education Program funds.

Ineligible applicants such as municipalities are encouraged to partner with an eligible applicant to deliver environmental education programs. NOTE: Applicants previously awarded a DEP EE Grant but failed to meet their contractual obligations may be deemed ineligible to receive 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program funds.

2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Funding Priorities Projects must address one or more program priorities: Land Use, Air Quality, Water, and/or Climate Change. Please refer to the 2027 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual for examples of projects relevant to each category.

Land use project will expand audience understanding of environmental contamination, remediation, and brownfield re-development to make informed decisions that protect human health, leverage relationships with local governments and businesses, and effectively engage the community in acting.

Air quality projects will expand audience understanding of air pollution, the Air Quality Index (AQI), and potential threats to human health to identify when and what actions should be taken in the event of unhealthy air quality. Water quality projects will expand audience understanding of watersheds to identify and address non-point source and point source water pollution.

Projects may emphasize subjects such as stormwater management, soil and water conservation, groundwater, agricultural nutrient management, abandoned mine drainage/reclamation, private water wells, road treatment, water quality monitoring, riparian buffers, and cold-water habitats.

Climate change projects will expand audience understanding of the human behavior/climate change relationship, identify and adopt practical solutions to develop resiliency against extreme weather, pests, disease, agricultural disruptions, groundwater changes, and other climate change influenced threats to human and environmental health.

Programs should be designed to meaningfully engage people of all demographics who live, work, recreate, and/or attend school within Environmental Justice areas. Strong proposals will demonstrate established and developing relationships with trusted local organizations or leaders and an understanding of local needs and include community input and support in project design and implementation.

Use the DEP PennEnvironScreen to verify an audience is located within an EJ area. DEP EE Grants Program Award Tracks are structurally designed to encourage capacity and sustainability growth and development. The three (3) award tracks are available for projects: Seed Grant (up to $5,000) may be awarded for local (school, county, partnering municipality, or other defined area) environmental education projects.

Grow Grant ($5,001 - $30,000) may be awarded for implementation of large-scale environmental education projects, such as school district-wide projects, multiple community or county collaborations, countywide, regional, or statewide projects. Impact Grant ($30,001 - $65,000) may be awarded as a first-time project or for previously awarded DEP EE Grants project(s) for capacity and sustainability development.

These projects must engage a broad-scale audience at county, regional, and state levels . Required Application Documents This list is an overview of required materials. Please review to the 2027 EE Grants Manual for more details and further guidance.

All applications must include the following: The project narrative is a brief overview of the project. This includes the Name of the Applying Organization and Project Title; a brief project summary not to exceed three to four sentences; and a summary of project outcomes addressing anticipated audience behavior and/or knowledge change and overall project accomplishments aligned with DEP priority area(s).

A written proposal describing key project elements such as a complete description of the project; credentials of the applying organization and key staff; targeted audience; priority area(s) addressed; project activities and anticipated outcomes; and inclusion of PA Academic Standards and/or best management practices. This is not a comprehensive list of all proposal elements. Please see the 2027 EE Grants Manual for more details.

The Sope of Work is the project work plan. The Scope of Work standardized form must be fully completed to describe project benchmarks and target dates of completion. Scope of Work Instructions (PDF) Scope of Work Form (DOCX) The Detailed Budget Sheet reflects costs necessary to implement the Scope of Work.

Expense categories include People, Travel, Resources, Other, and Match. All costs must be itemized. Carefully follow the instructions listed on the form.

NOTE: All grants require Match (cash and/or in-kind) in some amount. Seed Grants require Match in any amount, but Match equivalent to at least 20% is encouraged. Grow and Impact Grants require a minimum of 20% match of the requested grant fund amount.

Likewise, partnerships are encouraged but not required for Seed Grants. Partnerships are required for Grow and Impact Grants. Detailed Budget Sheet (XLSX) Signed Letters of Commitment are required from the applying organization and/or Partner(s) substantiating project match.

