Grant Watch

This week, we’re highlighting new funding opportunities to help communities protect critical resources, support agriculture, and invest in long-term resilience.

Connecticut Opportunities

Now Open! Local Bridge Program (CTDOT) – April–May 2026 Application Window

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Local Bridge Program provides state funding to municipalities for the replacement, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of local bridges.

This program supports critical infrastructure improvements, including safety upgrades and resiliency enhancements. Municipalities are encouraged to prepare projects in advance of the annual application cycle.

The application window is open April 1 through May 31, 2026.

Now Accepting Applications: Clean Water Fund – Financial Assistance for Municipal Wastewater Projects (Connecticut)

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) provides financial assistance to municipalities through the Clean Water Fund (CWF) to support wastewater infrastructure projects that improve water quality and protect public health.

Funding is available as a combination of grants and low-interest loans for projects such as wastewater treatment plant upgrades, sewer system improvements, combined sewer overflow mitigation, and nutrient reduction efforts impacting Long Island Sound.

Eligible applicants include municipalities undertaking wastewater and water pollution control projects. Funding is awarded based on a priority ranking system and project inclusion on the state’s Clean Water Fund Priority List.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with project planning and submissions coordinated through DEEP. Municipalities should allow at least 90 days for review of submitted materials.

Federal Opportunities

Warning Direct from Grants.gov:
“There has been a lapse in appropriated federal funds as of October 1, 2025. Grants.gov will still be available, but service may be delayed with reduced Federal support staff presence. For those programs affected by the funding lapse, the Grants.gov system will accept and store applications until such time as the responsible awarding agency has the authority and funding to return to normal business operations.” 

Now Accepting Applications: Small Surface Water and Groundwater Storage Projects (Small Storage Program) – Deadline April 17, 2026

The U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation is accepting applications for the Small Surface Water and Groundwater Storage Program.

This program provides cost-shared funding to support the planning, design, and construction of water storage projects that improve water supply reliability and resilience. Eligible applicants include state, local, and regional water authorities, municipalities, tribal governments, and water districts located in eligible regions.

Projects must increase water storage capacity or improve water management, with a focus on long-term sustainability and multi-benefit outcomes such as water quality improvements and ecosystem benefits. Funding supports projects with storage capacity between 200 and 30,000 acre-feet, with federal cost-share typically up to 25% of total project costs. Total program funding is approximately $43.5 million.

Applications must be submitted by April 17, 2026 at 4:00 PM MDT.

Florida Opportunities

Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Deadline May 5, 2026

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, established by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, provides federal funding for housing and community development initiatives. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the program includes two components: the Entitlement Program, which funds urban communities directly, and the State Program, which distributes funds to smaller, non-entitlement communities through state agencies.

In Florida, FloridaCommerce administers the State Program through the Small Cities CDBG Program, a competitive grant that awards $18–26 million annually to local governments in rural and small urban areas. CDBG funding supports projects that communities might not otherwise afford and can also help cover administrative capacity.

Eligible projects include water and sewer upgrades, housing rehabilitation, street and sidewalk improvements, economic development initiatives, downtown revitalization, parks and community centers, and stormwater infrastructure improvements.

Applications must be submitted by May 5, 2026.

Maine Opportunities

Future Funding Opportunity to Watch – Maine CDBG Economic Development Program (EDP)

The Maine Office of Community Development will begin accepting Letters of Intent for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Economic Development Program (EDP) starting July 3, 2026 (the first Friday of the month).

This program provides gap funding to municipalities applying on behalf of an identified local business to support the creation or retention of jobs for low- and moderate-income residents. Awards of up to $100,000 may be used for eligible activities such as working capital and capital equipment purchases.

The EDP uses a two-stage application process, beginning with a required Letter of Intent. Following reviews for eligibility and completeness, selected communities may be invited to submit a full application.

Communities considering economic development projects are encouraged to begin planning early to identify eligible businesses, confirm project readiness, and prepare to meet program requirements when the application window opens.

Funding available for Waterfront Communities that are dedicated to investing in infrastructure, access, and long-term waterfront vitality through the Maine Harbor Management and Access Grant.

Award Amounts are up to 75% of total project costs, with a maximum award of $20,000, reimbursement-based with a minimum 25% local match required (not included in the $20,000 cap)

Eligible applicants include: Maine municipalities, unorganized territories, and Counties adjacent to waters governed by the Submerged Lands Program (SLP).

