ClosedStrong fit
Parks & Trails New York Park and Trail Partnership Grants
Parks & Trails New York Nonprofit or association
Checked on ptny.org
This round has closed. The page stays up so you can plan for the next one, and it updates when the funder posts new dates.
- Award
- Grants up to $300,000 in the Stewardship and Public Access category, with lower caps in the other categories.
- Next date
- Next date not posted
- Who can apply
- Nonprofits
- Where
- New York State parks, historic sites and DEC public lands
This program offers competitive grants to nonprofit Friends groups that support New York State parks, trails, historic sites and DEC public lands. The Stewardship and Public Access category pays for public access improvements, new trails, accessible infrastructure and restoration work. Other categories cover organizational capacity, permanent staff and 501(c)(3) startup costs.
Could a playground win this?
Strong fit Medium confidence
Playgrounds are not named. However, the Stewardship and Public Access category pays for permanent public access improvements and accessible infrastructure at state parks and DEC lands. Only nonprofit Friends groups with a current agreement with OPRHP or DEC can apply, so schools, HOAs and towns are not eligible, and the project should fit the site's plans.
Public access or engagement improvements, such as kiosks, exhibits, signage, new trails with signage, boat launches and docks, and other activities that enhance public enjoyment of the public resource.
Building infrastructure to better accommodate visitors with disabilities or mobility challenges.
About the match
Stewardship and Public Access grants (and Capacity grants) require a match of 10 percent of the total project budget. Up to half of the match may be in-kind. The Professional Development category instead requires a cash match, and Step Up grants require a small cash or in-kind match. Volunteer labor or donated materials can count.
On a $50,000 playground project, you would provide $5,000 and the grant up to $45,000.
How to apply
- Use the eligibility questionnaire to confirm your Friends group qualifies and has a current agreement with OPRHP or DEC.
- Talk with your Site Manager or Regional Director about whether the project is a priority and fits the site's master plan.
- Create an account in the Foundant grant portal and submit your application there.
- For construction projects, include the required site plan, maps and environmental and historic review documents.
We summarize public information. Always confirm details with the funder before applying.