Best Wildlife Grants in Colorado

The Aiken Audubon Mini-Grants program, initiated by the Aiken Audubon Society, aims to promote bird conservation in the Pikes Peak region. Grants ranging from $100 to $500 are available for individuals and community organizations that align with the society's mission. The program continues the legacy of ornithological study established by pioneers like Charles Aiken. With the goal of supporting at least four mini-grants per year, it fosters local engagement in wildlife conservation efforts.

The Biophilia Foundation Grants support biodiversity conservation on private lands, focusing on systemic change through community engagement. The foundation encourages organizations to submit letters of inquiry detailing their mission, tax status, funding requests, and intended outcomes. They prioritize private land conservation, ecosystem restoration, and innovative policy initiatives, especially in the arid Southwest and Chesapeake Bay regions. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with larger amounts available for established partnerships.

The FHL Foundation Giving program focuses on Animal & Human Welfare in its Winter 2026 Grant Cycle, from December 7, 2025, to January 7, 2026. Interested organizations should email to discuss potential trackable projects. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations in Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado, with clear objectives that can be measured. The foundation meets quarterly to review proposals across various focus areas, ensuring accountability in grant spending.

The Fish and Wildlife Resources Fund Grant Program, administered by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, aims to support existing water supply facilities while ensuring the protection of Colorado's fish and wildlife. Grants can be utilized for water rights acquisition, river restoration projects, and a combination of both, enhancing environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants include operators of water facilities and the CWCB, with projects expected to be completed within three years. Contact CWCB staff for funding discussions and requirements.

The Partners in the Outdoors Grant Program, administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, promotes collaboration in outdoor recreation and conservation across Colorado. This initiative supports non-profits and government entities by providing funding for projects that align with the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. Eligible applicants are encouraged to enhance their proposals with matching funds to maximize impact. The program seeks innovative solutions that ensure sustainable access to outdoor spaces for all Coloradans and visitors.

The Colorado Outdoor Regional Plan Capacity, Plan Development, & Early Wins grant program supports regional partnerships to enhance conservation and outdoor recreation. Funded by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Great Outdoors Colorado, grants range from $50,000 to $350,000 for one to three years. The initiative aims to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, ensuring equitable access to outdoor experiences while promoting healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. This funding is intended for coalitions developing regional conservation and recreation plans.

The GOCO Community Impact Grant supports projects that enhance community access to outdoor spaces in Colorado. With a focus on revitalizing parks, trails, and other facilities, GOCO aims to improve the quality of life for residents. Eligible applicants include municipalities, special districts, and non-profits dedicated to land conservation. This flexible funding can cover project management and implementation costs, fostering community-driven initiatives that celebrate Colorado's diverse landscapes and improve public engagement with the outdoors.

The GOCO Land Acquisition Grant, offered by Great Outdoors Colorado, aims to protect vital landscapes, waterways, and habitats across Colorado. Since 1992, GOCO has invested over $1.3 billion from Colorado Lottery proceeds to enhance public access to parks and natural areas. This grant supports projects that prioritize both urban and rural landscapes while fostering wildlife habitats and public recreation opportunities, especially in underserved communities, ensuring sustainable conservation efforts.

The GOCO: Pathways Program, initiated by Great Outdoors Colorado, aims to enhance Colorado's public spaces through innovative planning and capacity-building grants. Since 1992, GOCO has allocated over $1.3 billion in lottery proceeds towards preserving parks, trails, and wildlife habitats across the state. This program addresses critical issues and opportunities by supporting research, data analysis, and the development of tools to strengthen local governments and conservation organizations.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) seeks proposals to restore and enhance aquatic and riparian species in the Colorado River and Rio Grande watersheds, with up to $1.3 million in funding. This initiative targets projects yielding measurable outcomes for species of conservation concern, focusing on the Rio Grande and Colorado River Focal Areas. Priority will be given to projects addressing habitat loss, invasive species, and employing innovative restoration methods to support local ecosystems.

The Conservation Service Corps Grants, funded by Great Outdoors Colorado, support outdoor recreation and natural resource projects by hiring youth and veterans through conservation service corps. Annually, $1.5 million is allocated for these initiatives, enabling crews to tackle various projects like trail maintenance, invasive species mitigation, and wildlife habitat improvement. This program not only enhances natural resources but also provides job training and leadership skills to over 1,700 young participants each year.

The Non-Motorized Trails Grant Program, managed by Colorado Parks & Wildlife, supports projects that enhance outdoor recreation through planning, construction, and maintenance of trails. Funded by Great Outdoors Colorado and the Federal Recreational Trails Program, eligible applicants include local, county, federal, and tribal agencies, as well as 501(c)(3) organizations. Projects aim to protect wildlife and cultural resources while promoting sustainable recreational opportunities for all.

The Non-Motorized Trails Grant Program, managed by Colorado Parks & Wildlife, aims to enhance outdoor recreation by funding trail construction, maintenance, and planning projects. Grants can provide up to $250,000 to eligible applicants, including government agencies and non-profit organizations. This initiative supports the protection of wildlife and cultural resources while promoting sustainable outdoor activities. Interested parties can find additional information on project eligibility and funding specifics through the official CPW website.

