Funding Opportunities

The Merced MLRP includes multiple funding opportunities for projects that help reduce reliance on groundwater while providing community health, economic well-being, water supply, habitat, and/or renewable energy benefits. To be considered, projects must provide a public benefit for at least ten years, and align with the broader MLRP Program goals as well as with regional land repurposing and Groundwater Sustainability Strategies in the Merced Subbasin.

Information on Two Project Solicitations

Funding is available NOW through two Requests for Projects (RFPs). Both are soliciting projects that transition irrigated agricultural land to less water-intensive use(s) and create additional benefits for rural communities, economies, and/or ecosystems. Projects must be fully implemented by March 30, 2027.

What's the difference between the two RFPs?

1. Community Benefit Project RFP: On April 25, 2025 the Merced MLRP released a special funding solicitation for Community Benefit Projects. Projects must provide meaningful benefits to disadvantaged communities in the Merced Subbasin. $1.2M total is available.

2. Implementation Project RFP: On May 23, 2025 the Merced MLRP re-opened the RFP for Implementation Projects that was originally released on November 15, 2024. Projects are encouraged to provide benefits to communities, but they can also focus on other types of environmental or economic benefits for the Merced Subbasin. $1M total is available.

Download the RFPs from the links provided below. Please contact us for a free consultation about project ideas. Applicants are strongly encouraged to reach out to the Merced MLRP team before submitting an application.

Contact Us

Current

Upcoming

Requests for Projects (RFPs) and Application Forms

Community Benefit Project Funding (APPLY NOW)

RFP in English:

RFP in Spanish:

Implementation Project Funding: Application Window RE-OPENED as of May 23, 2025

RFP in English (Application starts on page 8):

RFP in Spanish:

Project Development Funding: Solicitation
Coming Summer 2025

The Merced MLRP will release an additional funding solicitation for the design and permitting of projects that will not be implemented prior to the end of the grant period (March 30, 2027).

Updates and information on this RFP will be posted on this page when available. Sign-up for email announcements and updates HERE.