The Water Conservation Grant Fund (WCGF) is a funding opportunity authorized by the Arizona Office of the Governor and administered by the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA). This grant program aims to support projects and programs that promote water conservation across Arizona. The total funding available for the 2025 grant cycle is $14.1 million. All funded projects must be fully completed, with funds entirely drawn by June 30, 2026. The initiative seeks to enhance water sustainability through conservation efforts, education, and infrastructure improvements.

Eligible applicants can receive financial assistance for various conservation activities. Conservation projects may receive up to $250,000 in grant funding, while conservation programs may qualify for up to $3 million. A mandatory 25% match is required for each grant award, which may come from any non-WIFA funding source. The grant supports a broad array of conservation activities, including community incentives for water-efficient landscaping, groundwater recharge initiatives, infrastructure efficiency upgrades, and research programs aimed at reducing water consumption. Additionally, funding may be used for projects that address water overuse issues and promote long-term water sustainability.

The application process for WCGF includes an online application submission, which can be accessed through WIFA’s official website. Applicants should ensure that their proposals align with the grant’s goals and demonstrate measurable water conservation benefits. The selection process is overseen by the Water Conservation Grant Committee, an eight-member board comprising representatives from various sectors, including water management, advocacy, academia, and conservation districts. The committee ensures fair representation of different regions and stakeholders across Arizona.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the feasibility, impact, and sustainability of their proposed projects. Prioritization will be given to projects that demonstrate significant water savings, have a clear community impact, and align with state conservation goals. WIFA has provided additional resources, such as a Notice of Funding Opportunity, application worksheets, and webinars, to guide potential applicants through the process.

The application window for the 2025 funding round is currently open, with important submission deadlines outlined in the funding announcement. Interested parties are encouraged to review all relevant documents and attend informational webinars to enhance their understanding of the requirements. Previous grant cycles have successfully funded a wide range of projects, including advanced water metering systems, agricultural system upgrades, water-efficient fixtures, and large-scale turf removal initiatives.

For further information, applicants can contact WIFA directly. Additional details, including the application link, FAQs, and webinar recordings, can be found on WIFA’s website. Organizations seeking funding should prepare their applications carefully to maximize their chances of receiving support for their water conservation projects.