Eligibility

California K-12 public and private schools, school districts, and youth-serving nonprofit organizations may apply. Programs must take students to California coastal areas for outdoor education, environmental science, or stewardship activities. Schools serving underserved communities with limited coastal access are prioritized.

Program Goals

The Explore the Coast program, administered by the California State Coastal Conservancy, provides grants to schools and organizations to give students meaningful experiences on California's coast. Projects include field trips, beach cleanups, coastal science investigations, and marine ecology studies. The program aims to connect underserved youth to California's coastal environment and build environmental stewardship through direct outdoor experience.

Application and Distribution

Applications are submitted online through the Coastal Conservancy's grant system. The cycle opens November 12, 2026, and closes January 30, 2027. Applications must include a project description, student demographics, coastal site plan, and budget. Priority is given to schools serving low-income and underserved populations with limited prior coastal access.

Cycle Notes

Explore the Coast runs on an annual cycle. The 2026-27 cycle opens November 12, 2026, and closes January 30, 2027. Awards are made for projects running in the spring and fall of the following year. Visit the California State Coastal Conservancy website at scc.ca.gov for current application details.

Grant Award Amount

Explore the Coast grants provide up to $10,000 per project. Funds can be used for transportation to coastal sites, program materials, equipment, and educational resources directly tied to the approved coastal education activity.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Explore the Coast Grants in California?

California K-12 public and private schools, districts, and youth-serving nonprofits may apply. Priority is given to programs serving underserved communities with limited coastal access.

How much funding is available through Explore the Coast?

Grants award up to $10,000 per project. Funds cover transportation, program materials, and equipment for approved coastal education activities.

Can Explore the Coast funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. Explore the Coast funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.

How do California schools apply for Explore the Coast?

Apply online through the Coastal Conservancy grant system during the November 12, 2026 – January 30, 2027 window. Include a project description, student demographics, coastal site plan, and budget.

How can Forward Education help with Explore the Coast funding?

Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for California schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes Explore the Coast funds. Contact us before submitting your application.