PECO, in partnership with Natural Lands, recently opened applications for the 2025-2026 PECO Green Region Open Space program. The program provides competitive grants of up to $10,000 for incorporated nonprofits in Philadelphia and suburban municipalities within PECO’s service area.
The funding supports a variety of projects aimed at preserving, protecting, and improving publicly accessible open spaces and natural areas. Since its inception in 2004, the PECO Green Region Open Space program has awarded more than $3 million in funding to more than 400 individual open space improvement projects, including those that combat climate change and enhance community vitality.
“Our commitment to the PECO Green Region program goes beyond environmental stewardship; it’s about investing directly in the quality of life across the communities we serve,” said Carniesha Kwashie, PECO’s Director of Corporate and Community Impact. “Green spaces are essential to the health and vitality of our region, they support local sustainability goals, create accessible places for neighbors to connect, and reinforce our dedication to building a cleaner, brighter future for everyone.”
Grant Focus and Eligibility
Funding is available to cover expenses for projects that enhance environmental stewardship and community access to nature. Examples of eligible projects include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Enhancing tree cover and natural resources protection
- Drafting an open space plan for community lands
- Implementing or improving trails and parks
All grant applications must provide a dollar-for-dollar match. Please note that staff salaries and in-kind or volunteer hours are not considered eligible match funds.
Application and Deadline
The application deadline for the 2025-2026 grant round is 5 PM on Friday, Nov. 7.
To learn more about the program guidelines, view examples of past projects, and submit an application, please visit Natural Lands. You can also email [email protected] with any questions.
