Public Access
🏛 Wildlife Conservation Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Sep 5, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California organizations seeking to provide career pathways and employment services to opportunity youth (OYA) ages 16-24. Eligible applicants typically include nonprofits, workforce development organizations, and community-based organizations with experience serving disconnected or low-income young adults. The program funds projects that place OYA into family-sustaining jobs with wrap-around support services, case management, and trauma-informed approaches. Activities must include job placement, skill training, and culturally competent services designed with OYA input.
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Program description
Access to nature is critical to human health and wellbeing, yet outdoor access and its many benefits are not equitably distributed or equally welcoming to all communities. WCB supports California’s Outdoors for All Initiative by funding Planning and Construction projects that support wildlife-oriented recreation and nature-focused education throughout the state. Planning grants are intended to support the development of projects that are likely to qualify for future implementation funding under this program. Implementation grants are intended for construction or enhancement of public access facilities. WCB is committed to providing support for the full range of outdoor activities that are compatible with our habitat protection mandate: Hunting and fishing Non-consumptive recreation including but not limited to birdwatching, hiking, cycling, and environmental education
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Solicitation for Proposal document (full RFP)
- Notice of Intent (optional but recommended by October 15, 2024)
- Project narrative addressing OYA engagement, job quality, and wrap-around services
- Budget and cost-sharing documentation
- Organizational capacity and relevant experience documentation
- Evaluation plan with employment outcome metrics
Program contact
- 📧 Alyssa.Benedetti@wildlife.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-212-0691
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 16 | 6 | 38% |
| 2025-2026 | 12 | 3 | 25% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Nonprofit organizations, workforce development agencies, and community-based organizations in California with experience serving opportunity youth. Check the full Solicitation for Proposal for specific organizational requirements.
What is the deadline?
Proposals must be submitted by 3 p.m. PST on November 4, 2024. Notice of Intent is requested by October 15, 2024 at noon.
What activities can be funded?
Job training, placement into family-sustaining jobs, case management, wrap-around support services, and trauma-informed programming. All services must be culturally competent and informed by OYA voice.
What is the funding range?
Individual awards typically range from $1,500,000 to $2,000,000. The total funding pool is $25,000,000.
Is cost sharing required?
Yes, cost sharing is required. Contact EDD for specific match percentage requirements.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Attend the October 8, 2024 informational webinar at 1:00 PM PST to understand funder priorities and ask questions directly.
- Submit a Notice of Intent by October 15 to signal your interest and receive any last-minute updates from EDD.
- Center your proposal on OYA voice and lived experience—involve young adults in program design and decision-making throughout your application.
- Include detailed budget justification showing how wrap-around services and case management accelerate employment outcomes.
- Demonstrate cultural competency and trauma-informed approaches specific to your target OYA population.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to demonstrate meaningful OYA engagement in program design and decision-making. Underestimating the importance of trauma-informed and culturally competent service delivery in proposals. Not clearly linking wrap-around supports to measurable employment and career advancement outcomes.
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