Funding Environmental Justice Work in New England & Upstate New York: 5 Grants for Nonprofits in 2025
Securing funding for environmental justice work is no easy feat. If you’re running a nonprofit fighting for clean air, safe drinking water, or climate resilience, you already know how tough it is to stay afloat while doing the work that matters. The need is urgent, but too often, funding feels out of reach - especially for grassroots organizations that are stretched thin and up against larger, more established nonprofits with entire teams dedicated to grant writing.
That’s why we put this guide together.
If you’re looking for real, actionable funding opportunities for 2025, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find five grants specifically geared toward nonprofits tackling environmental justice issues in New England and Upstate New York - including eligibility details, deadlines, and insider tips on how to craft a proposal that gets funded.
Whether you’re applying for your first grant or you’ve been at this for years, this is for you. Let’s get into it.
1. Environmental Justice for New England: Thriving Communities Subgrants
📍 For: Nonprofits and community groups in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont
If your organization is working in a community that’s been left behind when it comes to environmental protection—whether that’s tackling air pollution, improving water access, or helping residents build climate resilience—this is a solid funding opportunity. The program prioritizes projects that are community-driven and focused on creating real, measurable improvements in environmental health.
💰 Grant Amounts: Up to $350,000, depending on project size
🔺 What They Fund: Environmental health, pollution reduction, and climate adaptation in historically marginalized communities
🗓 Deadline: March 7, 2025, with rolling applications afterward
🔗 More Info & Apply: [Environmental Justice for New England Grants]
2. New England Healthy Communities Grant Program
📍 For: Nonprofits and local governments working on environmental health in New England
Run by the EPA, this program is all about tackling pollution, environmental degradation, and public health risks - especially in communities that have been disproportionately impacted. If your nonprofit is working on reducing air pollution, increasing green spaces, or cleaning up contaminated land or waterways, this could be the funding boost you need.
💰 Grant Amounts: Varies (typically in the $100,000–$300,000 range)
🔺 What They Fund: Environmental health, pollution reduction, and climate resilience projects
🗓 Deadline: Expected announcement early 2025
🔗 More Info & Apply: [EPA New England Grants]
3. Environmental Justice Community Impact Grants (New York State)
📍 For: Nonprofits working in disadvantaged communities across New York State
New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is offering this grant to fund community-led environmental projects in areas that have long faced pollution and neglect. If you’re working on clean water access, urban green space development, or environmental education, this funding could help take your work to the next level.
💰 Grant Amounts: Up to $100,000 per project
🔺 What They Fund: Environmental education, urban greening, clean water initiatives, and community-driven sustainability efforts
🗓 Deadline: Spring 2025 - stay updated on NYSDEC’s website
🔗 More Info & Apply: [NYSDEC Environmental Justice Grants]
4. Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Environmental Grants
📍 For: Nonprofits and environmental groups in Western New York
If you’re working to protect water resources and combat environmental injustice in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, or surrounding areas, this funding could be a game changer. Whether your project involves restoring local waterways, tackling industrial pollution, or advocating for clean water rights, this grant supports on-the-ground action that improves environmental health.
💰 Grant Amounts: $50,000–$500,000
🔺 What They Fund: Water quality restoration, ecosystem protection, and climate resilience in the Buffalo-Niagara region
🗓 Deadline: Next grant cycle announcement expected early 2025
🔗 More Info & Apply: [Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Grant Program]
5. Cummings $30 Million Grant Program (Massachusetts)
📍 For: Nonprofits serving communities in Greater Boston
If your nonprofit is working on climate action, environmental justice, or sustainability in Boston or surrounding areas, the Cummings Foundation offers multi-year funding to help scale your impact. They prioritize projects that serve local communities and have long-term benefits.
💰 Grant Amounts: Multi-year funding up to $500,000
🔺 What They Fund: Climate change, environmental education, and community-driven sustainability initiatives
🗓 Deadline: Spring 2025
🔗 More Info & Apply: [Cummings Foundation Grants]
How to Write a Grant Proposal That Actually Gets Funded
We all know grant writing can be exhausting, especially when you’re doing it on top of running programs, building partnerships, and managing day-to-day operations. The reality is, funders aren’t just looking for good ideas—they’re looking for projects that are organized, strategic, and ready to go. Here’s how to give your application the best shot:
👉 Make It About Them, Not Just You
Grantmakers aren’t just handing out money - they’re investing in outcomes that align with their mission. Show that your project directly advances their priorities while solving a real problem.
👉 Get to the Point - Fast
Most funders read dozens, if not hundreds, of applications. Don’t bury your key message in fluff. Be clear, specific, and results-driven.
👉 Show That You Can Deliver
Funders need to trust that you can execute your project effectively. Highlight your team’s experience, past successes, and community partnerships that back up your ability to follow through.
👉 Budget Smart - And Be Transparent
A vague or inflated budget is a red flag. Clearly outline exactly how you’ll use the funds and why each expense is necessary.
👉 Follow the Instructions Like Your Funding Depends On It (Because It Does)
Missing a deadline, exceeding word limits, or forgetting required documents can get your application tossed before it’s even read. Triple-check everything before hitting submit.
Final Thoughts: Get the Funding You Need to Keep Fighting for Environmental Justice
At Harvey & Smith Impact, we specialize in grant writing, fundraising strategy, and nonprofit sustainability - so you can focus on the work that matters most.