; (N) to increase scientific capacity to support the planning, monitoring, and research activities necessary to carry out coordinated restoration and protection activities; and (O) to provide technical assistance to carry out restoration and protection activities in the Watershed. 4. Connecticut River Watershed Partnership grant program (a) Definition of eligible entity In this section, the term eligible entity means— (1) a State, Tribal, or local government; (2) a nonprofit organization; and (3) an institution of higher education (as defined in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001(a) )). (b) Establishment Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a voluntary grant and technical assistance program, to be known as the Connecticut River Watershed Partnership grant program , to provide competitive matching grants to eligible entities to carry out restoration and protection activities for the Watershed. (c) Criteria The Secretary, in consultation with the agencies, organizations, and other individuals and entities referred to in section 3(c), shall develop criteria for the grant program to ensure— (1) the equitable distribution of funds