Up to $250,000 available for community projects, fellowships, research and innovation
The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO) is accepting applications for conservation and environmental stewardship initiatives, with up to $250,000 available to support locally led efforts that advance the greater well-being of the region.
For the third consecutive year, FAO’s Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund is investing in community projects, fellowships, research and innovation in the areas of conservation and environmental stewardship. This annual funding is made possible through landmark investments from the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) and gifts from other committed partners who helped establish FAO’s Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, including American Electric Power, the AEP Foundation, Nicolozakes Trucking & Construction Inc., and Ohio CAT.
“Investments in Appalachian Ohio’s natural assets are investments in the well-being of the people and communities they sustain,” said Cara Dingus Brook, FAO president and CEO. “We thank MWCD for its transformative support and partnership and the many generous donors who have grown this fund from an ambitious vision into a lasting resource.”
Over the past two years, this annual source of funding has awarded more than $280,000 in environmental stewardship grants, fellowships and scholarships across the region.
“From restoring forests and waterways and supporting groundbreaking research to equipping community members with the tools to become lifelong stewards of the environment, this funding is helping to strengthen communities today while laying the groundwork for a more resilient future,” said Craig Butler, MWCD executive director. “These grants are one of many ways MWCD supports projects and people whose work will create lasting benefits across the region.”
Eligible applicants within Appalachian Ohio’s 32 counties and seven additional counties served by MWCD may apply for:
- Community grants to support locally driven projects that preserve and enhance our natural environment. Public and nonprofit organizations as well as individuals or groups working with a fiscal sponsor are eligible to apply.
- Fellowships to provide two years of support (including a financial stipend and mentorship) for individuals who pioneer positive change outside their paid positions through projects that address environmental challenges, promote biodiversity and encourage conservation. Nominations, including self-nominations, will be accepted.
- Innovation grants to invest in new and creative approaches that result in environmental good while encouraging environmental stewardship.
- Research grants to address gaps in ecosystem services, planning and flood resilience and emphasize innovative monitoring and integrated watershed management.
This funding opportunity also includes the FAO Environmental Stewardship Pillar Scholarships to support individuals seeking degrees or continuing education in ecology, forestry, wildlife ecology or related natural resource fields, as well as skilled trades, vocational and technical training in fields that integrate and support green energy technology, sustainable agriculture and land stewardship. These scholarships are available as part of FAO’s annual scholarship application cycle, which opens in early January.
All funding requests must be submitted by Tuesday, Aug. 11. Additional information and applications are available at www.AppalachianOhio.org/EnvironmentalStewardship.
For more information on these funding opportunities and how you can support or create opportunities for the people and communities of Appalachian Ohio, visit www.AppalachianOhio.org, email info@ffao.org or call 740.753.1111.
