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Federal Closing soon GRANTS-GOV-361315

2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program

Forest Service (USDA) · Competitive · Science & Technology

At a glance

2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program is a federal competitive grant from Forest Service for the science & technology sector. Funding is $200K–$750K. Eligible applicants: Special district governments; Independent school districts; County governments; State governments; Public and State controlled institutions of higher education; Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other th. The application deadline is October 12, 2026. Apply via the official listing at www.grants.gov.

Amount
$200K–$750K
Deadline
Oct 12, 2026
Type
Competitive
Status
Closing soon

About this program

The intent of the National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share grant program is to advance solutions to the economic, health, and environmental challenges faced by communities. This year’s program focuses on advancing community tree resource utilization, which can reduce waste and create value by turning wood generated from pruning, removals, storm events, and pest or disease outbreaks into useful products. These products may include lumber, slabs, furniture, flooring, biochar, or other materials that strengthen local economies, reduce disposal costs, and improve community resilience. The program seeks practical, creative, and replicable projects that help communities establish or expand wood‑utilization efforts. Competitive proposals will demonstrate how the project supports existing community forestry plans, applies industry‑recognized safety and tree‑care standards, and delivers clear economic, environmental, or workforce benefits. Projects should outline anticipated wood products, partnerships with professional or industry organizations, and opportunities for job creation, training, or certification. This program is intended for communities and their partners seeking to improve the management and use of their urban and community forests. Eligible applicants include state, local, and tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and other community‑based partners. Projects must conform to laws and authorities in Section 9 of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act ([16 U.S.C. 2105] Urban and Community Forestry Assistance) as amended.

Who can apply

Special district governments; Independent school districts; County governments; State governments; Public and State controlled institutions of higher education; Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education; Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized); Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities; City or township governments

How to apply

Apply through Grants.gov using funding opportunity number USDA-FS-UCF-01-2026. Register your organization (SAM.gov + Grants.gov) before the deadline, then submit the application package listed in the official notice.

Apply at official source