Renewable Natural Resources Foundation (RNRF) Grant Opportunities

  • Limited
  • Anywhere
  • May 15, 2026

Website Renewable Natural Resources Foundation (RNRF)

We are pleased to share a new limited funding opportunity from the Renewable Natural Resources Foundation (RNRF), which supports multidisciplinary, multisector collaborations addressing renewable natural resource challenges. These grants are intended to advance projects that apply evidence-based research to real-world settings and generate meaningful impact in the field and in communities.

Important:
Each department may submit only one application total (across both grant types).
Faculty should not submit independently—instead please coordinate with your Department Chair, who will oversee and approve the department’s single submission. If you have questions about the process, you may also contact Marianne Smith.

Grant Opportunities (Letters of Intent due May 15)

Planning and Small Grants

Support early-stage collaboration and project development, including planning and feasibility work.

  • Amount: Up to $50,000
  • Duration: Up to 12 months
  • Requirements: At least three multidisciplinary collaborators (including the applicant); at least one project lead or key personnel must be affiliated with an RNRF Member Organization.

Implementation and Collaboration Grants

Support established collaborative projects focused on applying research in real-world settings.

  • Amount: $50,000–$200,000
  • Duration: 12–36 months
  • Requirements: At least three multidisciplinary collaborators (including the applicant); at least one project lead or key personnel must be affiliated with an RNRF Member Organization.

Focus Areas

  • Air Quality and Atmospheric Sciences
  • Ecosystem and Biodiversity Conservation
  • Ecosystem, Soil, and Land Remediation and Restoration
  • Circular Materials, Recycling, and Waste Systems
  • Regenerative Agriculture and Soil Health
  • Renewable Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure
  • Water Quantity and Quality

Submission Details

Applications must list the organization as:
The Regents of the University of California (UC Irvine – Department of X)

For full details, please review the RFP. We encourage interested faculty to connect with their Department Chair as soon as possible to discuss interest and next steps.

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