Letter of Commitment Instructions (PDF) Other 2027 Environmental Education Grant Forms Midterm Progress Report (DOCX) Reimbursement Request Form (XLSX) Reimbursement Request Form Instructions (PDF) <b>2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual</b></h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument?

docId=9913061&DocName=2026%20ENVIRONMENTAL%20EDUCATION%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20MANUAL.

PDF%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E(NEW)%3C%2Fspan%3E%208%2F13%2F2027\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2><b>2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Eligibility</b></h2>\r\n<h3><b>Eligible Applicants</b></h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Public schools and school districts (PreK-12), including intermediate units and charter schools<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Incorporated private schools (under limited circumstances, private religious schools may be exempted from the incorporation requirement)<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Incorporated conservation and education organizations and institutions<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Universities and colleges<b></b></li>\r\n<li>County conservation districts<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Incorporated nonprofit organizations<b></b></li>\r\n<li>Businesses (must be registered to do business in PA)<b></b></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Ineligible Applicants</b></h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Entities that do not appear on th list of Eligible Applicants cannot receive 2026 Environmental Education Program funds.

Ineligible applicants such as municipalities are encouraged to partner with an eligible applicant to deliver environmental education programs. </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><b>NOTE: </b>Applicants that were previously awarded a DEP EE Grant but failed to meet their contractual obligations may be deemed ineligible to receive 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program funds.

</p>\r\n<h2><b>2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Funding Priorities</b></h2>\r\n<p>Projects must address one or more program priorities: Land Use, Air Quality, Water, Climate Change, and/or Environmental Justice. Please refer to the 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual for examples of projects relevant to each category.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Land Use</b></h3>\r\n<p>Land use project will expand audience understanding of environmental contamination, remediation, and brownfields re-development to make informed decisions that protect human health, leverage relationships with local governments and businesses, and effectively engage the community in acting.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Air Quality</b></h3>\r\n<p>Air quality projects will expand audience understanding of air pollution, the Air Quality Index (AQI), and potential threats to human health to identify when and what actions should be taken in the event of unhealthy air quality.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Water</b></h3>\r\n<p>Water quality projects will expand audience understanding of water sheds to identify and address non-point source and point source water pollution.

Projects may emphasize subjects such as stormwater management, soil and water conservation, groundwater, agricultural nutrient management, abandoned mine drainage/reclamation, private water wells, road treatment, water quality monitoring, riparian buffers, and cold-water habitats.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Climate Change</b></h3>\r\n<p>Climate change projects will expand audience understanding of the human behavior/climate change relationship, identify and adopt practical solutions to develop resiliency against extreme weather, pests, disease, agricultural disruptions, groundwater changes, and other climate change influenced threats to human and environmental health.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Environmental Justice</b></h3>\r\n<p>Programs funded under this priority should be designed to meaningfully engage people of all demographics who live, work, recreate, or attend school within Environmental Justice areas. Strong proposals will demonstrate an understanding of local needs, include community input in project design, and, where possible, partner with trusted local organizations or leaders.

Use the DEP <a href=\"https://gis. dep. pa.

gov/PennEnviroScreen/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">PennEnvironScreen</a> to verify an audience is located within an EJ area. </p>\r\n<h2><b>Grant Award Amounts</b></h2>\r\n<p>DEP EE Grants Program Award Tracks are structurally designed to encourage capacity and sustainability growth and development.

The three (3) award tracks are available for projects:</p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><b>Seed Grant (up to $5,000)</b> may be awarded for local (school, county, partnering municipality, or other defined area) environmental education projects.

</li>\r\n<li><b>Grow Grant ($5,001 - $30,000) </b>may be awarded for implementation of large-scale environmental education projects, such as school district-wide projects, multiple community or county collaborations, countywide, regional, or statewide projects.

