Apply Now for 2026 Strategic Planning Grants
Strategic planning is an essential activity for conservation districts. Building for Tomorrow encourages districts to regularly re-evaluate and update their plans, and supports districts by offering grants to offset costs associated with strategic planning activities. The State Conservation Commission has allocated funding for grants to reimburse up to a maximum of $1,500 in expenses related to the development of a strategic plan for the 2025-26 program year. Districts should submit a Letter of Intent by December 23, 2025. Visit Building for Tomorrow for more information.
On October 15, Ryan Szuch of Grow Conservation LLC presented a webinar that provides a good starting point for districts thinking about creating or updating a strategic plan. Right-Sizing Your Strategic Planning Process includes an overview of strategic planning for conservation districts, including scope and budgeting, with simple options for districts to evaluate when considering how to best invest their time and money to address priority challenges.
Financial and other support for the Building for Tomorrow Leadership Development Program is provided through a grant from the Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission. Guidance for the Program is provided through the Pennsylvania Conservation Partnership’s Leadership Development Committee.