2026 Prairie State Conservation Fund Grant Programs and Key Dates
This year, we are excited to continue our Acquisition of Land and Conservation Easements Grant Program and to offer an additional funding opportunity through our NEW grant program, the Stewardship Challenge Grant Program.
Acquisition of Land and Conservation Easements
Funds awarded under this program must be used to acquire fee simple land or permanent conservation easements that preserve or enhance the natural habitats and wildlife areas in the state of Illinois.
The period to submit Letters of Intent for Acquisition of Land and Conservation Easement grants isNOW OPEN from January 5 until January 30.
To learn more about this program and to access the grant portal to submit an LOI, visit the program page on our website: Acquisition of Land or Conservation Easements.
Stewardship Challenge Grant Program
The objective of the Stewardship Challenge Grant Program is to support eligible organizations with their habitat restoration efforts and enhance community-building by expanding grantees’ networks of donors and volunteers. Applicants will not be required to submit a Letter of Intent for this program. The period to submit Full Proposals begins February 6 and closes March 27.
For additional information, and to access the grant portal to apply, visit the program page on our website: Stewardship Challenge Grant Program.
For questions concerning either grant program or to discuss a potential project, please reach out to Brad Hanzel, Senior Grant Program Officer.
