National Environmental Education and Training Program

Background
The National Environmental Education and Training Program is authorized under Section 5 of the National Environmental Education Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-619). The purpose of this program is to deliver environmental education (EE) training and long-term support to formal and non-formal education professionals across the U.S. in the development and delivery of environmental education and training programs. This bolsters their ability to effectively teach about environmental issues. Eligibility for funding is open to U.S. institutions of higher education, not-for-profit institutions as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, which are exempt from taxation pursuant to provisions of section 501(a) of such Code. A consortium of such institutions may apply to operate this program.

Grant Details
The program aims to provide and build national capacity for environmental education training for education professionals across the U.S., enabling them to effectively teach about environmental issues. Training may be provided for both formal educators (classroom teachers, faculty at colleges) and non-formal educators (museum educators, nature center staff). Activities include professional learning activities such as classes, online courses, workshops, seminars, and conferences designed to prepare education professionals. The program encourages applicants to address funding priorities including Environmental Stewardship, Outdoor Education, Environmental Risk Issue Investigations, and AI-Enhanced Environmental Education. Expected outputs include delivering in-service educator training, pre-service educator training, supporting state infrastructure for teaching about environmental issues, developing materials review processes for high-quality educational materials, and supporting accreditation efforts.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include U.S. institutions of higher education or nonprofit organizations as defined in Section 501(c)(3). Ineligible entities include for-profit organizations and individual educators or community members. Applicants must demonstrate how they will meet a cost share requirement of at least 25% of the total project amount.

Period of Performance
The project period is expected to last two years with an anticipated start date no earlier than April 2026.

Grant Value
$4,740,000 total funding available with one anticipated award; funding will be incrementally provided up to $2,370,000 annually over two years.

Place of Performance
Activities must take place within the United States or a U.S. territory.