The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) have announced the availability of funding through the Multistate Conservation Grant (MSCG) Program for projects beginning in 2026. This opportunity will support fish & wildlife restoration, sportfish conservation, and R3 (Recruitment, Retention & Reactivation) efforts at a regional or national scale.
This important program supports collaborative, large-scale conservation projects that address regional or national priorities beyond the scope of a single state. Funding is available through two grant tracks:
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1. Traditional MSCG (T-MSCG)
- Estimated funding available: $6 million
- Maximum award per project: $625,000
- Supports projects focused on wildlife or sport fish research, habitat restoration, conservation, public use, and recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) efforts for fishing and boating.
2. R3 MSCG (R3-MSCG)
- Estimated funding available: $5 million
- Maximum award per project: $1 million
- Targets hunting and target shooting R3 activities, including national recruitment programs, communications, and outreach.
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Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- State fish and wildlife agencies
- Institutions of higher education
- Nonprofit organizations
- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Partnerships involving multiple states
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Eligible Activities
- Research, surveys, and assessments
- Habitat restoration and management
- Public education and outreach
- Aquatic and hunter education programs
- R3 initiatives for fishing, hunting, or shooting sports
Projects must align with one or more of the 2026 AFWA Strategic Priorities and show benefit to:
- A majority of U.S. states, or
- A majority of states within a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service region, or
- A majority of members of a regional fish and wildlife association (i.e., WAFWA, MAFWA, NEAFWA, SEAFWA)
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This is a fantastic opportunity to support regional and national coastal conservation efforts that enhance fish and wildlife habitat, expand public engagement, and promote sustainable use of our natural resources.
Proposals must be submitted through the AFWA MSCGP Portal by September 22, 2025, no later than 11:59 PM ET.
📄 For complete program details, eligibility, and application instructions, view the full MSCG Funding Notice (PDF).
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