Application Period Now Open for the Cumberland Forest Community Fund, Advancing Nature-Based Community and Economic Development in Southwest Virginia
The Cumberland Forest Community Fund announced today the launch of its 2026 round of grant funding, committing $115,000 to support local, nature-based projects that strengthen economic opportunity, community capacity and environmental stewardship across Southwest Virginia.
Administered by the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) in partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the Anne & Gene Worrell Foundation and the Cumberland Forest Limited Partnership, the Community Fund supports local projects that align economic development with conservation and community well-being. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local governments and organized community groups located in Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazewell and Wise counties, as well as the City of Norton.
Since its establishment in 2022, the Community Fund has invested $480,000 in 35 community projects focused on outdoor recreation, workforce development, renewable energy, trail and tourism infrastructure, habitat restoration, cultural assets and other community-identified priorities. These investments reflect a “triple bottom line” approach, delivering economic, environmental and community benefits while building long-term resilience in Central Appalachia.
In 2025, the Community Fund earned national recognition as one of the top three finalists in the Place category of the University Economic Development Association (UEDA) Awards of Excellence. The nomination highlighted the Community Fund as a leading example of how universities, conservation organizations, philanthropy and local communities can collaborate to advance inclusive, place-based economic development.
“The Cumberland Forest Community Fund is demonstrating environmental benefits and economic vitality can go hand in hand,” said Brad Kreps, Clinch Valley program director for TNC in Virginia. “The projects supported through this fund demonstrate how local leadership and nature-based solutions can create meaningful opportunities for communities throughout Southwest Virginia.”
The 2026 funding round builds on this momentum by prioritizing projects that leverage existing community resources and regional strategies to achieve lasting outcomes. Grant awards are intended to support implementation, capacity building and partnership development, with no required matching funds.
According to Randall Rose, associate vice chancellor for community and economic development at UVA Wise, the initiative plays a unique role in the region’s development ecosystem. “By centering local voices and investing in projects that reflect community priorities, the Cumberland Forest Community Fund has become a catalyst for sustainable economic development. Its recognition by UEDA underscores the strength of this collaborative model and the impact it is having across Southwest Virginia.”
In addition to funding support, applicants benefit from technical assistance in the form of project development and additional support services provided by the UVA Wise Office of Community and Economic Development. Each project team also becomes part of a cohort—a community of practice that shares knowledge, celebrates success and works through obstacles together.
“We work closely with communities to make the application process approachable and supportive,” said Nick Proctor, community outreach manager for TNC’s Clinch Valley program. “Our goal is to help organizations translate strong local ideas into projects that deliver ongoing benefits for both people and the region’s natural assets.”
Applications for the 2026 Cumberland Forest Community Fund are open through Friday, March 27, 2026. Program guidelines, eligibility criteria and application materials are available online at www.oxbowcenter.com/communityfund.