U.S. Endowment Launches Roots & Reach Mini-Grants for Forestry Students

New program will support student-led forestry projects, career awareness and creative storytelling

The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (the Endowment) is inviting undergraduate forestry and natural resources clubs to apply for Roots & Reach, a new mini-grant program supporting hands-on forestry engagement and creative communication.

The Endowment will award six mini-grants of up to $5,000 each to student clubs at accredited colleges and universities across the United States. Projects may take place during the fall 2026 or spring 2027 academic semester.

Roots & Reach is designed to help students strengthen connections between people and forests while encouraging greater awareness of forestry careers and educational opportunities. Selected projects must combine a forestry-focused activity with a media component that documents the work and shares its impact.

“Forestry students bring enthusiasm, creativity and an important perspective to the future of our working forests. Roots & Reach will give students an opportunity to put their knowledge into practice, serve their communities and help more people understand the many career paths and possibilities within forestry.”

Pete Madden

CEO & President, U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities

Eligible forestry activities may include tree planting, invasive species removal, trail work, youth education programs, Forestry Field Days, reforestation projects, forest health initiatives or career exploration events.

The application period is open from August 26, 2026, through October 22, 2026.

Roots & Reach advances the Endowment’s mission to strengthen and sustain healthy forest product markets while supporting working forests and the communities that rely on them. By investing in student leadership and communication, the program will help prepare the next generation of forestry professionals while sharing authentic stories about forests, careers and community partnerships.

To learn more or apply, visit the Endowment’s grantee portal.

About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities. To learn more about the Endowment, please visit our website at www.usendowment.org.