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026 by 5PM
in electronic or hard copy to the ME Bureau of Parks and Lands.

Massachusetts Opportunities

Now Accepting Applications: FY 2026 Drinking Water Supply Protection (DWSP) Grant – Deadline April 13, 2026

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs is now accepting applications for the FY 2026 Drinking Water Supply Protection (DWSP) Grant Program. This program helps municipalities and water districts protect public drinking water supplies by funding the purchase of land or conservation restrictions in water supply protection areas.

Funding covers up to 60% of project costs with a maximum award of $350,000.

Applications are due April 13, 2026.

Now Accepting Applications: Land Conservation Assistance Grant (FY2026) – Deadline April 30, 2026

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is accepting applications for the FY2026 Land Conservation Assistance Grant Program. This program provides financial assistance to municipalities and partner organizations to support land conservation efforts, including grant writing, land transaction support, and Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) development.

Funding reimburses up to 90% of eligible project costs, with awards up to $60,000 per applicant. Eligible activities include appraisal services, legal and survey work, and consultant support to advance permanent land protection and outdoor recreation projects. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.

Applications are due April 30, 2026.

Green Communities Competitive Grant Program (FY26–FY27) – Block 2 Deadline Approaching – April 10, 2026

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) is offering up to $30 million through the Green Communities Competitive Grant Program to support municipal energy efficiency, renewable energy, and decarbonization projects.

This competitive program helps designated Green Communities fund a wide range of initiatives, including energy conservation measures, building decarbonization, electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, LED lighting and streetlights, battery storage, HVAC upgrades, and other innovative clean energy projects.

Eligible municipalities may apply to fund all or a portion of project costs, supporting long-term energy savings, emissions reductions, and sustainability goals.

Eligible Applicants: Designated Massachusetts Green Communities
Funding Focus: Energy efficiency, renewable energy, electrification, and decarbonization
Administered By: MA Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

Upcoming application blocks include:

Block 2 Deadline: April 10, 2026
Block 3 Deadline: October 9, 2026

Now Accepting Applications: FY2027 Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Grant – Deadline December 30, 2026

The Massachusetts State 911 Department is now accepting applications for the FY2027 Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Grant Program. This program provides funding to eligible Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) to support compliance with Emergency Medical Dispatch certification requirements (560 CMR 5.0).

Eligible applicants include primary, regional, and secondary PSAPs, as well as Regional Emergency Communication Centers (RECCs). Funding is provided based on demonstrated need to meet certification standards. The grant period runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, and costs incurred prior to contract execution are not eligible for reimbursement.

Applications are due December 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Unlock Safer Roads Through Smarter Data: Apply for the Massachusetts Traffic Safety Information System Improvements Grant

The Massachusetts Traffic Safety Information System Improvements Grant Program offers a powerful opportunity for organizations to strengthen the data behind critical roadway decisions. With funding ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, this program supports projects that improve how traffic safety information is collected, integrated, and used across the Commonwealth.

Funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this program is designed to help organizations like yours modernize, integrate, and strengthen the core databases that power highway safety decisions across the Commonwealth.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility is limited—but if you qualify, you’re exactly who this program is looking for:

• State and local government agencies in Massachusetts 
• State higher education institutions 
• 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in Massachusetts 

If you’re working at the intersection of data and public safety, you should be seriously considering this.

Key Dates to Know:

Q&A Submission Deadline: April 15, 2026 at 4 PM
Letters of Intent Due: April 24, 2026 at 4 PM
Full Application (AGF) Due: May 13, 2026 at 4 PM 

Coming soon: MassDEP Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grants

Applications open on April 15, 2026, for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s FY26 Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grant program. Submissions will be accepted through May 15, 2026.

Eligible applicants can receive between $3,000 and https://www.mass.gov/doc/2026-reduce-reuse-repair-micro-grant-guidelines/download to support short-term waste reduction projects across Massachusetts. Funded initiatives focus on extending the life of products through donation, sharing, reuse, repair, and rescue.

Since 2019, MassDEP has awarded over $500,000 through this program. Past projects have included electronics refurbishment, mattress recycling programs, and improvements to bulk collection infrastructure—helping communities reduce waste across the Commonwealth.

