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Conservation Innovation Grants

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Conservation Innovation for America's Working Lands.

Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) are competitive grants that drive public and private sector innovation in resource conservation. Authorized by the 2002 Farm Bill, CIG uses Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funds to award competitive grants to non-Federal governmental or nongovernmental organizations, American Indian Tribes, or individuals. Producers involved in CIG funded projects must be EQIP eligible.

Through the NRCS CIG program, public and private grantees develop the tools, technologies, and strategies to support next-generation conservation efforts on working lands and develop market-based solutions to resource challenges. Grantees leverage the federal investment by at least matching it.

The NRCS understands the importance of supporting historically underserved, new and beginning, and military veteran producers in farming and ranching because these producers are critical to the fabric of American agriculture and to our rural communities. Annually, approximately 10% of CIG funding is set aside to support these farmers and ranchers. 

CIG projects inspire creative problem-solving that boosts production on farms, ranches, and private forests - ultimately they improve water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat.

On June 8, 2017, the NRCS announced that the agency will award more than $22.6 million to 33 projects nationwide through its CIG program in 2017.  The 2017 CIG awards bring the total NRCS investment to nearly $286.7 million for 711 projects since 2004.​  Learn more and view the project list.

CIG Program Components

 


National Competition

A CIG funding notice is announced each year. Funds for single- or multi-year projects, not to exceed three years, are awarded through a nationwide competitive grants process. Projects may be watershed-based, regional, multi-state or nationwide in scope. The natural resource concerns eligible for funding through CIG are identified in the funding announcement and may change annually to focus on new and emerging, high priority natural resource concerns.

State Competition

The CIG state component emphasizes projects that benefit a limited geographical area. Participating states announce their funding availability for CIG competitions through their state NRCS offices. For additional information about State CIG competitions, please contact your State NRCS office or search for the latest postings here.

Additional Resources




 

CIG Fact Sheet 
CIG Congressional Report
CIG Success Stories 

Program Contact

nrcscig@wdc.usda.gov