Illinois EPA Unveils $5 Million Nonpoint Source Pollution Grant Opportunity

On July 23, 2026, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) announced an exciting funding opportunity with a total of $5 million allocated under the Section 319(h) Grant Program. This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of nonpoint source pollution prevalent across multiple watersheds in Illinois. By offering financial support for projects that focus on effective management practices, the Illinois EPA is encouraging local organizations and consultants to engage in strategies that will enhance water quality and promote sustainable environmental practices.

Nonpoint source pollution is a significant concern, as it often arises from rainfall or snowmelt moving over and through the ground, picking up contaminants along the way. The Illinois EPA's Section 319 program specifically aims to support efforts that mitigate these pollutants through watershed-based planning, public education, and effective monitoring strategies. The funded projects may involve a range of activities, from educational initiatives aimed at raising public awareness regarding pollution control to hands-on implementation of best management practices tailored to local conditions.

Interested organizations must submit their grant applications by September 16, 2026, marking a specific deadline that stakeholders in the environmental sector should be aware of. This timeline places considerable importance on prompt project planning and proposal development to ensure compliance with the grant requirements. Organizations are encouraged to submit their detailed plans that specifically meet the outlined criteria of the grant, which emphasizes community involvement and tangible outcomes in water quality improvements.

Kim Biggs of the Illinois EPA is serving as the key contact for potential applicants, providing a direct line for inquiries and assistance. Interested parties can reach Kim at 217-558-1536 or via email at kim.biggs@illinois.gov. Organizations wishing to apply must ensure their projects focus on one or more of the grant's core areas: watershed planning, educational initiatives, monitoring protocols, or implementation of recognized industry best practices in pollution control. This focus will increase their competitiveness and alignment with the Illinois EPA’s objectives.

In summary, this grant opportunity marks an essential step towards enhancing Illinois' environmental sustainability efforts, encouraging organizations to deepen their commitment to combating the challenges posed by nonpoint source pollution. Stakeholders in the environmental sector should consider this funding opportunity as a key strategy to foster innovative solutions and collaborative projects aimed at protecting Illinois’ water resources.

• This grant opportunity is relevant for environmental consulting firms, watershed organizations, and contractors specializing in pollution control and environmental education.
• Procurement professionals should note the specific focus areas to align proposals with Illinois EPA priorities and increase competitiveness.
• The contact point for inquiries is Kim Biggs at the Illinois EPA, reachable via phone at 217-558-1536 or email at kim.biggs@illinois.gov.
• Organizations planning to participate should prepare detailed project plans addressing watershed planning, monitoring, or best management practices to meet grant criteria.
• Proposals focused on community engagement and public education may have a competitive advantage.
• Implementing measurable monitoring strategies is vital to demonstrate the grant project's impact and efficacy.
• Ensure all project plans highlight long-term sustainability and stakeholder involvement for enhanced approval likelihood.