NY State Environmental Education Grants (NYSDEC)
New York State DEC grants supporting K-12 environmental education programs across the state.
About This Grant
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) funds environmental education programs that connect K-12 students to New York's natural resources. Grants support classroom programs, outdoor learning, and hands-on science projects that build student understanding of ecosystems, climate, water, and conservation.
This is a strong funding source for schools that want to integrate environmental science with coding and data collection. Programs that use technology to monitor weather, track biodiversity, or collect water quality data align well with NYSDEC's stated priorities.
View NYSDEC Environmental Education GrantsEligibility
- New York public and private K-12 schools
- Nonprofit organizations providing environmental education
- Conservation organizations working with schools
- Programs focused on New York ecosystems, watersheds, and natural resources
Allowable Uses
- Hands-on science and environmental monitoring equipment
- Environmental science curriculum and materials
- Outdoor learning programs and field experiences
- Teacher professional development in environmental education
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- CHARGE Climate Sensor Kit — Hands-on environmental data collection kit. Students measure temperature, humidity, and atmospheric data using physical computing. Strong fit for NYSDEC's emphasis on environmental monitoring and stewardship.
- Coding for Climate Kit — Climate and environmental science curriculum connected to coding. Students learn to collect and analyze real environmental data. Direct alignment to NYSDEC environmental education priorities.
- Smart Hydroponics Kit — Food systems and sustainable agriculture STEM kit. Connects to NY's environmental standards around land use, food systems, and sustainability.
Keep in Mind
NYSDEC grants favor programs tied to New York's specific natural resources. Reference local watersheds, forests, or coastal ecosystems in your application.
Programs that combine classroom learning with field-based or outdoor experiences score higher under NYSDEC criteria.
Environmental monitoring and data collection projects - measuring air quality, water temperature, or biodiversity - align directly with NYSDEC's scientific approach to environmental education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for NYSDEC environmental education grants?
New York K-12 schools, nonprofits, and conservation organizations providing environmental education programs.
How much funding is available?
Awards typically range from $10,000 to $100,000. Check current NYSDEC guidelines for the latest award ranges.
Can funds be used for science sensors and coding kits?
Yes, when the tools support hands-on environmental data collection and learning. Document how each item supports your program's environmental education goals.
When is the application deadline?
NYSDEC opens applications annually. Check dec.ny.gov for current opportunities and deadlines.
How can Forward Education help?
We provide curriculum alignment documents showing how our kits connect to environmental science standards, pricing letters, and letters of support for your application.
Related New York Grants
Explore more New York funding resources
View all New York AI & CS grants →Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — NY CS & Digital Fluency Standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence — ready-to-use program outlines
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
Get the Grant Guide
