Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs: Statewide Waterway Access Grant (SWAG)

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs offer the Statewide Waterway Access Grant (SWAG) to support projects enhancing public access to waterways. Grants of up to $30,000 are available, with a required 1:1 match. This initiative prioritizes non-profit organizations, municipalities, and educational institutions focused on improving recreational access and advancing the mission of fostering stewardship of Pennsylvania's waterways. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until November 1, 2025.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis. All projects must be completed no later than November 1, 2025. There will be no extensions beyond this date.
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) and our supporting organization the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR) currently administer eight mini-grant programs. Each program is unique with specific goals and objectives but all focus on one or more of the following areas of interest: land and water trails; outdoor recreation; resource protection and conservation; and community engagement.
POWR administers the SWAG program with funding from the PA Fish and Boat Commission and the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Applicants can request up to $30,000 and project proposals must include a 1:1 match (cash, in-kind, or a combination).

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations with tax-exempt status 501(c)(3), municipalities, counties, and educational institutions. Non-profit organizations must submit proof of non-profit status and be registered with the PA Department of State Bureau of Charitable Organizations.Eligible projects include acquisition, design and engineering, construction, or upgrade and rehabilitation of non-motorized public access to Pennsylvania waterways.