Explore the River RFP Now Open!

Explore the River participantsThe Santa Ana River Conservancy program of the California State Coastal Conservancy announces the availability of grants to public agencies, tribes and nonprofit organizations for programs that facilitate and enhance the public’s opportunities to explore the Santa Ana River and its tributaries.

The Explore the River (“ETR”) grant program seeks to provide experiences for people and communities who face challenges or barriers to accessing or enjoying the River (“ETR Priority Communities”). The ETR grant program will focus on the Santa Ana River and its tributaries excluding the coastal areas. Organizations interested in grants should apply to the Conservancy’s Explore the River program here  (downloadable Word version here).

ETR Priority Communities may include but are not limited to lower-income individuals and households, people with disabilities, people of color, immigrant communities, foster youth, and others.

Projects should also meet one or more of the following priorities:

  • Provides an enjoyable experience at the River.
  • Reduces economic, physical, operational, or societal barriers to accessing or enjoying the River.
  • Inspires ongoing River stewardship ethic through active learning and interactive activities.

Approximately $250,000 will be awarded in this grant round. The anticipated source of funding for this grant round is the 2024 Climate Bond (Prop 4). There is no minimum grant amount, and the anticipated maximum grant amount is $75,000. Applicants should apply for projects that could start in February 2026. The Conservancy will base the size of the award on each project’s needs, its overall benefits, and on the extent of competing demands for funds.

Applications materials can be found here  (downloadable Word version here).

Applications must be submitted via email to grants@scc.ca.gov by Friday, August 1, 2025.

 

Timeline, available amount for the grant program, and other details of funding could be affected by the State’s budget process and applicants will be notified as appropriate.