Natural and Working Lands+ Climate
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations working on climate change adaptation and natural resource management in Illinois. Eligible applicants typically include state agencies, universities, local governments, and nonprofit organizations focused on environmental planning and ecosystem services.
The program funds projects that use spatial modeling and data-driven assessment to inform climate response strategies. Projects should address land-use planning, ecosystem services, or climate adaptation at a statewide or regional scale.
Funding supports planning, research, and collaboration on natural and working lands climate initiatives. Applicants must contribute cost-sharing to their projects.
⚖️ Cost sharing / matching required — applicants must contribute their own funds.
This grant is for organizations working on climate change adaptation and natural resource management in Illinois. Eligible applicants typically include state agencies, universities, local governments, and nonprofit organizations focused on environmental planning and ecosystem services.
The program funds projects that use spatial modeling and data-driven assessment to inform climate response strategies. Projects should address land-use planning, ecosystem services, or climate adaptation at a statewide or regional scale.
Funding supports planning, research, and collaboration on natural and working lands climate initiatives. Applicants must contribute cost-sharing to their projects.
Program description
the Illinois Department of Natural Resources proposes to expand on an exploratory collaboration with the US Climate Alliance and the UIUC Land-use Evolution and impact Assessment Modeling (LEAM) Lab. The purpose of this collaboration is to inform a data-driven process using a state-wide, spatial, integrated, ecosystem service assessment model to help formulate a Plan for responding to the twin crises. Administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 422-20-0501).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for organizations working on climate change adaptation and natural resource management in Illinois. Eligible applicants typically include state agencies, universities, local governments, and nonprofit organizations focused on environmental planning and ecosystem services.
The program funds projects that use spatial modeling and data-driven assessment to inform climate response strategies. Projects should address land-use planning, ecosystem services, or climate adaptation at a statewide or regional scale.
Funding supports planning, research, and collaboration on natural and working lands climate initiatives. Applicants must contribute cost-sharing to their projects.
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Application form (via Illinois GATA CSFA 422-20-0501)
- Project narrative/proposal
- Budget and cost-share documentation
- Organizational capacity statement
- Letters of support (if applicable)
Program contact
- 👤 Patrick Davis
- 📧 patrick.davis2@illinois.gov
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
State agencies, universities, local governments, and nonprofit organizations working on climate and natural resources can apply. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources administers the program.
What is the deadline?
This is a rolling deadline program, so applications may be accepted throughout the year. Contact IDNR for specific submission dates.
What types of projects are funded?
Projects using spatial modeling, ecosystem service assessment, and data-driven planning for climate adaptation on natural and working lands are eligible.
Is cost-sharing required?
Yes, applicants must provide matching funds. The specific percentage should be confirmed with IDNR.
How competitive is this grant?
Competition depends on the funding pool and number of applicants. Projects demonstrating strong partnerships and statewide impact are typically more competitive.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources early to understand current funding priorities and available budget.
- Emphasize partnerships with universities, UIUC LEAM Lab, or US Climate Alliance to align with program goals.
- Focus your proposal on spatial data, ecosystem services modeling, and statewide applicability.
- Document your cost-share commitment clearly; confirm the required match percentage in advance.
- Highlight how your project informs climate response planning or natural resource policy in Illinois.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applicants often lack clear partnerships or fail to reference the ecosystem service assessment model framework. Weak cost-sharing plans or missing budget justification typically weakens competitiveness. Proposals focused on activities outside Illinois or lacking spatial/data-driven components are less competitive.
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