NOTE: Applications for the latest round of Tree Forward funding are closed
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PHMC, in collaboration with its Philly Tree Plan Partners, seeks proposals from community-based organizations for projects that further the goals of Tree Forward. Selected applicants will carry out projects that support long-term sustainability of the urban forest in high-priority areas of Philadelphia.
Tree Forward funding was financed in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, alongside other funding sources, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation. Tree Forward may not be used as a match for other DCNR funded projects.
RFP Information:
Download the RFP Packet || Descarga el paquete de la RFP
Application Guide || Guía del candidato
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Watch the recording of our informational webinar
RFP Timeline:
Application Opens: July 6, 2026
Application Closes: August 24, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
Notification of Award: October 2026
Project Period: January 1, 2027 – December 31, 2027
Office hours will be held throughout the application period. Pre-registration is required.
>> Register for office hours here. Office hours are one-on-one, 15-minute sessions.
Our grant recipients do so much more than plant trees.
“We’re proud to select a group of grantees whose Tree Forward projects reflect deep engagement with the neighborhoods they serve and a strong commitment to expanding equitable access to tree care and resources in their communities,” said Deepa Mankikar, senior director of public health programs at PHMC.
Tree Forward, a key component of the Philly Tree Plan, advances environmental equity through funding and technical assistance. It supports community-based organizations working to increase tree canopy coverage, promotes long-term tree care and stewardship, creates workforce development opportunities, and expands access to the benefits of trees.
2026 Tree Forward Grantee Organizations and Funded Projects:
Riverfront North Partnership
Plant and maintain trees along the Port Richmond Trail, enhancing tree canopy coverage and ecological health.
CLICK HERE to view Riverfront North Partnership's website.
The Woodlands Trust for Historic Preservation
Prune and plant trees throughout the historic cemetery and create educational signage highlighting the value of trees.
CLICK HERE to view the Woodlands' website.
Olney Culture Lab of CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia
Develop new music compositions and soundscapes inspired by Tacony Creek Park and residents’ relationships with trees, leading to two live performances.
CLICK HERE to view Olney Culture Lab's website.
Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks
Execute tree care and maintenance, including care for the property’s landmark Ginkgo tree.
CLICK HERE to view Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks' website.
Klean Kensington
Launch a paid teen tree-tending cohort and lead a neighborhood campaign promoting positive relationships with street trees.
CLICK HERE to view Klean Kensington's website.
Friends of Carpenter’s Woods
Develop the Cool Down Northwest Philly project to nurture and grow the tree canopy by bringing together tree tender groups in Northwest Philly to collaborate, communicate, canvas and care.
CLICK HERE to view the Friends of Carpenter's Woods' website.
Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership
Develop an urban forestry workforce program and expand community access to a newly established nature preserve.
CLICK HERE to view TTF Watershed's website.
Philly Tree People
Pilot a Tree Planting Program for community green spaces and a Youth Tree Tender Training Program to foster better environmental stewardship.
CLICK HERE to view Philly Tree People's website.
Philly Thrive
Develop a Green Jobs for Grays Ferry program, connecting with community leaders and developers to foster collaboration and opportunities for green job pathways.
CLICK HERE to view Philly Thrive's website.
Heritage CDC
Plant and steward trees across high-need blocks in partnership with local nonprofits, integrating youth workforce development, resident stewardship, and trauma-informed community education.
CLICK HERE to view Hertiage CDC's page.
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