Coastal Steward Grant: $100 for Shoreline Action

The Coastal Steward Grant is a quick boost for small projects that protect local coasts. Use it to run a focused cleanup, build a simple outreach piece, or collect a few useful data points that guide the next step.

What we fund

• Cleanup supplies: gloves, bags, grabbers, buckets

• Simple signage or handouts that explain “storm drain to reef”

• Basic water or litter survey materials

• Local transit or modest rideshare for volunteers

• Small refreshments for volunteers, non-alcoholic only

• Permitted micro projects like drain stenciling with city approval

What we do not fund

• Tuition, wages, or general stipends

• Alcohol, gift cards, or prizes with no learning value

• High-end gear or electronics

• Travel not tied to the activity

• Projects without a plan or safety basics

Who should apply

• Students, club leaders, and community organizers

• People who can plan a clear, small action and follow through

• Coralite interns are welcome to apply, but Coralite status is not required and does not guarantee funding

What you deliver

• A short recap, 200 to 400 words, of what you did and why it mattered

• 5 to 10 photos or screenshots we can share

• Simple numbers like attendance, bags filled, items tallied, or drains stenciled

• Any mini dataset or map you created, with a one-page method note

How to apply

Email us to request the Coastal Steward Grant application and submit your idea.

• Write to projectanchordown@gmail.com with the subject Coastal Steward Grant + Your Name

• Include your CV or resume and 3 to 5 sentences describing the activity, date, place, and what the $100 will cover

• We will send the application form and next steps

How the money works

We can reimburse with receipts or make a direct purchase when possible. We will confirm what fits your plan so you can stay focused on the work.

Safety and permissions

Use gloves, hydrate, and follow local rules. Get city or campus approval for any stenciling or installations. Skip dangerous items and report hazards to the proper authority.

Simple ideas we like

• A targeted cleanup of one storm drain zone with a quick litter tally and before and after photos

• A tabling session that teaches reef-safe habits with a one-pager students can take home

• A small shoreline survey that maps hotspots and points to the next cleanup

• A campus drain-stencil day with approved messaging and a short photo log

Questions or ready to request the applicationEmail projectanchordown@gmail.com. Tell us what you want to do and what you need. We will point you to the right next step.