NWRS Friends Grant Program

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (Foundation) is requesting $100,000 ($87,000 for projects and $13,000 for NFWF operations) to establish a cooperative agreement to support the National Wildlife Refuge System Friends Group grant program. The Foundation and Refuge System have shared the mission and goals of the Refuge System with millions of visitors across the country. This partnership has helped achieve numerous conservation, interpretive, and environmental education and outreach projects and providing additional support will facilitate the continuation of this work through a partnership with a proven track record of success. The National Wildlife Refuge System Friends Group grant program supports start-up, capacity building and specific projects that assist Friends Groups to be effective co-stewards of the important natural resources within the Refuge System. As a special emphasis, a portion of this agreement would be directed towards Friends mentoring projects. The program provides competitive seed grants to creative and innovative proposals that seek to increase the number and effectiveness of organizations assisting the Refuge System nationwide.