The Healthy Harbors Grant Program will make grants for the benefit of water quality in the Charleston harbor and surrounding environment. Applications will be accepted from organizations/projects with a primary focus on water quality related to pollution and environmental changes in the greater Charleston area. This focus may include, but is not limited to: pollution action, academic research, data collection, citizen science, education, advocacy, litigation, and/or narrative creation involving:

  • Plastics
  • Bacteria
  • Emerging contaminants
  • Pesticides, herbicides
  • Marsh and land erosion
  • Climate change and climate resilience
  • Coastal flooding and its implications on public health

Average award: Average not yet determined.
Deadline: 11:59 p.m. February 1 or the next business day if the date falls on a weekend.

Criteria for eligibility

  • Eligibility for this program is limited to organizations working within Berkeley, Charleston and/or Dorchester counties whose projects have a primary benefit to the Charleston Harbor area and surrounding communities.

    Priority is given to organizations with small to mid-sized operational budgets of $1,000,000 or less and activities that are reflective of & involve the community served. There is special encouragement from small organizations, including neighborhood groups, to apply.

Application process and schedule

  • Applicants will apply through our online portal beginning in December. A committee comprised of individuals with particular expertise in environmental concerns and water quality issues will consider the applications and make recommendations, and final decisions will be announced in March.