The grant application cycle for the third round of Chesapeake Gateways and Watertrails Network grants will opened July 29, 2024 with an application deadline of October 21, 2024.
The National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways Office is offering this competitive grant opportunity to strengthen communities’ ability to enhance public education of and access to the Chesapeake Bay watershed as detailed in the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998.
The two grant types available are:
Linking Tourism and Economic Development Grants (Award Range: $50,000 to $100,000)
Proposals submitted should demonstrate that the projects reflect a community need; link local recreation, culture, history, and/or nature tourism to economic impact of the community; and involve a collaboration among community partners. Projects should link nature-based and cultural tourism with economic initiatives for local resilience and community sustainability, especially tied with sectors closely linked with Chesapeake heritage, such as historical or cultural crafts and trades, working lands, or maritime activities.
Event Support Grants (Award Range: $10,000-$25,000)
Proposals should demonstrate how the event or festival celebrates the rich cultural, historical, natural, or recreational legacy and ongoing story of Chesapeake Gateways communities. Public events and festivals should encourage exploration and enjoyment of the wealth of cultural, historical, natural, and recreational experiences available in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The events encourage new and enhanced opportunities to connect with underrepresented communities through inclusive and welcoming events, festivals, places, and programming.
Non-Federal cost share or match is not required for these grants.
For more details and a link to the application, go to: Chesapeake Gateways Grants – Chesapeake Bay Watershed (U.S. National Park Service)
VACo Contact: James Hutzler