Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD): Planning and Technical Assistance Grants

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

NOTE:
We strongly encourage interested applicants to schedule a proposal lab with NFWF staff or contact its contracted field liaisons to discuss their proposed project to gather constructive feedback in developing a competitive proposal and to obtain guidance on the most appropriate program and funding opportunity for project consideration.
Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program
The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program delivered in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service supports efforts to improve the condition and connectivity of habitats for at risk and federally listed species.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is committed to operating in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. We encourage all applicants to do the same.
The ability and extent to which NFWF is able to make awards is contingent upon receipt of funds from federal agencies and/or other funding partners. Final funding decisions will be made based on the applications received and the level and timing of funding received by NFWF.Planning and Technical Assistance Grants
The WILD Program Pillars are:
Pillar 1: Restore, conserve, and connect fish and wildlife habitatPillar 2: Improve water quality for fish, wildlife and peoplePillar 3: Align the power of nature to adapt to changing landscapesPillar 4: Expand access to nature and outdoor recreation for all AmericansPillar 5: Build partnership capacity to collaborate and coordinate actions
The Chesapeake WILD Grants Program has three distinct tracks:
Planning and Technical AssistanceGrants up to $75,000 for projects that enhance the capacity of local and regional partners to implement future on the ground actions consistent with the priorities above, through community-based assessment planning, design, and other technical assistance-oriented activities. ImplementationCollaborative Conservation Grants