CONTACT: CAL FIRE PIO (916) 651-3473 Calfire.dutypio@fire.ca.gov

RELEASE DATE: February 25, 2026

Sacramento – CAL FIRE announced today that it is accepting applications for business and workforce development projects that advance the business of healthy, resilient forests across California. This grant program encourages private investment in clean technologies, advances innovative wood-processing solutions, and supports the development of a skilled and resilient forest-sector workforce.

The purpose of this program is to strengthen and diversify California’s wood products industry while supporting the long-term, sustainable management of the state’s forests. Selected projects will support communities and ecosystems while sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Applications will be accepted until midnight on May 20, 2026. To apply, go to the Business and Workforce Development webpage to start your application.

Through these grants, CAL FIRE is helping make California a more competitive environment for forest-sector businesses. Since 2022, CAL FIRE’s Business and Workforce Development program has awarded over $105 million in funding to over 105 projects across the state. 

"The Wood Products & Bioenergy Team has been an exceptional partner to our organization. Through their grant support, we've been able to double our impact within underserved communities, creating meaningful pathways to professional careers in the forestry and fire service,” said Royal Ramey, CEO of Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program.

A virtual pre-recorded workshop is available to explain the grant process and requirements and is available on CAL FIRE TV. Questions can be directed to WoodProducts@fire.ca.gov.

Projects that receive funding from this grant program are designed to complement the California Forest Carbon Plan, California’s Natural and Working Lands Implementation Plan, California’s Wildfire & Forest Resilience Action Plan, California’s Strategic Plan for Expanding the Use of Beneficial Fire, and AB 32 Climate Change Scoping Plan.

Business and Workforce Development grants are part of California Climate Investments, which uses billions of Cap-and-Invest dollars to fund projects that reduce harmful emissions, protect public health, strengthen local economies, and support natural environments. With a strong focus on communities most impacted by pollution and limited access to resources, California Climate Investments help build a more equitable and sustainable future.

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