Collaborative Capacity Program for Forests & Communities
Competitive Grant Programs
Collaborative Capacity Program (CCP) financial awards invest in collaborative activities that support wildfire resilience, recreation opportunities, land & watershed restoration, and rural economies. This year’s program funds projects that prioritize shared decision-making and bring together multiple perspectives to co-create solutions for forest stewardship or increase Tribal co-stewardship of our National Forests and Grasslands.
Key Dates
- February 2026: Application period opens for 2026 projects
- March 26, 2026: Informational Webinar and Q&A for all applicants
- May 4, 2026: Deadline for Community Partner Applicants
- June 16, 2026: Q&A for Tribal Applicants
- July 13, 2026: Deadline for Tribal Applicants
- October 2026: Funding decisions announced
2026 CCP Program Overview
- Award Amount: $20,000 – $50,000
- Geography: Proposals will be accepted from throughout the United States where there is a clear benefit to National Forest System lands.
- Funding Source: Federal funds via the U.S. Forest Service.
- Eligible Applicants: Federally recognized Tribal governments and federally recognized Tribal organizations; nonprofit organizations; local government entities; colleges and universities. If your organization or collaborative group does not meet this eligibility requirement, it may utilize an eligible fiscal sponsor.
- Matching Requirements: 20% non-federal cash or in-kind match is required.
- Number of Awards: 10-15 awards.
- Performance Period: Activities funded in this round will begin in October 2026 and may run for 12 months.
- Eligible Use of Funds: Funding must support collaboration or collaboration-based activities that aim to benefit National Forest System lands through co-creating solutions for future management decisions.
- Ineligible Use of Funds: CCP may not support on-the-ground project implementation, advocacy, litigation, or political organizing.
Applicant Resources
If you have reviewed the RFP and still have questions about program eligibility, feel free to contact the NFF. Requesting feedback from NFF staff about eligibility is encouraged to ensure you are submitting a proposal that will not be disqualified. Be sure to reach out well in advance of the deadline to ensure there is time to answer your questions.
Additional resources include:
The NFF convened an Advisory Committee with a broad range of perspectives and experience, including collaborative conservation, rural capacity building, Tribal and Indigenous stewardship and co-stewardship, and outdoor recreation, for several months to influence the design of the CCP. We appreciate their expertise and guidance in developing this program.