WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program
Description
The WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program funding opportunity invites eligible entities to apply for funding to develop local solutions to address their water management needs. This opportunity provides funding for watershed group development, restoration planning, and watershed management project planning and design. By providing this funding, Reclamation promotes water reliability and cooperation between stakeholders to reduce conflict, facilitate solutions to complex water issues, and stretch limited water supplies.The WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program demonstrably advances Trump administration priorities, such as those identified in Presidential Executive Order 14154 (January 20, 2025): Unleashing American Energy (E.O. 14154) and Secretarial Order 3418, and aligns with other priorities and requirements, such as those identified in Presidential Executive Order 14332 (August 7, 2025): Improving Oversight in Federal Grantmaking (E.O. 14332).
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program funding opportunity invites eligible entities to apply for funding to develop local solutions to address their water management needs. This opportunity provides funding for watershed group development, restoration planning, and watershed management project planning and design. By providing this funding, Reclamation promotes water reliability and cooperation between stakeholders to reduce conflict, facilitate solutions to complex water issues, and stretch limited water supplies.The WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program demonstrably advances Trump administration priorities, such as those identified in Presidential Executive Order 14154 (January 20, 2025): Unleashing American Energy (E.O. 14154) and Secretarial Order 3418, and aligns with other priorities and requirements, such as those identified in Presidential Executive Order 14332 (August 7, 2025): Improving Oversight in Federal Grantmaking (E.O. 14332).
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $300,000
- Award Floor
- $50,000
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $25,000,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 100
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from Bureau of Reclamation is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this Bureau of Reclamation program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362755).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by Bureau of Reclamation — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on February 15, 2028. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for federal programs such as those from Bureau of Reclamation are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from Bureau of Reclamation
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program?
This opportunity from Bureau of Reclamation is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program provide?
Award amounts for WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program range from $50,000 to $300,000.
When is the deadline for WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program?
The application deadline for WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program is February 15, 2028. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program?
Apply for WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362755). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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