# NC DNCR Awards LWCF Recreation Grants

The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) announced the award of nearly **$4 million** in grants through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to support nine local parks and recreation projects across North Carolina. These grants, announced on September 22, 2026, provide up to $750,000 per project for land acquisition, new facilities, and park improvements aligned with the state's Outdoor Recreation Plan. Eligible local governments and contractors have until November 2, 2026, to apply for the 2026-2027 funding cycle, which requires a dollar-for-dollar match.

- **Why this matters:** This funding cycle presents significant opportunities for local governments and contractors specializing in park development, land conservation, and recreational infrastructure within North Carolina.
- The matching fund requirement emphasizes the need for strategic budgeting and partnership between public entities and private contractors.
- Procurement professionals should prepare proposals that align with state outdoor recreation priorities to maximize funding potential.
- Contractors with expertise in land acquisition, construction, and park facility development should consider engaging with local governments to participate in these projects.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR)
- North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation
- Department of the Interior

### Sources
- [DNCR Announces Nearly $4 Million in Local Recreation Grants from Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund | NC DNCR](https://www.dncr.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/09/22/dncr-announces-nearly-4-million-local-recreation-grants-federal-land-and-water-conservation-fund) - NC