Alabama-based nonprofit organizations working to improve access to the state’s waterways can now apply for funding through the 2026 Waterway Enhancement Program, administered by the Alabama Scenic River Trail.
The application period opened January 13 and runs through March 13, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Central Time.
The Waterway Enhancement Program supports community-led projects that expand safe and inclusive water recreation opportunities across Alabama. The program is open to both established and emerging nonprofit organizations, including smaller, community-based groups and those with limited grant-writing experience.
Grants of up to $5,000 are available per project. Matching or leveraged funds are encouraged but not required, and projects may be fully or partially funded. Award recipients are expected to be notified in April, with funds available in mid-May.
Funded projects must be completed during the May–November grant cycle, with final reports due in December.
According to program guidelines, grant funding may be used for a range of waterway recreation initiatives. Eligible uses include launch site improvements, the purchase of safety or paddling equipment, water-based education or safety programs, and community events such as paddling outings or cleanup efforts. Past projects funded through the program have included public kayak launch improvements and the purchase of canoes for outreach and educational programming.
Organizations may receive Waterway Enhancement Program funding for up to two consecutive years. Nonprofits that received funding in both the 2024 and 2025 cycles are not eligible to apply in 2026 but may reapply in 2027.
Applications are reviewed through a competitive process outlined in the program’s Request for Proposals. Review criteria include project readiness, anticipated community impact, alignment with the program’s mission, and the organization’s ability to complete the project within the grant cycle.
Beyond project funding, the Waterway Enhancement Program is intended to help strengthen nonprofit capacity by giving organizations experience in applying for grants and managing funded projects, supporting continued growth in waterway recreation efforts across the state.
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the Request for Proposals and submit applications through Alabama Scenic River Trail’s grant portal before the March 13 deadline.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.
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