F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes States - Fiscal Year 2026 Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering competitive grants under the Fiscal Year 2026 Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to support the implementation of State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. The program aims to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species within the Great Lakes Basin, with a total estimated funding pool of up to 3,685,238 dollars. Individual awards are expected to range from 100,000 to 600,000 dollars, with approximately eight awards anticipated. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states or their designees, as well as local and tribal governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions. The anticipated period of performance runs from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2028. Applications are due by December 31, 2026, and must be submitted through a two-step process involving an initial email pre-proposal followed by a full proposal via GrantSolutions. Evaluation is based on a pass/fail budget and risk assessment, followed by a merit review focusing on interagency coordination, infiltration prevention, and early detection efforts. Recipients must adhere to strict reporting requirements, including semi-annual accomplishments based on GLRI Performance Measures and financial reporting via form SF-425. Projects are subject to rigorous environmental and regulatory reviews, including NEPA compliance, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. Additionally, infrastructure projects must comply with regulations regarding the use of American iron, steel, and manufactured products.