City of Water Day Grants

The City of Water Day Grants support organizations across New York and New Jersey in hosting free community events focused on waterfront engagement and climate resilience. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, organizations can collaborate with local artists and schools to promote awareness of climate change through interactive activities. This year's theme emphasizes the interconnectedness of NY and NJ communities, aiming to foster a sustainable and vibrant waterfront experience for all.

Join hundreds of organizations in all five boroughs, Westchester and Rockland counties, and New Jersey that have joined City of Water Day by signing up to host free in-person community programs on and about local waterfronts.
For a limited number of participating organizations, the New York–New Jersey Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP) can provide funding support ranging between $1,000-$4,000. This support can be used for costs associated with producing an event on City of Water Day. We encourage organizations to work with local artists, schools and universities, agency partners, and community-based organizations to creatively raise awareness of climate change and resilience in their local communities.
Participating organizations and their City of Water Day events will be listed on the official website and shared widely by the New York–New Jersey Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP) and Waterfront Alliance across social media platforms, through press releases, and more.
City of Water Day events are independently produced by the many wonderful, diverse civic organizations and public agencies that steward our waterfront and waterways. For all the organizations registering their July 12th City of Water Day celebration, Waterfront Alliance and New York & New Jersey Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP) will provide a partner “toolkit,” which will include guidance on messaging and educational takeaways for your community participants.
City of Water Day is a region-wide day of free, family-friendly events on or near the water!
Now in its 18th year, City of Water Day—taking place this year on Saturday, July 12—is a region-wide day organized by Waterfront Alliance and New York–New Jersey Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP), to champion a climate-resilient New York and New Jersey harbor.
Dozens of communities across all five boroughs, Westchester and Rockland counties, and New Jersey will host events on and near the water that celebrate the importance of a resilient and equitably shared waterfront. From free kayaking to rowing to hands-on workshops, these events offer community members opportunities for fun, education, and access to their local waterfront.

Eligibility

Organizations in all five boroughs, Westchester and Rockland counties, and New Jersey