</li>\r\n<li><b>Impact Grant ($30,001 - $65,000) </b>may be awarded as a first-time project or for previously awarded DEP EE Grants project(s) for capacity and sustainability development. These projects should allow for broad-scale audience engagement at three (3) different levels: <i>county, regional, <b>and </b>state</i>.

</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2><b>Required Application Documents</b></h2>\r\n<p>This list is an overview of required materials. Please review to the 2026 EE Grants Manual for more detail and further guidance.

</p>\r\n<p><b>All applications must include the following:</b></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Project Narrative</li>\r\n<li>Project Proposal</li>\r\n<li>Scope of Work</li>\r\n<li>Detailed Budget Sheet</li>\r\n<li>Letter(s) of Commitment</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Project Narrative</b></h3>\r\n<p>The project narrative is a brief overview of the project.

This includes the Name of the Applying Organization and Project Title; a brief project summary not to exceed 3-4 sentences; and a summary of project outcomes addressing anticipated audience behavior change and overall project accomplishments.

</p>\r\n<h3><b>Project Proposal</b></h3>\r\n<p>A written proposal describing key project elements such as a complete description of the project; credentials of the applying organization and key staff; targeted audience; priority area(s) addressed; project activities and anticipated outcomes; and inclusion of PA Academic Standards. </p>\r\n<p>This is not a comprehensive list of all proposal elements.

Please see the 2026 EE Grants Manual for more detail. </p>\r\n<h3><b>Scope of Work</b></h3>\r\n<p>The Sope of Work is the project work plan. The Scope of Work form must be filled out thoroughly and completely to describe project benchmarks and target dates of completion.

</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument?

docId=9885865&DocName=2026%20ENVIRONMENTAL%20EDUCATION%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20SCOPE%20OF%20WORK%20INSTRUCTIONS. PDF%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scope of Work Instructions</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=9917724&DocName=2026%20ENVIRONMENTAL%20EDUCATION%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20SCOPE%20OF%20WORK.

DOCX%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E(NEW)%3C%2Fspan%3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scope of Work Form</a> (DOCX)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Detailed Budget Sheet</b></h3>\r\n<p>The Detailed Budget Sheet reflects costs necessary to implement the Scope of Work. Expense categories include People, Travel, Resources, Other, and Match.

All costs must be itemized. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions listed on the form. </p>\r\n<p><b>NOTE: </b>All grants require Match (cash and/or in-kind) in some amount.

Seed Grants require Match in <i>any </i>amount, but Match equivalent to at least 20% is encouraged. Grow and Impact Grants <b><i>require </i></b>a minimum of 20% match of the requested amount of grant funds. Likewise, partnerships are encouraged but not required for Seed Grants.

Partnerships are <b><i>required </i></b>for Grow and Impact Grants. </p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=9840357&DocName=EE%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20DETAILED%20BUDGET%20SHEET.

XLSX%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E(NEW)%3C%2Fspan%3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Detailed Budget Sheet</a> (XLSX)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><b>Letter(s) of Commitment</b></h3>\r\n<p>Signed Letters of Commitment are required from the applying organization and/or Partner(s) substantiating project match.

</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument?

docId=9932320&DocName=EE%20GRANT%20PROGRAM%20LETTER%20OF%20COMMITMENT%20INSTRUCTIONS.

PDF%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E(NEW)%3C%2Fspan%3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Letter of Commitment Instructions</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Other 2026 Environmental Education Grant Forms</h2>\r\n"}}"> 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual (PDF) 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Eligibility Public schools and school districts (PreK-12), including intermediate units and charter schools Incorporated private schools (under limited circumstances, private religious schools may be exempted from the incorporation requirement) Incorporated conservation and education organizations and institutions Universities and colleges County conservation districts Incorporated nonprofit organizations Businesses (must be registered to do business in PA) Entities that do not appear on th list of Eligible Applicants cannot receive 2026 Environmental Education Program funds.

