February 2025 PA Wilds Partner Opportunities
Editor’s Note: The PA Wilds Partner Opportunities blog is a monthly roundup of opportunities and resources that are offered by partners of the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship. Featured blog content supports Pennsylvania Wilds communities, small businesses and organizations. Regionally focused and time sensitive grant opportunities, technical assistance programs and professional development workshops are examples of the types of resources and opportunities that will be included in this monthly blog. Typically published the second week of each month, this series serves as a real time supplement to the annually produced PA Wilds Resource Guides, available at WildsCoPA.org/business-resources.
Nature Conservancy Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program applications due February 7
Host: The Nature Conservancy
Date: A webinar on January 15 will provide more information about the grants. Applications are due February 7.
Location: Use the grant program’s mapping tool to determine if your project will take place in one of the eligible areas.
The Nature Conservancy is now accepting applications for its Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program. The program offers funding for non-profit organizations, municipalities, and other partners to engage in conservation efforts in the Appalachians. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for both fee and easement land acquisition projects. The grants will prioritize funding for projects in one of the Nature Conservancy’s focal areas. Use the grant program’s mapping tool to determine if your project will take place in one of these areas. A webinar on January 15 will provide more information about the grants. Applications are due February 7. To apply, use the grant program application.
PA SDBC Agricultural Innovation – Patents, Capital, & Scaling Up free webinar on February 7
Host: PA Small Business Development Centers
Date: Friday, February 7 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Location: Register here: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/32064
Protecting your idea, acquiring capital, and scaling up. This webinar will cover everything needed to move from refined concept to revenue. Register for a free webinar on Friday, February 7 from noon to 1:30 p.m. Attendees at this webinar will learn about – Protecting Your Innovation: Understanding intellectual property rights (patents, trademarks, copyrights) and how to protect them; Commercialization Strategies: Developing a plan to bring your innovation to market and generate revenue; Funding Options: Exploring different funding sources (e.g., angel investors, venture capital, crowdfunding) to support your business; and Scaling Your Business: Expanding your operations and reaching a wider market. This is part 4 of 4 in an Agricultural Innovation webinar series targeting ag-related businesses. Farmers, food processors, farmers’ markets, restaurants, retail and wholesale food entities, food trucks, and agritourism businesses will find it especially beneficial, but it is open to all entrepreneurs and business owners seeking to innovate and grow! Register here: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/32064
USDA Partnerships for Aquatic and Watershed Restoration Program grant applications due by February 7
Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Partnerships for Aquatic and Watershed Restoration Program is accepting grant applications. USDA Forest Service is looking to address aquatic and watershed restoration needs and empower local communities and partners to assist with implementation of activities. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
USDA At-Risk Plants and Pollinators and their Ecological Conditions Program grant applications due by February 7
Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) At-Risk Plants and Pollinators and their Ecological Conditions Program is accepting grant applications. The agency is looking to ensure suitable ecosystems are sustained by restoration or maintaining species diversity and ecological productivity of at-risk plant species populations. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
USDA Revegetation with Native Plants Program grant applications due by February 7
Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Revegetation with Native Plants Program is accepting grant applications. USDA Forest Service is interested in potential partnerships to help collect, map, develop, monitor, and restore native plants, where needed. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
USDA Grassland Ecological Potential and Restoration Effectiveness Evaluation Program grant applications due by February 7
Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Grassland Ecological Potential and Restoration Effectiveness Evaluation Program is accepting grant applications. This initiative aims to explore partnerships focused on grassland ecosystems while increasing awareness of their importance. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.
Pre-Application Webinar for READY Nonprofits Training Program on February 11
Host: Appalachian Regional Commission
Date: Feb 11, 2025 10:00 AM
Location: Learn more and register at https://arcgov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fx-CEE0bTGiALQXQEfEV_w#/registration.
Applications are now open for the second round of READY Nonprofits! This seven-week, no-cost virtual training program will help executive officers of Appalachian nonprofit organizations and their staff and/or board members build essential skills in nonprofit and grant management to better fulfill their missions and sustain their organizations over time. On Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. ET, join ARC staff and training facilitator Strategic Consulting Partners to learn about the READY Nonprofits notice of solicitations of applications (NOSA). Attendees will learn best practices for applying, review important deadlines and have the opportunity to submit questions in an open Q&A. Learn more and register at https://arcgov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fx-CEE0bTGiALQXQEfEV_w#/registration.
PANO survey for nonprofits to help assess the economic impact of the nonprofit sector in Pennsylvania
Host: Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO)
Date: Survey responses currently being collected. Responses appreciated by 5PM on Thursday, February 14, 2025.
Location: Any nonprofit in Pennsylvania is eligible to take the survey. Take the survey at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8165346/Pennsylvania-Nonprofit-Impact-Survey.
The Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO) is partnering with Fourth Economy to assess the economic impact of the nonprofit sector in Pennsylvania. To support this important effort, nonprofits are encouraged to take a brief survey. The survey takes approximately 12 minutes to complete, and all responses will remain anonymous. The data collected will help highlight the significant role nonprofits play in reducing the need for government-provided services and demonstrate our sector’s overall economic contribution. Please complete the survey and consider sharing it with other nonprofits in your network. Your input is invaluable in advocating for the strength and sustainability of the nonprofit sector. Take the survey at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8165346/Pennsylvania-Nonprofit-Impact-Survey. Responses appreciated by 5PM on Thursday, February 14, 2025.
PA SDBC Your Food Business Recipe free webinars on February 20 and March 3
Host: PA Small Business Development Centers
Date: February 20 1:00-3:00 and March 3 9:00-11:00
Location: Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftPgQi1IzMCpmqww7LdOG-AuPDtsnHlGgz0sl4dZ4jUttZyg/viewform
Are you a local food producer navigating the maze of changing food safety regulations? Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to expand, “Your Food Business Recipe” from The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center is here to help. Two free webinars are available on February 20 from 1:00-3:00 and March 3 from 9:00-11:00. This interactive workshop will guide participants through key components of the Food Safety Modernization Act, including rules for produce, preventive controls for human foods, and traceability. You’ll learn practical strategies for managing risks associated with selling food or beverages and leave equipped with tools tailored to your products and business model. Hear directly from a guest food business owner who has successfully tackled these challenges, and gain valuable insights on turning risks into rewards. Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftPgQi1IzMCpmqww7LdOG-AuPDtsnHlGgz0sl4dZ4jUttZyg/viewform
Draft of State Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) ready, public comments due by March 3
Host: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
Date: Public comment on the draft is being accepted through Monday, March 3.
Location: Visit the SCORP webpage to read the draft and submit your comments.
The draft of Pennsylvania’s new 2025-2029 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is ready for public comment. The draft plan is titled Outdoor Places, Shared Spaces. The plan lays out priorities, goals, and actions for Pennsylvania to improve outdoor recreation over the next five years. Public comment on the draft is being accepted through Monday, March 3. Visit the SCORP webpage to read the draft and submit your comments.
DEP accepting applications for 2024 Small Business Advantage Grant until March 21, 2025
Host: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Date: Accepting applications starting September 20, 2024, and will accept applications until March 21, 2025, or until the funds are exhausted for this fiscal year, whichever occurs first.
Location: Learn more here.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is accepting applications for the 2024 Small Business Advantage Grant. The program helps Pennsylvania small businesses cut energy costs by replacing equipment and appliances with more energy-efficient ones or reducing pollution and waste, reimbursing 50% to 80% of eligible project costs. This year’s maximum grant award amounts will vary from up to $7,500 to up to $12,000, based on the environmental impact of the project and whether the project location is in an Environmental Justice Area in Pennsylvania. Learn more here.
DCNR spring 2025 ATV and snowmobile project grant applications open until March 31
Host: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
Date: Accepting applications until 4:00 PM on Wednesday, March 31
Location: To apply, use the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal.
The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) offers two grant rounds annually for ATV and snowmobile projects. The 2025 spring round is now open. Applications are due by 4:00 PM on Wednesday, March 31. To apply, use the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal.
DCNR Community Conservation Partnerships Program grants accepting applications until April 2
Host: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
Date: Applications are due by 4:00 PM, Wednesday, April 2.
Location: Grant applications are only accepted through the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal.
The annual Community Conservation Partnerships Program grant application window is now open. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) oversees the grant program, which funds local recreation and conservation projects in communities across Pennsylvania. Last year, the program awarded more than $79 million to more than 300 projects statewide. Grant applications are only accepted through the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal. A portal tutorial video is available to help applicants learn about grant requirements and how to navigate the application. Applications are due by 4:00 PM, Wednesday, April 2.
Susquehanna Greenway Partnership Paddler’s Toolkit Workshop in Clearfield on June 7
Host: Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025; 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: River’s Landing Event Center, 139 W Market St Suite 200, Clearfield, PA 16830
The Paddler’s Toolkit Workshop on June 7, hosted by the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) and Pennsylvania Master Naturalist (PMN), will provide novice and veteran paddlers with new information and resources to enhance their next paddling adventure. Participants will complete a two-part educational workshop that will cover the ins and outs of preparing for and undertaking a paddling trip on the Susquehanna River. In the afternoon, participants will join SGP and PMN for an on-water experience to put newly learned skills into practice. The price of registration includes lunch and access to the full-day workshop plus informational material. Price to be determined. Look for more information at susquehannagreenway.org/event/paddlers-toolkit-workshop-clearfield.
