The grants listed on this page do not account for all grants that are available for native gardens and native plant education. However, WOWC Native Plant Garden Grants Program is familiar with each of these and can help you through the application process.
Grant Information
Wild Ones Grants
Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education Program
The Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education Program (SFE) is named for Wild Ones lifetime Honorary Director Lorrie Otto, the founding inspiration for Wild Ones, Native Plants, Natural Landscapes, Ltd. Lorrie’s life work with students, young and old, was to cultivate wonder, reverence and awe for Nature and all Her creatures. Today, the SFE program provides meaningful learning opportunities that connect youth to nature and the Wild Ones mission. For more than 25 years, this vital Wild Ones donor-funded program has provided grants ranging from $100 to $500 for native plant gardens and landscaping projects throughout the United States. The funds are designated for acquiring native plants and seeds for outdoor learning areas that engage youth (preschool to high school) directly in planning, planting and caring for native plant gardens. Examples include
- pollinator gardens,
- rain gardens to improve water quality,
- tallgrass prairies,
- native plant monarch waystations featuring community science activities,
- and sensory and natural playgrounds.
For information on how to apply, please see the Seeds for Education Program page
Applications for the 2027 planting season are accepted from July 15th – November 28th, 2026.
Other Grants
These grants are provided by organizations outside of Wild Ones, but we are happy to help you with the application process to increase your chances of getting the grant money that you need for your school.
Wildflower Association of Michigan
The Wildflower Association of Michigan (WAM) annual WAM Grant helps provide funds to plant, seed and maintain native plantings as well as site preparation and signage. Their focus is on education, especially for youth.
KidsGardening.org
KidsGardening.org has multiple grant opportunities each with slightly different focuses, but all with the primary goal of education for kids through gardens.
Southeast MI Butterfly Association
The Southeast Michigan Butterfly Association (SEMBA) awards three grants per year in order to help establish or expand a community butterfly garden