Grant program
The Sanctuary Community Fund
Small grants to community-led conservation, science, and education projects across the National Marine Sanctuary System. Often the difference between a project happening this year or waiting another two.
- $3.4M
- Distributed since program launch
- 127
- Community-led projects funded
- 15 of 18
- Sanctuaries with active grantees
What the Fund supports
The Sanctuary Community Fund makes small grants (typically $5,000–$50,000) to community organizations, tribal entities, and local research and education partners working in or adjacent to a National Marine Sanctuary. Funded projects span:
- Habitat restoration and species recovery
- Citizen-science and volunteer monitoring
- Tribal co-stewardship coordination
- Place-based marine education in Title I schools
- Maritime heritage documentation
- Working-waterfront preservation
See the grants awarded directory for what the Fund has supported this cycle.
How the cycle works
-
01
Letter of inquiry
Rolling, year-round
A short eligibility check — most decided within two weeks.
-
02
Full proposal
Invited applicants only
Full project narrative, budget, and partner letters.
-
03
Review
~8 weeks
Foundation staff plus sanctuary advisory committee review.
-
04
Award & reporting
Quarterly cycles
Grantees receive funds and report at midpoint and close-out.
Letters of inquiry, full applications, and reporting are managed through the Foundation's SmartSimple grants portal. Questions about eligibility can be directed to grants@marinesanctuary.org.