The Non-Motorized Trails Grant Program by Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers funding for trail stewardship projects, enhancing outdoor recreation while protecting resources. With a budget of $500,000, it supports trail maintenance crews of two to eight workers. Eligible applicants include local governments and non-profits with land management partnerships. Projects can receive up to $150,000, focusing on safety, sustainability, and community engagement, fostering responsible stewardship of Colorado's natural landscapes.

The Colorado Wildlife Habitat Program (CWHP) provides funding to landowners for the protection of vital wildlife habitats and public recreational access. Supported by the Habitat Stamp and Great Outdoors Colorado, this program has significantly improved habitat conservation efforts. Colorado Parks and Wildlife appreciates the contributions of hunters and anglers in maintaining this essential initiative, which aims to enhance the state's natural resources and wildlife populations.

The Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants program, offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, supports wildlife rehabilitation efforts across the state. The program prioritizes licensed wildlife rehabilitators and considers factors like species rehabilitated, project feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. It aims to enhance wildlife care through funding for food, infrastructure upgrades, and public education, while ineligible expenses include salaries and lobbying. Preference is given to established facilities, ensuring effective use of grant funds.

The RESTORE Colorado Grant Program, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, aims to enhance wildlife habitats across Colorado. With an expected funding of $4.5 million in 2025, the program focuses on critical habitats such as wetlands, grasslands, and sagebrush rangelands. It encourages cross-jurisdictional projects for effective landscape-level conservation, benefiting both wildlife and local communities. This initiative exemplifies a collaborative approach to proactive management of Colorado's natural resources.

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service supports agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation efforts. This program provides technical and financial assistance to improve land management practices, promote wildlife habitat, and increase resilience to environmental challenges. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices, ensuring a sustainable agricultural operation while maintaining ecological balance. CSP is pivotal for landowners seeking to achieve higher stewardship levels and contribute to conservation goals.

The Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, aims to enhance motorized recreation in Colorado. Funded through OHV registrations and Recreational Trails Program resources, it promotes responsible OHV use on public lands. Eligible applicants include local, state, and federal agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations. The program focuses on projects that align with state regulations, ensuring sustainable use of off-highway vehicles while fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

The Fishing is Fun Grant Program, managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, aims to enhance angling opportunities throughout Colorado by providing up to $700,000 annually in matching funds. This initiative supports a variety of projects including habitat improvements, access enhancements, and public amenities at fishing sites. Eligible applicants include local governments, recreation departments, and nonprofit organizations. Over 30 years, the program has funded 375 projects, promoting sustainable fishing practices and community engagement.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and private forest landowners in implementing conservation practices that enhance environmental quality on agricultural lands. Eligible applicants include agricultural producers and non-industrial private forestland owners, with a focus on reducing pollution, conserving water resources, and promoting wildlife habitat. NRCS accepts applications year-round, ensuring ongoing support for environmentally sustainable practices in agriculture.

The Lois Webster Fund, established in 1995 by the Audubon Society of Greater Denver, supports vital research and education projects focused on Colorado's non-game wildlife. This fund aims to enhance the conservation of these species by considering projects that influence population management and habitat conservation. Preference is given to proposals affiliated with nonprofit organizations or academic institutions, ensuring collaborative efforts that can make a significant impact in preserving Colorado's biodiversity.

The Foothills and Prairie Grant Program, offered by the Aiken Audubon Society, supports projects focused on the conservation and study of birds in the Pikes Peak region. Grants of up to $6,500 are available for educational and scientific initiatives. Past funded projects include bird banding stations and educational programs at local nature centers. The program aims to continue the legacy of ornithological research in Colorado by fostering community engagement and ecological preservation.

The Colorado Wetlands for Wildlife Program invites applications for projects aimed at restoring, enhancing, and creating wetlands and riparian areas. This initiative focuses on improving habitats for ducks and other at-risk species, supporting public waterfowl hunting, and addressing conservation needs. Local governments, tribes, and non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply. The program emphasizes collaborative efforts to achieve habitat improvements, aligning with the Colorado State Wildlife Action Plan.

The Colorado Shooting Range Grants provide essential funding to enhance shooting ranges across the state, with an estimated $750,000 available this year. This initiative, supported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, aims to improve safety, accessibility, and overall experience for recreational shooters. Eligible applicants include local governments, shooting organizations, and educational groups. Projects focus on public benefit and must adhere to guidelines for environmental stewardship. This program fosters community engagement and promotes responsible outdoor recreation.

The Colorado Forest Legacy Grant Program, administered by the Colorado State Forest Service, aims to protect vital private forest areas from conversion to non-forest uses. By focusing on conservation easements, the program promotes sustainable forestry practices and preserves significant ecological habitats. It encourages public and private partnerships to maintain forest integrity while allowing landowners to retain ownership. Priorities include reducing land fragmentation and safeguarding water quality, wildlife habitats, and unique ecological zones.

The Wright-Ingraham Institute offers Sustaining Grants to support non-profit organizations addressing environmental and social challenges. These grants emphasize climate change, land issues, and wildlife conservation, with a special focus on Colorado-based institutions. Since 2012, the Institute has awarded over $400,000 to more than 65 organizations. The grants are awarded biennially, with the next cycle commencing in August 2025, providing up to $5,000 to eligible 501c(3) organizations.