Strengthening Public Lands Stewardship
When we invest in Friends groups, we invest in the future of New York’s parks, trails, and historic sites. Park and Trail Partnership Grants ensure that community voices continue to shape and sustain the public spaces we all love.
The Park and Trail Partnership Grants program supports the work of non-profit organizations, often called Friends groups, that help maintain, improve, and promote New York’s public lands.
Administered by Parks & Trails New York in partnership with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Department of Environmental Conservation, this competitive grant program strengthens the vital role that grassroots groups play in stewarding our public lands.
Since its launch in 2015, the program has awarded over $9.9 million in funding, helping more than 90 Friends groups increase their impact, expand their reach, and enhance the visitor experience across the state.
The Round 12 application period opens in Spring 2026!
how to apply
Applying for a Park and Trail Partnership Grant is easy–no fundraising experience required. Whether your Friends group is just starting out or already established, our user-friendly online portal makes the application process simple.
grant categories
There are four types of competitive grants available to eligible non-profit organizations through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant Program.
park & Trail Partnership grants at a glance
view past projects
Projects funded by the Park & Trail Partnership Grants have built new interpretive trails at historic sites, created ADA-accessible amenities for park visitors, funded restoration of historic structures and habitats, and more.