West Chester, Pa (August 19, 2025) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding Chester County schools, colleges, businesses, nonprofit groups, and environmental organizations that state grant funding is available for environmental education projects.
Now, through November 14, applications are open for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Environmental Education Grants Program.
“At a time when we’re seeing environmental protections rolled back and a resurgence of climate change denial, it’s so important that students have the opportunity to gain an understanding of science, sustainability, and the interconnected nature of the world around us,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “These programs are a great way for the next generation of leaders to get outside and learn about the importance of clean air, water, and a safe, healthy environment.”
The Environmental Education Grants Program supports a wide range of activities from establishing pollinator habitat, sustainable and restorative agriculture projects, stormwater control workshops, green careers, and climate change awareness and prevention.
“Learning about the environment is a lifelong opportunity for Pennsylvanians, and this grant program funds projects for all ages,” said DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley. “These projects help educate Pennsylvanians about water quality, air pollution, climate change, and land use, and help people of all ages know more about the environment in their community.”
More than $1 million in total grant funding is available for the development of innovative education projects that address air and water quality, land use, and/or climate change. Project proposals must demonstrate objectives to heighten public understanding of PA’s environmental issues and to increase individual and/or community environmental stewardship and advocacy.
Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis. Projects must be implemented July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. There are three tiers of awards available: Seed Grants for projects up to $5,000; Grow Grants for projects between $5,001 and $30,000; and Impact Grants for projects between $30,001 and $65,000.
Funding priority is given to environmental education projects that engage people living, working, recreating, and/or attending school within Environmental Justice areas or otherwise underserved communities.
The 2026 EE Grants Manual and other pertinent information is available on the DEP website.
A free 2026 EE Grants Program instructional webinar will be held for interested applicants on September 23, 2025, from noon until 1:00 p.m. DEP educators will review grant updates, provide grant writing guidance, and address questions and concerns. Register here on or before September 22, 2025 to receive supplemental resources and a recording of the webinar.
The Environmental Education Grants program was established by the Environmental Education Act of 1993, which mandates setting aside 5 percent of the pollution fines and penalties DEP collects annually for environmental education in Pennsylvania. Since the program began, more than 2,200 projects, totaling over $14 million, have been awarded grant funds.
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