Ineligible applicants such as municipalities are encouraged to partner with an eligible applicant to deliver environmental education programs. NOTE: Applicants that were previously awarded a DEP EE Grant but failed to meet their contractual obligations may be deemed ineligible to receive 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program funds.

2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Funding Priorities Projects must address one or more program priorities: Land Use, Air Quality, Water, Climate Change, and/or Environmental Justice. Please refer to the 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual for examples of projects relevant to each category.

Land use project will expand audience understanding of environmental contamination, remediation, and brownfields re-development to make informed decisions that protect human health, leverage relationships with local governments and businesses, and effectively engage the community in acting.

Air quality projects will expand audience understanding of air pollution, the Air Quality Index (AQI), and potential threats to human health to identify when and what actions should be taken in the event of unhealthy air quality. Water quality projects will expand audience understanding of water sheds to identify and address non-point source and point source water pollution.

Projects may emphasize subjects such as stormwater management, soil and water conservation, groundwater, agricultural nutrient management, abandoned mine drainage/reclamation, private water wells, road treatment, water quality monitoring, riparian buffers, and cold-water habitats.

Climate change projects will expand audience understanding of the human behavior/climate change relationship, identify and adopt practical solutions to develop resiliency against extreme weather, pests, disease, agricultural disruptions, groundwater changes, and other climate change influenced threats to human and environmental health.

Programs funded under this priority should be designed to meaningfully engage people of all demographics who live, work, recreate, or attend school within Environmental Justice areas. Strong proposals will demonstrate an understanding of local needs, include community input in project design, and, where possible, partner with trusted local organizations or leaders.

Use the DEP PennEnvironScreen to verify an audience is located within an EJ area. DEP EE Grants Program Award Tracks are structurally designed to encourage capacity and sustainability growth and development. The three (3) award tracks are available for projects: Seed Grant (up to $5,000) may be awarded for local (school, county, partnering municipality, or other defined area) environmental education projects.

Grow Grant ($5,001 - $30,000) may be awarded for implementation of large-scale environmental education projects, such as school district-wide projects, multiple community or county collaborations, countywide, regional, or statewide projects. Impact Grant ($30,001 - $65,000) may be awarded as a first-time project or for previously awarded DEP EE Grants project(s) for capacity and sustainability development.

These projects should allow for broad-scale audience engagement at three (3) different levels: county, regional, and state . Required Application Documents This list is an overview of required materials. Please review to the 2026 EE Grants Manual for more detail and further guidance.

All applications must include the following: The project narrative is a brief overview of the project. This includes the Name of the Applying Organization and Project Title; a brief project summary not to exceed 3-4 sentences; and a summary of project outcomes addressing anticipated audience behavior change and overall project accomplishments.

A written proposal describing key project elements such as a complete description of the project; credentials of the applying organization and key staff; targeted audience; priority area(s) addressed; project activities and anticipated outcomes; and inclusion of PA Academic Standards. This is not a comprehensive list of all proposal elements. Please see the 2026 EE Grants Manual for more detail.

The Sope of Work is the project work plan. The Scope of Work form must be filled out thoroughly and completely to describe project benchmarks and target dates of completion. Scope of Work Instructions (PDF) Scope of Work Form (DOCX) The Detailed Budget Sheet reflects costs necessary to implement the Scope of Work.

Expense categories include People, Travel, Resources, Other, and Match. All costs must be itemized. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions listed on the form.

NOTE: All grants require Match (cash and/or in-kind) in some amount. Seed Grants require Match in any amount, but Match equivalent to at least 20% is encouraged. Grow and Impact Grants require a minimum of 20% match of the requested amount of grant funds.

Likewise, partnerships are encouraged but not required for Seed Grants. Partnerships are required for Grow and Impact Grants. Detailed Budget Sheet (XLSX) Signed Letters of Commitment are required from the applying organization and/or Partner(s) substantiating project match.

