Washington Launched Wildlife Diversity Grant Program
Public and non-profit groups can now apply for funding to protect at-risk species across the state.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Wildlife
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has opened the application process for its wildlife diversity grant program. This initiative supports conservation efforts for at-risk species throughout Washington.
Why it matters
The program aims to restore and protect state biodiversity through a targeted investment from the Washington state Legislature. These grants provide the financial resources necessary for entities to undertake long-term conservation projects.
The WDFW has allocated approximately $900,000 for the 2027-2029 biennium, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. Officials anticipate funding between 5 and 15 total projects.
The players
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
The state agency responsible for managing native fish and wildlife populations and protecting biodiversity in Washington.
Washington state Legislature
The state legislative body that provides the fiscal investment and policy framework for wildlife conservation initiatives.
The details
Applicants must submit a pre-proposal to the WDFW to be evaluated for an invitation to provide a full proposal. The program is open to public, non-profit, academic, and tribal entities working on conservation activities. Following the initial evaluation, the department will select applicants to move forward in the process.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Virtual information session for prospective grant applicants.
November 13, 2026: Deadline for submitting required grant pre-proposals.
November 2026: Selection of applicants for the full proposal round.
January 2027: Final deadline for submitting full project proposals.
July 1, 2027: Earliest start date for funded conservation project work.
The Home Front
This funding cycle represents the latest deployment of resources under the ongoing Washington Wildlife Diversity Grant Program. The program continues the state's strategy of utilizing biennial budget cycles to address localized conservation needs.
If you are affiliated with a public, academic, or non-profit organization, ensure your team attends the October 14, 2026, information session to clarify eligibility requirements. Organizations should prepare their project scopes now to meet the November 13, 2026, pre-proposal deadline.
The takeaway
This grant cycle provides a critical funding window for organizations dedicated to habitat restoration and species protection. Interested applicants should calendar the November 13, 2026, pre-proposal deadline to ensure their project is considered for the 2027-2029 funding biennium.
Further reading
Learn more about conservation efforts in your area by visiting Washington Wildlife.
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Do you support the use of state tax dollars to fund wildlife conservation projects?
