DEQ is the state's lead agency for developing and implementing statewide nonpoint source (NPS) pollution control programs and services to prevent degradation of the Commonwealth's water quality and quantity. As such, the agency acquires and disburses various federal, state and nonprofit grant funds.

DEQ administers various NPS grant programs using funds from the federal government, nonprofit organizations or foundations, as well as from Virginia legislature. The agency enters into “sub-agreements” through grants and cooperative agreements, sometimes through Requests for Applications (RFAs).

NPS Grant Program Information

Grant programs have different purposes and guidelines that grantees must adhere to, including:

• NPS Management Implementation Grant Program (Federal)
• Chesapeake Bay Grants Program (Federal)
• Water Quality Improvement Fund – Non-Agricultural Nonpoint (State)

Please see the DEQ Office of Watershed and Local Government Assistance Program’s Funding, Grant and Project Resources webpage for additional details about Current Funding Opportunities, Notices of Intent to Award (NOIA), and Examples of Closed Funding Opportunities.

Request for Applications (RFA) for Nonpoint Source Implementation Projects

On June 5, 2026, DEQ issued a Request for Applications (RFA) for nonpoint source implementation projects, with up to $1.5 million in Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 319(h) grant funding solicited, with an additional up to $2 million designated for septic repair, replacement and connections. Awards are typically in the range of $75,000 to $300,000 per agreement, for up to three years. Local governments, planning district commissions, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, regional commissions, non-profits, and state agencies are eligible to apply.

The application deadline is Aug. 31, 2026, and a webinar for interested applicants will be held June 25, 2026 – register now.

For more information, please visit the Funding, Grant, and Project Resources webpage.