Many communities benefit from having green spaces and trees to promote outdoor recreation, access to shaded areas, improved air quality, improved mental and physical health, and livability. Ultimately, this initiative will empower communities that have felt disenfranchised to take ownership with the tools needed to improve access to natural resources that connect their neighborhoods to a healthy, greener environment for current and future generations.
What this funds: Communities that would like to implement small tree planting projects are encouraged to seek support and funding through this opportunity.
Regions of the State in Which Tree Planting Projects Can Occur: Tree planting proposed must occur in urban areas with low median household income levels, high unemployment, and neighborhoods with housing projects or that were historically red-lined at any time.
Who can apply: Non-profit organizations, community and homeowner associations, faith-based organizations, and more. Please see the Notice of Intent to Fund for full list of organizations.
How much can be awarded: Request Amounts: Up to $5,000
Is match required? Match is encouraged but not required.
Application Resources
The Mini Urban Trees Award Program was developed to fund small tree- planting projects in urban, underserved areas across Maryland. This program encourages all organizations, experienced and novice, to apply! The resources below were curated to give you all necessary tools to create competitive and comprehensive applications. While not required, we highly encourage you to make use of the provided resources.
The Chesapeake Bay Trust’s grant applications are all submitted through an online system. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact this program’s grant assistant, Bridget Robey, at 410-974-2941 ext. 117.
Creating a Successful Application Slideshow
Reference the linked slideshow to gather an understanding of the different components we look for when reviewing applications. This slide show provides information about the Urban Trees Grant Program, the grant application process, and tricks and tricks for submitting a robust, competitive proposal.
The linked guide provides suggested steps needed to develop a successful project.
Informational Webinar
Watch the video below for a recording of a virtual workshop held by the Chesapeake Bay Trust on February 3, 2023, for interested applicants to learn more Urban Trees Grant Program, the grant application process, and tips and tricks for submitting a robust, competitive proposal.
Native Plant Nurseries in Maryland
Linked is a list of nurseries in Maryland that sell native trees. This resource can be used to develop your plant list and budget as well as provide you with a plant vendor for your project.
Linked is a list of contractors in Maryland. The list is organized to allow you to find contractors who can provide the following services: tree planting site identification, species selection, tree purchasing, utilities and other restrictions, impervious removal, site preparation, planting, and maintenance.
Linked is an example of a robust, competitive project budget. It provides all the necessary information we look for when reviewing application budgets. Please note that while budgets are not required at the time of application, it will greatly supplement the strength of your application. Additionally, budgets are required before your project can be awarded.
Linked is an example of a comprehensive tree list. It provides all the necessary information we look for when reviewing applications. Please note that while a tree list is not required at the time of application, it will be required before funds are released and will greatly supplement the strength of your application.
Find a Native Plant Nursery Near You
Applicants applying to the Urban Trees Grant Program interested in nursery and landscape service providers by county can use the link below. Applicants are not required to use the provided services.
Grant Questions & Technical Support
Lianna Gomori-Ruben
lgomori-ruben@cbtrust.org
(410) 974-2941 x112
View the Trust’s Application Accessibility Statement