Grant Opportunities for Waterfront Improvements, Boating Safety

Waterfront Challenge Grants
The Waterfront Challenge is a grant program for boaters to take steps to help improve their local waterfronts. Eight grants of $5,000 to $25,000 will be awarded to support grassroot efforts by boaters to create sustainable-waterfront environmental improvements in their communities. Some ideas include cleaning up a beach or river bank, rebuilding a handicap-accessible dock, or any small-scale projects that could result in effective waterfront improvements. A flotilla or an individual could apply for grants to be awarded at the Miami International Boat Show in February, 2009. Project deadline is November 5, 2008.

http://www.wfchallenge.com

Boating Safety Grants
The non-profit BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water has set aside another $50,000 for its Boating Safety grant program that helps neighborhood groups develop innovative projects that promote safe boating on local waterways. Grants of up to $4,000 to local community organizations and nonprofit groups for boating-safety projects are available and applications are due November 1.

This year's grant program topic is alcohol and boating.  While it is not a requirement, grant proposals that focus on how to reduce alcohol-related fatalities will be given additional consideration. Grants will be awarded in late January 2009. Interested nonprofit groups such as boat and yacht clubs, flotillas and squadrons can download an application and get more information at http://www.BoatUS.com/foundation or call 703-461-2878, ext. 8354.