New Hampshire Opportunities

Transform your Community with the NH Land & Community Heritage Investment Matching Grant Program (LCHIP)

Matching funds between $10,000 to $500,000 to communities and non-profit organizations, supporting their efforts to acquire land or historic resources and rehabilitate historic structures.

Take action now and sign up for the April 23rd informational webinar.

Submit LOI by April 29, 2026.
Ensure your full proposals are submitted by June 17, 2026.

Boosting Recycling Efforts in New Hampshire: Equipment Grant Opportunity – Deadline April 23,2026

Communities across New Hampshire have a valuable opportunity to strengthen their recycling programs through the New Hampshire the Beautiful Recycling Equipment Grant. Designed to support municipalities and solid waste districts, this funding initiative helps offset the cost of essential recycling equipment—making it easier to increase diversion rates and reduce waste.

This grant focuses specifically on capital investments such as balers, crushers, and roll-off containers—tools that directly enhance a community’s ability to process and manage recyclables more efficiently. While funding does not cover land, buildings, or studies, it plays a meaningful role in helping communities upgrade or expand their recycling infrastructure.

Eligible applicants can receive up to 20% of the equipment purchase cost, with awards capped at $5,000. To ensure commitment and sustainability, applicants must already have at least 50% of the project cost secured, excluding other grant funding. Each application is reviewed individually, with final decisions based on available funds and Board evaluation.

With a submission deadline of April 23, 2026, this grant presents a timely opportunity for communities ready to invest in smarter, more effective recycling solutions. By leveraging this support, New Hampshire municipalities can take tangible steps toward cleaner environments and more sustainable waste management systems.

For communities looking to make an impact, now is the time to apply.

New Mexico Opportunities

Funding Opportunity – New Mexico Overflow Sewer Grant (OSG) Program

The New Mexico Construction Programs Bureau administers the Overflow Sewer Grant (OSG) Program, which provides 100% grant funding to support eligible wastewater and sewer infrastructure projects under the framework of Clean Water Act Section 603(c), similar to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). Eligible applicants include municipalities and municipal entities, and funding is limited.

OSG allocations are typically released once per federal fiscal year. To be considered for OSG funding, applicants must complete the FY2026 Clean Water State Revolving Fund application and indicate Overflow Sewer Grant (OSG) as the intended funding source. The State maintains a list of eligible applicants for OSG funding based on submitted CWSRF applications.

Municipalities with sewer and wastewater system improvement needs are encouraged to prepare applications and project materials early in anticipation of the next funding cycle.

ACT NOW and apply for the FY27 New Mexico Destination Forward Grant – Deadline April 14, 2026

The FY27 Destination Forward Grant, offered by the New Mexico Tourism Department, supports tourism-related projects at all stages—from planning to completion. It’s a great opportunity for communities to enhance attractions, infrastructure, and visitor experiences.

Funding allocations are tiered as follows:
Tier I – Ready Projects: Up to $50,000;
Tier II – Growth Projects: $50,000–$250,000;
Tier III – Signature Projects: $250,000. 

Projects may run up to two years, depending on scope.

Eligible applicants include local governments, municipalities, tribal governments, and special districts. Nonprofits must apply with a fiscal agent.

Did you know… The total economic impact of tourism in New Mexico in 2024 was $12 billion of which $8.8 billion was direct spending. In FY26, the Destination Forward Grant allocated $1.9 million funded projects in 13 communities, including accessibility improvements.  

This impactful grant helps bring tourism ideas to life—boosting local economies, improving visitor experiences, and showcasing what makes New Mexico unique.

The deadline is fast approaching. 
Applications must be received by April 14, 2026 (11:59 PM).

Vermont Opportunities

Now Available – Vermont Brownfields Revitalization Fund (State Program)

The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development is accepting applications for the Brownfields Revitalization Fund (BRF) – State Program, which provides funding to support the cleanup and productive reuse of contaminated or underutilized properties. This state-funded program advances economic development, housing, and community revitalization by supporting the implementation of approved Corrective Action Plans (CAPs).

Priority is given to projects that demonstrate readiness, clear community benefit, and the potential for regional or statewide impact. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofits, and for-profit entities with sites in Vermont. Applicants must generally be able to provide a 10% match, enroll on the site in the BRELLA program, and have a CAP approved or pending approval.

This opportunity is currently open with no published deadline, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

We hope that CSS can assist with your grant writing, research, and compliance needs!