Applications Open for Sustainability Fund Grants

More than $800,000 is available from the Sustainability Fund in the 2025-26 grant cycle for projects that promote environmental sustainability and positively impact the student experience at the University of Maryland. 

Each year the Sustainability Fund allocates money to projects that increase the use of renewable and efficient energy for campus facilities, reduce the amount of waste created on campus, provide hands-on internship experiences and integrate sustainability principles into teaching, research and service. Grants are supported by student fees and administered through the University Sustainability Council. 

For the 2025-26 grant cycle, an additional $25,000 is available to support student research and research-based field trips, courtesy of Maryland Energy Impact Partners. Projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or have other measurable environmental benefits are encouraged.

More than $4.5 million have been awarded to 198 projects since 2011, such as the Biowall at McKeldin Library, the Terp to Terp Campus ReUse Store, the Terps Heart the Tap water bottle refill stations, and the Partnership for Action Learning in Sustainability program. The Sustainability Fund has also contributed to lighting upgrades, gardens and many more impactful projects. Learn more about previous grant recipients. 

Applications for the 2025-26 grant cycle are currently being accepted, with a priority deadline of Oct. 15 and a final deadline of Jan. 15.