OHIO — The Ohio Lake Erie Commission announced the second round of funding for the Lake Erie Community Grant is now accepting applications. 

What You Need To Know

The funding is through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which aims to support community-driven projects that help protect and improve the Lake Erie watershed

Those who apply could be awarded one of five grants up to $75,000, or one grant worth up to $750,000

The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026

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The funding is through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which aims to support community-driven projects that help protect and improve the Lake Erie watershed, according to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. 

“This funding opportunity empowers communities within the Lake Erie watershed to take action on projects that advance the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative,” said U. S. EPA Great Lakes National Program Director Teresa Seidel. “U. S. EPA looks forward to the transformative impact these applicants can bring to the area to foster environmental resilience and community vitality.”

The funds can help communities restore habitats, combat invasive species and clean or divert storm water with infrastructure techniques. 

Those who apply could be awarded one of five grants up to $75,000, or one grant worth up to $750,000. 

The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026. The application, as well as grant guidelines, can be found on the OLEC’s website. Applicants are encouraged to engage communities by “identifying needs, shaping project goals and participating in implementation to ensure long-term success and local ownership.”

“This grant program is about turning local ideas into real impact,” OLEC Executive Director Joy Mulinex said. “By investing in community-driven projects, we’re building a stronger, healthier Lake Erie.”