The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is accepting full proposals for the Southeast Michigan Resilience Fund 2026–2027, a competitive financial-assistance program supporting nature-based stormwater solutions, habitat restoration, improved natural areas, and community access to nature. This is an applicant grant program, not a government purchasing solicitation.
Application deadline and applicant awards
Full proposals are due Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 11:59 PM Central Time through NFWF Easygrants. Individual grants typically range from $150,000 to $400,000; these figures describe the program’s typical awards, not a guaranteed minimum or absolute award ceiling. A total funding pool is not stated in the controlling RFP. Grant awards depend on available funding and proposal review. No match is required, although meaningful cash or in-kind contributions strengthen competitiveness.
Eligible applicants and geography
Eligible lead applicants include nonprofit 501(c) organizations, state agencies, local and municipal governments, tribal governments and organizations, and educational institutions. Federal agencies, individuals acting without incorporation, and for-profit businesses are not eligible lead applicants. Governmental applicants are expected to partner closely with a nonprofit and/or community organization for competitiveness. Project sites must be in St. Clair, Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Livingston, or Monroe County, Michigan.
Fundable work and requirements
The three funding priorities are nature-based solutions and access to nature; habitat quality and connectivity; and activation of restored habitats and natural areas. Category 1 and 2 proposals should put more than 70% of award dollars into on-the-ground work. Plans must explain measurable outcomes, project implementation and maintenance, community participation, spatial data and applicable permits. Applicants should select relevant metrics in Easygrants; at least two designated project metrics are recommended by the RFP. Applications that only cover routine maintenance, stand-alone parking lots, noncompetitive small infrastructure, lobbying, litigation, and other restricted activities are not eligible for the relevant categories. Project start dates should be no earlier than March 30, 2027; a standard project typically lasts two years, with a justified third year possible.
Submission and financial terms
All materials must be submitted online via NFWF Easygrants. New applicants must register, choose this specific funding opportunity, and complete the application and required budgets, project narrative, site mapping, metrics, and other materials specified in Easygrants. NFWF awards are primarily reimbursable, although advances may be considered for documented imminent expenditures. Applicable permit, environmental, and federal compliance requirements may apply before project activities begin.
Controlling official solicitation: NFWF Southeast Michigan Resilience Fund 2026–2027 Request for Proposals. Source reviewed October 14, 2026. Applicant instructions and deadline on the live funder site control over third-party summaries.