– Coastal Management Program – Programmatic Projects (FY25)
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations and agencies working on coastal management projects in Illinois. Eligible applicants typically include state agencies, local governments, nonprofits, universities, and tribal organizations focused on coastal areas. Projects must address coastal planning, coordination, hazard mitigation, habitat protection, education, or outreach. Activities supported include planning studies, habitat restoration, equipment purchase, staff support, and public education programs.
The grant is administered through Illinois GATA and requires projects to have clear coastal management benefits. Cost-sharing is not required. Awards range from $1,000 to $350,000 and support both planning and implementation activities.
This grant is for organizations and agencies working on coastal management projects in Illinois. Eligible applicants typically include state agencies, local governments, nonprofits, universities, and tribal organizations focused on coastal areas. Projects must address coastal planning, coordination, hazard mitigation, habitat protection, education, or outreach. Activities supported include planning studies, habitat restoration, equipment purchase, staff support, and public education programs.
The grant is administered through Illinois GATA and requires projects to have clear coastal management benefits. Cost-sharing is not required. Awards range from $1,000 to $350,000 and support both planning and implementation activities.
Program description
Support for projects focused on coastal planning, coordination, coastal hazards, habitat protection and management, education and outreach materials and programs. This funding opportunity is administered by the Coastal Management Program (CMP), part of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Federal funding for CMP originates through a cooperative agreement between IDNR and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. Federal Assistance Listing: 11.419. Administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 422-30-0103).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
- City / Municipal Government
- County Government
- Nonprofits
- Public Authority
- Public K-12 School
- Public University
- State Government
- Tribal Organization
Details
This grant is for organizations and agencies working on coastal management projects in Illinois. Eligible applicants typically include state agencies, local governments, nonprofits, universities, and tribal organizations focused on coastal areas. Projects must address coastal planning, coordination, hazard mitigation, habitat protection, education, or outreach. Activities supported include planning studies, habitat restoration, equipment purchase, staff support, and public education programs.
The grant is administered through Illinois GATA and requires projects to have clear coastal management benefits. Cost-sharing is not required. Awards range from $1,000 to $350,000 and support both planning and implementation activities.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- GATA Applicant Self Certification Form
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Organizational eligibility documentation (501(c)(3) or government agency status)
- Resumes of key project staff
- Letters of support (optional but recommended)
Program contact
- 👤 Meg Kelly
- 📧 meg.kelly@illinois.gov
- 📞 312-814-1405
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 11.419 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$19,268,923
-
$6,274,000
-
$6,200,000
-
$6,156,000
-
$6,062,000
-
$6,034,000
-
$6,016,000
-
$5,951,000
-
$5,930,000
-
$5,884,000
Top States by Funding
- MI 6 awards $41.7M
- NC 5 awards $20.4M
- VA 6 awards $18.9M
- MD 6 awards $18.1M
- WA 3 awards $18.1M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
FAQ
What types of organizations can apply for this grant?
State agencies, local governments, nonprofits, universities, and tribal organizations with coastal management missions. Most Illinois coast-focused organizations are eligible.
What activities does the grant fund?
Coastal planning, hazard mitigation, habitat protection/restoration, education programs, outreach materials, and coordination efforts. Equipment purchase and personnel costs are typically allowable.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing is required for this grant. You can apply for 100% federal funding.
How competitive is this grant?
Moderately competitive. Stronger applications clearly demonstrate coastal impact and alignment with state priorities. Quality planning and measurable outcomes strengthen proposals.
What is the funding range and timeline?
Awards typically range from $1,000 to $350,000. Deadlines are rolling, with applications accepted throughout the year.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Review the Illinois GATA application system requirements early. GATA portal requirements and deadlines may differ from federal timelines.
- Connect your project to specific coastal priorities: hazard resilience, habitat quality, or public access. Vague proposals score lower.
- Include measurable outcomes tied to coastal management indicators. Specify what coastal condition will improve.
- Partner with local/state agencies when possible. Letters of support from IDNR or municipalities strengthen competitiveness significantly.
- Document any equipment needs clearly in budget and justify why equipment is essential to coastal outcomes.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications fail when projects lack clear coastal management focus or measurable outcomes tied to coastal conditions. Weak partnerships and insufficient detail about how activities address specific coastal challenges reduce competitiveness. Incomplete GATA compliance documentation or missing required state certifications are disqualifying.
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