Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits in Colorado

Colorado municipalities, counties, special districts, political subdivisions, and 501(c)(3) land conservation nonprofits can obtain funding for planning, research, and capacity-building that advance outdoor recreation priorities. Great Outdoors Colorado’s Pathways Program offers US $100,000–$300,000 for data, tools, staffing, and knowledge-building that strengthen parks, trails, and open space systems statewide.

Nonprofit organizations and government entities in Colorado can apply for Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s Partners in the Outdoors grants, awarding up to US $10,000 for collaborative outdoor recreation and conservation projects. Eligible projects advance sustainable access, stewardship, land, water and wildlife conservation, or future funding for outdoor recreation, and must submit a final grant report.

Focused on outdoor recreation planning and conservation, Colorado Parks & Wildlife invites Colorado coalitions and nonprofits to seek funding for regional collaboration and capacity-building. Eligible applicants can receive US $50,000 - US $150,000 for one- to two-year projects that develop or strengthen regional partnerships, engage stakeholders, and advance sustainable recreation and conservation goals.

Colorado municipalities, counties, eligible special districts, land trusts, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife can apply for Great Outdoors Colorado’s Community Impact Grant, awarding US $100,000 - US $2,000,000 for outdoor projects. Funding can support planning, land acquisition, and development of parks, trails, schoolyards, fairgrounds, and environmental education or other recreation-focused facilities.

With a mission to support outdoor recreation and conservation planning, Colorado Parks & Wildlife provides Colorado nonprofits and government entities with US $50,000 - US $350,000 to build or strengthen regional coalitions. Funding supports capacity, collaborative plan development, public involvement, research, and early-win projects that advance regional outdoor recreation and conservation goals.

Colorado recreation and outdoor nonprofits, 501(c)(3) charities, and local, county, federal, or Tribal agencies can seek funding for non-motorized trail planning and support projects in Colorado. Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s program offers up to US $45,000 for trail layout and design, feasibility studies, volunteer capacity-building, training, education, and related eligible project costs.

Nonprofits and local, county, federal, or Tribal agencies in Colorado can apply for Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s Non-Motorized Trails Grant Program, with awards up to US $250,000 for trail construction and maintenance. Funding can cover staff, contractors, tools, materials, youth programs, land acquisition for trail development, and related project management costs.

Nonprofits, for-profits, schools, local governments, and tribes in Colorado can receive up to US $100,000 to expand outdoor recreation access and nature-based education for underserved youth and families. Colorado Parks & Wildlife supports projects that reduce barriers, provide culturally responsive outdoor programs, and develop outdoor-related career pathways for historically excluded communities.

Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofits, fiscally sponsored projects, and public entities providing human and social services can seek US $5,000 - US $10,000 for general operating or program support. Anschutz Family Foundation provides Colorado organizations with funding for youth development, outdoor and recreation programs, self-sufficiency, housing, food, crisis intervention, and related community development efforts.

Nonprofit organizations in western Colorado can seek funding for conservation, outdoor recreation, and environmental projects that benefit local people and places. With a mission to promote charitable giving and community good, Western Colorado Community Foundation provides Colorado recreation and environment groups with support for high-impact programs such as outdoor education, river flows, and air quality initiatives.

Colorado nonprofits, schools, colleges, government entities, and other 501(c) organizations can seek US $3,000 - US $5,000 to support firearms safety, shooting sports, hunting safety, and marksmanship education. Focused on outdoor recreation, the NRA Foundation invites eligible groups to fund safety training, youth education, and related public benefit programs.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff with innovative parks, recreation, or wildlife projects can apply for Great Outdoors Colorado’s Director’s Innovation Fund, with awards up to US $25,000. Projects must be new, align with Colorado's Outdoors Strategy goals, include at least a 10% match, and are intended for ideas not typically funded through other sources.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and eligible public entities in Colorado planning capital projects for recreation, education, arts, community facilities, or land and trail improvements can apply for Gates Family Foundation’s capital grants. With a mission to strengthen communities, the foundation supports comprehensive campaigns for construction, renovation, expansion, or land acquisition, including parks and recreation infrastructure benefiting Colorado residents.