Letter of Commitment Instructions (PDF) Other 2026 Environmental Education Grant Forms Midterm Progress Report (DOCX) Reimbursement Request Form (XLSX) Reimbursement Request Form Instructions (PDF) 2026 Environmental Education Grants Program Webinar 2025 Environmental Education Grants Program Webinar - October 10, 2024</h2>\r\n<p><a href=\"https://files. dep. state.

pa. us/EnvironmentalEd/Webinars/2025%20EE%20Grant%20Programs%20Webinar%20. mp4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">The session has been recorded and can be viewed here​</a>​</p>\r\n<p>During the webinar, DEP staff provided an overview of the 2025 Environmental Education Grants Program including project proposal tips and instructions for completing the required forms.

The program concluded with a Q&A session. </p>\r\n<h2>2025 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual</h2>\r\n<p><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=8541238&DocName=2025%20ENVIRONMENTAL%20EDUCATION%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20MANUAL.

PDF%20%20%3cspan%20style%3D%22color:green%3b%22%3e%3c/span%3e%20%3cspan%20style%3D%22color:blue%3b%22%3e%28NEW%29%3c/span%3e%207/3/2026\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">2025 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual​</a> (PDF)</p>\r\n<h2>Required Application Documents</h2>\r\n<p><b>Please refer to the 2025 EE Grants Manual for guidance​.

</b></p>\r\n<p><b>Applications must include the following:</b> 1) Project Proposal; 2) Scope of Work; 3) Detailed Budget Sheet; and 4) Letter(s) of Commitment. Applications that fail to provide all required documents will be considered incomplete and ineligible for EE Grant Program funding.

</p>\r\n<h3>​​Project Proposal</h3>\r\n<p>A written proposal describing key project elements including the EE Grant Program Priorities, intended audience(s), anticipated project outcome(s), project assessment and a plan to sustain the project after grant funds expire.

</p>\r\n<h3>Scope of Work</h3>\r\n<p>A form reflecting the project benchmarks (major tasks to be completed), submitted in a sequential timeline, by anticipated target date of completion. </p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa.

gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=8361574&DocName=2025%20ATTACHMENT%20D%20SCOPE%20OF%20WORK%20INSTRUCTIONS. PDF%20%20%3cspan%20style%3D%22color:green%3b%22%3e%3c/span%3e%20%3cspan%20style%3D%22color:blue%3b%22%3e%28NEW%29%3c/span%3e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scope of Work Ins​tructions</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport.

pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=8361633&DocName=2025%20ATTACHMENT%20D%20SCOPE%20OF%20WORK.

DOCX%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scope of Work form</a><br>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Detailed Budget<br>\r\n</h3>\r\n<p>A form reflecting eligible grant expenses, needed to complete the Scope of Work benchmarks, including People, Travel, Resource and Other costs and Match (Cash or In-Kind).

General Grants require a 20% Match. Mini-Grants require​​Match in any amount; 20% Match is encouraged. </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https://greenport.

pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument? docId=8406123&DocName=EE%20GRANTS%20PROGRAM%20DETAILED%20BUDGET%20SHEET.

XLSX%20%20%3cspan%20style%3D%22color:green%3b%22%3e%3c/span%3e%20%3cspan%20style%3D%22color:blue%3b%22%3e%28NEW%29%3c/span%3e\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Grant Detailed Budget Sheet</a> (Excel)</p>\r\n<h3>Letters of Commitment</h3>\r\n<p>Signed Letters of Commitment are required from the applying organization and/or Partner(s) substantiating project Match. General Grants require Project Partners.

</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https://greenport. pa. gov/elibrary/GetDocument?

docId=9932320&DocName=EE%20GRANT%20PROGRAM%20LETTER%20OF%20COMMITMENT%20INSTRUCTIONS.

