Highlands Open Space Partnership Funding Program Grant

Highlands Open Space Partnership Funding Program Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: New Jersey Highlands Coalition
Last Updated: November 06, 2025

Summary

The Highlands Open Space Partnership Funding Program, managed by the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, offers a matching grant opportunity to support property acquisitions that protect vital resources in the Highlands Region. This initiative promotes landowner equity and environmental sustainability, in alignment with the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act and the Highlands Regional Master Plan. Applications are accepted year-round, with grant awards covering up to 50% of the property's purchase price.

Overview

Note: Applications are accepted at any time; there is no application deadline. Following review of materials, applicants will be notified if funding is currently available for the submitted project proposal. Mission The New Jersey Highlands Coalition advocates for the protection of the Highlands’ natural and cultural resources, including its water on which over 70% of New Jersey’s population, its economy, and its viability rely. Specifically, our focus is on: Safeguarding the Highlands’ water and forest resources by advocating for effective strategies and strong environmental and land use policies, including the implementation of the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act and the Highlands Regional Master Plan.Educating people about the Highlands’ critical role in ensuring clean water, climate resilience, and economic viability far beyond the immediate region. Activating and empowering a coalition of people and organizations who care about the Highlands and its role in the state’s water supply.Providing expert support to grassroots groups that amplifies their community-based advocacy efforts.Leading advocacy efforts at every level of government to ensure the protection of all Highlands natural and cultural resources for every resident of the State. The Highlands Open Space Partnership Funding program is a matching grant program designed to support the acquisition of property for the protection of resources within the Highlands Region, and to further the goals of landowner equity as specified in the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act of 2004 and the Highlands Regional Master Plan (RMP). The Highlands Council will provide a maximum grant award of 50% of the total purchase price of the property.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website.