Purpose
Environmental Services manages Portland's wastewater and stormwater infrastructure to protect public health and the environment and preserve and restore the health of Portland's watersheds. Neighborhood to the River collaborates with communities to develop and implement projects that deliver stormwater system, community, and watershed benefits. Grants support community groups and residents who want to improve the health of Portland watersheds.
Types of Projects
Typical grant projects are focused on installing living green infrastructure such as planting native plants, shrubs, and trees and building rain gardens. Projects may include education and art elements that promote stormwater management and watershed health.
View the Grant Eligibility page for more information on eligible projects.
Amount of Grant
Typical grant awards range from $10,000 to $20,000.
Grants can fund specific projects that protect and enhance Portland's watersheds and/or provide watershed education. Please see the Grant Selection Criteria page for more information on how projects are selected.
Matching funds (donations from private and public groups) are not required but are useful in demonstrating support for your project. Matching funds may be in-kind or cash. In-kind donations are donations of products and services and include volunteer time and labor. Cash donations are donations of money, generally for a specific budget item.
Contact the Grant Coordinator to discuss options for your project if you think you cannot find matching funds. Find the Grant Coordinator's contact information on this page.
Delivery of Awarded Funds
Awarded funds are dispersed through reimbursement. The grantee or fiscal agent must submit invoices and copies of receipts for approved budget items to request payment of expenses. Grantees need to have the ability to cover costs upfront or to partner with a fiscal agent who has that ability. A Grant Coordinator can assist with connecting prospective grantees with fiscal agent organizations upon request. Learn more about fiscal agents and what they do on the Application Process and Guidelines page.
Timeline
Grants are awarded to eligible projects throughout the year. Grant projects should be completed and grant funds spent within the fiscal year (July 1-June 30) the grant is awarded.