Susquehanna Sojourn: Baker Run to Lock Haven on June 19
Host: Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025; 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Starts at Baker Run Canoe Access, Mill Hall
Join the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) on Thursday, June 19, 2025, as we discover the West Branch of the Susquehanna River Water Trail. Paddlers along this section of the river will experience a 14-mile route along the West Branch Susquehanna River from Baker Run to Lock Haven. Due to the length, this is an intermediate paddle, not recommended for first-timers. Look for more information at susquehannagreenway.org/event/susquehanna-sojourn-series-west.
Northern Pennsylvania Regional College offering online programs
Host: Northern Pennsylvania Regional College
Date: Enrolling now
Location: Online programs, more information available at regionalcollegepa.org/online-programs
Northern Pennsylvania Regional College is pleased to announce a partnership with ed2go, part of Cengage Group that has brought online programming to NPRC’s workforce development division. This partnership will serve as an opportunity for students to earn credentials and certificates in asynchronous and synchronous learning formats. Courses include AutoCAD, cybersecurity, human resources, Microsoft Excel, and professional bookkeeping and payroll management. Whether someone is a high school student looking to develop skills for college; a busy parent hoping to provide a better life for their family; or a lifelong learner looking for a way to challenge themselves, these programs can help students achieve their goals at NPRC in a new way. For more information about ed2go and NPRC’s collaboration and offerings, please visit NPRC’s website under Non-Credit Online Programs.
PA Council on the Arts Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program
Host: PA Council on the Arts
Date: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis.
Location: Learn more at the PCA Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator page
The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and the PCA’s Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) partner organizations are pleased to make available the Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program. This program is designed to pair access to existing small business consulting services with $2,000 grants for creative entrepreneurs who aspire to start their own for-profit business or who operate an existing for-profit micro business. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis. Learn more at the PCA Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator page.
POWR Statewide Waterway Access Grant Mini Grant Program
Host: The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers
Date: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis.
Location: Learn more at the POWR SWAG announcement press release.
The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR) is opening the new Statewide Waterway Access Grant Mini Grant Program (SWAG). The grant program, supported by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is designed to help meet growing demand for non-motorized boating opportunities. The program provides grants of up to $30,000 to create new or improve existing access points along the region’s rivers, streams, and waterways.
Office rental space available in Greater Clearfield County Chamber of Commerce building
Host: Greater Clearfield County Chamber of Commerce
Date: Get in touch as soon as possible for tour if interested.
Location: 218 South Second Street, Clearfield, PA 16830; call Christy at 814-765-7567 for details.
Are you working from home but need a quieter office space without distractions? Could your new startup business use an affordable office space to meet with clients? Are you looking for an all-inclusive office within walking distance of downtown Clearfield? The Clearfield Chamber of Commerce building at 218 South Second Street in Clearfield has affordable office space available in the new year. Give Christy a call at 814-765-7567 for availability.
Office available for daily rental in Greater DuBois Area Chamber building
Host: Greater DuBois Area Chamber of Commerce
Date: Get in touch as soon as possible for tour if interested.
Location: 103 Beaver Drive, DuBois. Call 814-371-5010 or email Jodi August, Executive Director at [email protected].
Training Room (Smart Room) for rent at the Greater DuBois Chamber office located at 103 Beaver Drive, DuBois. Comfortably seats up to 16. Wi-Fi access, use of kitchenette, and restrooms. Chamber members rate is $25 ½ day, $50 full day. Non-Member rate is $50 ½ day, $100 full day. To reserve this room on a specific date, please call 814-371-5010 or email Jodi August, Executive Director at [email protected].
Submit your resources!
Organizations offering resources or opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits and communities in the PA Wilds are invited to submit information for potential inclusion in next month’s Partner Opportunities blog, which is posted to PAWildsCenter.org and shared in the PA Wilds Center’s monthly e-newsletter. The blog and e-blast are typically shared the second week of the month. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. the last Friday of month for consideration. SUBMIT RESOURCES
ABOUT THE PA WILDS
The Pennsylvania Wilds is a 13-county region that includes the counties of Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Potter, Tioga, Warren, and northern Centre. The PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Inc., is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to integrate conservation and economic development in a way that inspires the communities of the Pennsylvania Wilds. The PA Wilds Center promotes the region and its 2+ million acres of public lands as a premier outdoor recreation destination as a way to diversify local economies, inspire stewardship, attract investment, retain population and improve quality of life. The PA Wilds Center’s core programs seek to help businesses leverage the PA Wilds brand and connect with new market opportunities, including: the Wilds Cooperative of PA, a network of more than 600 place-based businesses and organizations, and the PA Wilds Conservation Shop, a retail outlet primarily featuring products sourced from the WCO. For more information on the PA Wilds Center, visit www.PAWildsCenter.org. To learn more about the WCO, visit www.WildsCoPA.org. Explore the PA Wilds at www.PAWilds.com. Find regionally made products at www.ShopThePAWilds.com.
Media Contact
Britt Madera | Communications Manager
PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Inc.
[email protected] | 570-948-1051