PDF%20%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Agreen%3B%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%20%3Cspan%20style%3D%22color%3Ablue%3B%22%3E(NEW)%3C%2Fspan%3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Letter of Commitment Instructions</a> (PDF)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>General questions about the Environmental Education Grants Program may be directed to: <a href=\"mailto:RA-epEEgrants@pa. gov\">RA-epEEgrants@pa.

gov</a><br>\r\n</p>\r\n<h2>Environmental Education Grant Program Priorities</h2>\r\n<p>Projects must address one or more program priorities: Water, Climate Change, and Environmental Justice. </p>\r\n<h3>Water</h3>\r\n<p>Education programs promoting effective ways to reduce non-point source and source water pollution to improve water quality.

</p>\r\n<h3>Climate Change</h3>\r\n<p>Education projects that promote practical solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the negative impacts of climate change including floods, changes to groundwater, pests, disease, agricultural disruptions, and potential threats to human health.

</p>\r\n<h3>Environmental Justice</h3>\r\n<p>Education programs designed to engage audiences (youth and/or adults) living and/or working within Environmental Justice (EJ) areas. Use the DEP <a href=\"https://gis. dep.

pa. gov/PennEnviroScreen/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">PennEnviroScreen</a> to verify an audience is located within an Environmental Justice area.

​<br>\r\n</p>\r\n<h3>Grant Award Amounts</h3>\r\n<p>Funding is available for Non-formal education (projects outside of the formal, PreK-12 school/higher education setting) or Formal education (projects integrated into the formal, PreK-12 school/higher education curriculums).

Two types of awards are available:</p>\r\n<p><b>Mini Grants</b> of up to $5,000 may be awarded for local (school, county, municipality or other defined area) environmental education projects. Mini-grants are strongly encouraged, but not required, to form project partnerships and include a project match (Cash or In-Kind).

</p>\r\n<p><b>General Grants</b>: - <i>General grants are offered at two funding levels:</i></p>\r\n<p><b>General Grants (Level I): From $5,001 up to $30,000</b> may be awarded for implementation of large-scale, regional and/or statewide environmental education projects.

</p>\r\n<p><b>General Grants (Level II): From $30,001 to $65,000</b> may be awarded for non-formal environmental education programs designed to widely* engage teachers and youth at the county, state and national levels. <i>(*Teachers and students from at least 60 Pennsylvania counties must directly participate in the project).

</i> Additionally, the project must demonstrate that at least 30% of program participants are community members of an Environmental Justice Area.

</p>\r\n<h2>Other 2025 Environmental Education Grant Forms</h2>\r\n"}}"> 2025 Environmental Education Grants Program Webinar - October 10, 2024 The session has been recorded and can be viewed here​ ​ During the webinar, DEP staff provided an overview of the 2025 Environmental Education Grants Program including project proposal tips and instructions for completing the required forms. The program concluded with a Q&A session.

2025 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual 2025 Environmental Education Grants Program Manual​ (PDF) Required Application Documents Please refer to the 2025 EE Grants Manual for guidance​. Applications must include the following: 1) Project Proposal; 2) Scope of Work; 3) Detailed Budget Sheet; and 4) Letter(s) of Commitment.

Applications that fail to provide all required documents will be considered incomplete and ineligible for EE Grant Program funding. A written proposal describing key project elements including the EE Grant Program Priorities, intended audience(s), anticipated project outcome(s), project assessment and a plan to sustain the project after grant funds expire.

A form reflecting the project benchmarks (major tasks to be completed), submitted in a sequential timeline, by anticipated target date of completion. Scope of Work Ins​tructions (PDF) A form reflecting eligible grant expenses, needed to complete the Scope of Work benchmarks, including People, Travel, Resource and Other costs and Match (Cash or In-Kind). General Grants require a 20% Match.

Mini-Grants require​​Match in any amount; 20% Match is encouraged. Grant Detailed Budget Sheet (Excel) Signed Letters of Commitment are required from the applying organization and/or Partner(s) substantiating project Match. General Grants