New Jersey American Water Launches 2026 AWCF Water and Environment Grant Program

The foundation invites community partners to apply for grants that promote clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability and water-based recreation projects.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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New Jersey American Water is launching the 2026 American Water Charitable Foundation Water and Environment Grant Program. The foundation is accepting applications from community partners for grants that support projects related to clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability, and water-based recreation.

Why it matters

The grant program provides funding to local organizations that are working to protect natural resources, educate the public, and enhance quality of life in the communities served by New Jersey American Water. This aligns with the foundation's mission to support water, people, and communities.

The details

In 2025, the American Water Charitable Foundation awarded $1.7 million in water and environment grants to 80 organizations in 12 states, including 9 New Jersey-based groups. The foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 grant cycle through March 6.

  • The 2026 AWCF Water and Environment Grant Program application period is open until March 6, 2026.

The players

American Water Charitable Foundation

The charitable foundation of American Water, the largest publicly traded water and wastewater utility company in the United States.

Musconetcong Watershed Association

A 2025 recipient of an AWCF Water and Environment grant, the association focuses on protecting and improving the Musconetcong Watershed in New Jersey.

Mark McDonough

President of New Jersey American Water and member of the Board of Trustees of the American Water Charitable Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“The American Water Charitable Foundation's support has allowed the Musconetcong Watershed Association to serve our community with credible, science-based information at a time when residents need it most.”

— Christa Reeves, Director of Watershed Science and Stewardship, Musconetcong Watershed Association

“Across our state, we see firsthand how strong community partnerships can make a meaningful difference for our waterways and the people who depend on them. Through the foundation's water and environment grant program, we're proud to support local organizations that are educating future stewards, protecting natural resources and enhancing quality of life in the communities we serve.”

— Mark McDonough, President, New Jersey American Water

What’s next

Applications for the 2026 AWCF Water and Environment Grant Program will be accepted until March 6, 2026.

The takeaway

The American Water Charitable Foundation's grant program provides critical funding to local organizations in New Jersey that are working to protect the environment, educate the public, and improve quality of life through water-related initiatives.