California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is reminding eligible organizations that the deadline to apply for Aquatic Center Education Program grants is Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, at noon. Approximately $1.4 million in funding is available to local public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and colleges or universities operating within California that provide on-the-water boating safety education to the public.
These competitive grants can be used to purchase boating equipment and supplies, provide student scholarships for on-the-water courses, and offset the costs of instructor training or boating safety-related events. Applications must be submitted through DBW’s online grant application system.
Earlier this month, DBW held its annual in-person meeting with aquatic center directors at Lake Tahoe Community College to provide guidance on submitting competitive applications. Each application will be scored on how effectively it demonstrates the ability to teach boating safety and enhance knowledge of boating laws, vessel handling, and safe practices on the water.
Grant recipients are expected to be notified in early 2026. Since the late 1970s, DBW has awarded about $30 million through this program, averaging 35 to 40 recipients each year. The program is funded through the federal Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund Recreational Boating Safety Grant, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
For more details and to review eligibility requirements, visit the DBW’s website at dbw.parks.ca.gov.
