The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program (PFW) for FY2024 is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). This program is focused on providing technical and financial assistance to private landowners to support habitat restoration projects benefiting fish and wildlife. The program is voluntary and aims to foster locally led conservation efforts through partnerships with various stakeholders, including federal, state, and local agencies, non-profits, and tribal entities.

The primary objective of the PFW program is to restore and conserve habitats for species that are of significant conservation concern, including federally listed endangered species, Birds of Conservation Concern, pollinators, and fish species that traverse multiple jurisdictions. Projects under this program also prioritize habitat connectivity, helping to establish corridors for wildlife movement, and aim to create resilient ecosystems that can withstand the effects of climate change. The program also aligns with broader U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Department of the Interior priorities, promoting biodiversity and scientifically sound conservation practices.

The program has a total funding amount of $15 million available, with the maximum individual award set at $750,000 and the minimum award as low as $1. Awards are made on a rolling basis between October 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024. The program expects to distribute up to 500 awards, depending on the number of eligible projects and available funding. Recipients can receive either a grant or a cooperative agreement, depending on the level of federal involvement.

Eligible applicants include a wide variety of entities, including state, county, city, and tribal governments, school districts, non-profit organizations (both with and without 501(c)(3) status), higher education institutions, individuals, and private businesses. However, projects must be implemented primarily on private lands, though some exceptions may apply for activities supporting private land conservation.

Although cost-sharing is not mandatory, the program encourages applicants to contribute matching funds to leverage federal funding, with a suggested target of at least a 1:1 ratio of non-federal to federal contributions. Matching funds can be in the form of monetary or in-kind contributions, and the program works with applicants throughout the year to develop mutually beneficial conservation projects.

To apply, applicants are encouraged to consult with their local PFW program office prior to submission to ensure alignment with conservation priorities and funding criteria. All applications must be submitted through the GrantSolutions portal. The application must include the Standard Form 424 (SF-424), a project narrative, a budget form (SF-424A), and other required documents such as a project abstract summary and a budget narrative. Applicants requesting more than $100,000 must also include a certification regarding lobbying.

Review criteria prioritize projects that support the objectives of the FWS and DOI, particularly those that complement activities on National Wildlife Refuge System lands, benefit species at risk, or align with regional strategic conservation plans. Secondary priorities include collaboration with state agencies, habitat connectivity, and projects that address climate resiliency. Special consideration is given to projects benefiting tribal or underserved communities.

The application deadline is December 31, 2024, with a rolling review process that means awards can be made at any time before that date. Potential applicants are encouraged to submit as early as possible to maximize their chances of funding.

Applicants should also be aware of reporting requirements, including financial and performance reporting, and should prepare to maintain thorough records of their expenditures and project progress to comply with federal guidelines.