Conservation Innovation Grants

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is investing up to $15 million to support the development of new tools, approaches, practices, and technologies to further natural resource conservation on private lands through the Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) program. This is the national CIG Classic funding opportunity, which supports early pilot projects or demonstrations of promising new conservation approaches, tools, and technologies. CIG Classic grantees must match each federal dollar invested at least one to one. CIG partners use creative problem solving and innovation to address our nation’s water quality, air quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat challenges, all while improving agricultural operations. This year, funded CIGs will focus on climate-smart strategies for water resources, soil health (focused on carbon sequestration and climate resilience), nutrient management, grazing lands conservation, and strategies to increase conservation adoption. All non-federal entities and individuals are eligible to apply.
Proposals are due by July 19, 2021.