District of Columbia
The District of Columbia Community Stormwater Solutions Grant Program (DC-CSS) is funded by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). This program provides funding for innovative and community centered projects, that improve the District of Columbia’s waterways, reduce litter, and raise awareness about what we can do to restore our rivers, streams, and parks.
What does this program fund? Activities such as educational events/workshops, installation and maintenance of runoff-reducing green infrastructure, art installations, restoration of habitat, litter or pollution reduction, or other project types that meet the goals of the grant program. Projects should be inspired and supported by the priority community within the District. See the RFA for the full list of eligible project types.
Who can apply? The funding partners welcome requests from the following entities physically located in the District: non-profit organizations, small businesses, schools and universities, government agencies, and more. See the RFA for full list of organizations.
How much can be awarded? Up to $35,000
How much is available in the program? approximately $191,500
Is a match required? In-kind and cash match is not required but can be included, if necessary, to accomplish project goals.
Grant Application Process: The Chesapeake Bay Trust’s applications are all submitted through an online system, using the “New Grant” button to the right.
Grant Application Budget Form: Applicants are required to submit a budget using the “Financial Management Spreadsheet (FMS)” found here.
Green Infrastructure Maintenance Form: the Trust provides a template form for green infrastructure maintenance found here.
Workshops and Webinars
In-Person Information Session
Date: Thursday, January 16th, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: DOEE Offices, 1200 First Street NE, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20002
Virtual Information Session
Date: Wednesday, January 29th, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
To register in advance, please follow this link: Zoom Registration Link
Office Hours
Every Thursday from 2:00 pm- 3:00 pm until February 20th.
To join on Thursdays, please use this link: Office Hours
Program Status: OPEN
Deadline is Thursday, March 13th, 2025, at 4:00 PM EST
Narrative Questions
Other Required Documents
Start a New Application
Get started with a new grant application
Manage an Existing Grant
Manage an existing grant or continue an existing application
Watch Our Information Session
We held a virtual information session on March 6th, 2024 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm ET on Zoom. The session provided an overview of the DC-CSS program, the application process and required documentation, what to expect after your application and resources available to applicants. Click on the video below to watch the session or at https://vimeo.com/920481773?share=copy.
Questions & Technical Support
(English and Spanish)
Marylin Veiman Echeverría
Program Officer for Outreach and Education
mveiman@cbtrust.org
410-974-2941 ext.103
Project Spotlights
Capital Rowing Club
“Row and Clean the Anacostia”
2022 – $34,677
This project increased the accessibility of rowing on the Anacostia River by introducing an accessible boat launch for disabled rowers and providing scholarships for students to learn how to safely row through their “Learn to Row” program.
Ward 8 Woods Conservancy
“Ward 7 Woods Remediation”
2022 – $34,755
This program engaged 6 Park Stewards and 126 volunteers to remove over 44,000 pounds of trash within roughly 120 acres of forest, which can improve soil and water quality, protect wildlife, and restore the scenic appeal of parklands. By cutting invasive vines from over 400 native trees, they helped preserve tree canopy and enhance the forest’s ability to soak up and filter stormwater, clean air, lower summer temperatures, and store carbon.
Homes for Hope
“Let it Rain!”
2022 – $30,276
Homes for Hope is a transitional housing program for chronically homeless people who also are challenged with a chronic illness such as HIV/AIDS. This project engaged residents to install 36 rain barrels in their immediate community, increasing water recycling and community awareness.