Grants to support watersheds

Watershed Stewardship Grants (WSG) help fund projects that benefit the City's watersheds and sewer infrastructure.

We've summarized 3 key requirements for funding below. This is a summary and doesn't replace the detailed requirements in the application and contract agreement. 

1. Your organization is a nonprofit. 

We only give grants to vendor-approved nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) status. The grant contractor must be a City supplier. Get more information on becoming a supplier.  

Local community groups, businesses, or schools applying for a grant must have a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

2. The project will improve San Francisco's watersheds and sewer infrastructure.

Your project must be in a publicly visible or accessible space. It must do at least one of these:

• Harvest and use rainwater
• Remove impervious surfaces
• Implement green stormwater infrastructure (like rain gardens, permeable pavement, or bioretention planters)  

3. The community will contribute to the project.

The community must match a percentage of the budget you apply for. The match can be in cash, volunteer labor (valued at $25 per hour), donated materials or supplies, or services. 

There are 2 levels of funding with different match requirements.

Budget of $15,000 to $75,000

The contract period may be between 9 and 12 months. You must have a match of at least 35% of the grant value. 

Budget of $75,001 to $150,000

The contract period may be between 12 and 18 months. You must have a match of at least 25% of the grant value.