L.L.Bean Charitable Donations supports outdoor initiatives that bring communities together. The program encourages partnerships with inspiring individuals and organizations. To apply, ensure requests are made at least eight weeks before the event. Please note that the program does not fund individuals, advertising, specific schools, or projects outside the U.S. For more information, visit their website to learn how to get involved.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

Cell Signaling Technology’s Environmental Grants support initiatives aimed at ecosystem protection, wildlife research, and environmental education. Priority is given to action-oriented projects with at least 70% of funding allocated to those directly impacting the environment. Applications are accepted annually until May 1st, with a focus on organizations in Massachusetts, particularly the North Shore of Boston. Non-profit status is required, and discriminatory projects will not be funded.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Hunting Heritage

Ensuring our hunting heritage is central to RMEF’s mission. Hunters—America’s first conservationists—remain the driving force behind wildlife conservation. RMEF funds hunting heritage and conservation education to help more people experience the outdoors, learn the skills of hunting, and carry forward the traditions that define big game country, including outdoor skills programs/events, hunter or conservation outreach, mentored hunts, and other similar activities.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Golden Civic Foundation's "For the Good of Golden" Grant Program supports the economic and cultural vitality of the Golden community. With over $7.62 million in funding since 1970, it prioritizes civic development, arts, education, and community improvement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, local governments, and public schools, focusing on projects that enhance community well-being and inclusivity while fostering collaborative partnerships for lasting impact.

The Golden Civic Foundation (GCF) offers Helping Hands Grants to support organizations facing unexpected expenses that hinder their mission. These grants aim to address unforeseen emergencies and seize unanticipated opportunities for enhancing community service in Golden. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities and local government agencies that operate within the city. GCF prioritizes projects that demonstrate immediate needs, sustainability, and community support, ensuring resources benefit Golden citizens effectively.

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest, co-hosted by Inside Edge Safety Surfaces, offers two all-expenses-paid awards for Life Floor safety surfaces, aimed at enhancing community splash pads. The Need-Based Award targets municipalities and non-profits demonstrating financial need, with design options including planks, bubbles, and geometric shapes. Grant values range from $50,000 to $65,000, depending on project size, ensuring safety and accessibility for all users.

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest invites municipal entities and non-profits in the U.S. to apply for the Inclusive Design Award. This award recognizes splash pads that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Winners will receive a customized Life Floor safety surface, valued at $50-65k, promoting community engagement and safety. With two opportunities to win, this initiative aims to enhance splash pad designs, ensuring they cater to all individuals. Join us in making splash pads safer and more accessible for everyone!

Bass Pro Shops & Cabela's Outdoor Fund supports conservation-focused nonprofits through fundraising events and donation of merchandise or gift cards. Organizations eligible for funding must be registered 501(c)(3) entities in the U.S. or provincially registered nonprofits in Canada. This initiative aims to connect communities to outdoor activities while promoting wildlife conservation and support for military veterans. Grants of up to $1,000 are available to enhance local fundraising efforts.

The Outdoor Fund - Local Impact Grant supports local organizations and projects that enhance community engagement and align with conservation goals. With grants up to $5,000, eligible projects include youth fishing clinics and trail maintenance. Funded by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, this initiative exemplifies their commitment to wildlife conservation and connecting communities to the outdoors. Eligible applicants include municipalities and registered nonprofits in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on specific conservation efforts.

The Veterans and Nature Grant, offered by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, aims to engage veterans in outdoor activities that promote physical and mental health. With a funding pool of $100,000, grants of up to $10,000 are available for projects focused on outdoor recreation and wellness activities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities partnered with public land organizations, fostering environmental awareness and community involvement.

Nonprofits, government agencies, and public schools serving Golden residents can seek program funding for recreation, outdoor activities, and other community needs in Colorado. Grants from Golden Civic Foundation help organizations address basic needs, enhance culture and heritage, or support outdoor and recreational projects that improve quality of life for Golden citizens. Awards range from US $500 - US $5,000.