How can I fund my monarch project? Where can I find free or low-cost milkweeds and nectar plants?
If you are looking to enhance an existing site with native milkweeds and nectar plants or to establish a new site from scratch, here are a few tips to consider when looking for funding:
Monarch Watch has two opportunities to apply for free milkweed plugs for large-scale restoration projects and for schools and non-profits.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) operates a Monarch Butterfly Conservation Fund for large projects, and they typically have an annual request for proposals.
For small-scale garden habitats, the primary funding opportunities are through the state or local community. Check out our list of garden grants and search online for "garden grant" opportunities and find one that applies to your area or planting objectives.
Connect with groups like Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, Pheasants Forever, Wild Ones chapters, or a local garden club or rotary club. These groups may be able to provide funding, expertise, or materials such as local seeds or plants transplanted from existing gardens.
Community-scale or public projects may be able to work with local native plant producers to provide seeds or plants at low or no-cost.
Check with friends and neighbors to see if anyone has seeds from native milkweeds or other wildflowers that they have collected and would be willing to share.
Also keep in mind that restoring habitat for monarchs has many co-benefits. Leverage other funding opportunities that prioritize migratory bird habitat, water quality, or another conservation initiative. If you recognize and make connections to multiple species and environmental benefits, you will broaden your opportunities to support a habitat restoration project, even if your primary goal is monarch conservation. Search to find conservation-minded funding opportunities through trusts, foundations, or other entities.
Reach out to MJV’s free Pollinator Habitat Help Desk for additional ideas and guidance!