2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program

The intent of the National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share grant program is to advance solutions to the economic, health, and environmental challenges faced by communities. This year’s program focuses on advancing community tree resource utilization, which can reduce waste and create value by turning wood generated from pruning, removals, storm events, and pest or disease outbreaks into useful products. These products may include lumber, slabs, furniture, flooring, biochar, or other materials that strengthen local economies, reduce disposal costs, and improve community resilience. The program seeks practical, creative, and replicable projects that help communities establish or expand wood‑utilization efforts. Competitive proposals will demonstrate how the project supports existing community forestry plans, applies industry‑recognized safety and tree‑care standards, and delivers clear economic, environmental, or workforce benefits. Projects should outline anticipated wood products, partnerships with professional or industry organizations, and opportunities for job creation, training, or certification. This program is intended for communities and their partners seeking to improve the management and use of their urban and community forests. Eligible applicants include state, local, and tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and other community‑based partners. Projects must conform to laws and authorities in Section 9 of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act ([16 U.S.C. 2105] Urban and Community Forestry Assistance) as amended.

Most grants are approved based on negotiated targets or objectives to be achieved. UCF State grants are based on local needs and resources. The national grant program selects proposals based on the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council's criteria established for a given year and national application.

This program has no statutory formula. Matching requirements are determined by the Washington Office. If matching funds are required, the funds cannot come from Federal Sources. Cooperator matches may be non-Federal cash, in-kind and non-cash contributions.MOE requirements are not applicable to this assistance listing.

Fiscal Year2025: Community Tree Inventory and Management Plan A regional government conducts a comprehensive inventory of urban trees, assessing species, health, and canopy coverage. The data is used to develop a long-term management plan that prioritizes tree preservation, storm resilience, and strategic planting in low canopy areas. Urban Heat Island Mitigation A city partners with local nonprofits to plant and maintain thousands of shade trees along streets and in public parks to reduce heat island effects. The project includes installing permeable ground covers and educating residents on tree care to improve energy efficiency and air quality.