Exploring and Enhancing Outdoor and Heritage Tourism in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

The National Park Service’s Chesapeake Gateways Network is issuing a competitive grant to strengthen outdoor recreation, heritage, and cultural tourism within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to 26 awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 will fund projects that (1) enhance visitor experiences, (2) link tourism to local economic impact, and (3) celebrate the region’s natural and historic assets, with a special emphasis on America’s 250th‑anniversary events. Eligible applicants include state, county, city, tribal, nonprofit, higher‑education, and for‑profit entities that are non‑federal members of the Chesapeake Gateways Network. Applications are submitted electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 PM ET on 4 Nov 2026. • Funding: $1 M total, $10‑$50 k per award (two award ranges: $25‑$50 k for tourism‑impact projects, $10‑$20 k for community events). • Eligible entities: state, local, tribal, nonprofit (501(c)(3) and non‑501(c)(3)), higher‑education, for‑profit (excluding small businesses). Must be a Chesapeake Gateways Network member or in the process of becoming one. • No cost‑share required; no construction (except structural improvements) or land acquisition. • Required registrations: SAM.gov UEI, Grants.gov workspace. • Review: eligibility screening, merit review, risk review; award notifications after 4 Nov 2026. • Reporting: interim and final financial and performance reports; final report due 120 days after project end.