New Mexico expands youth outdoor grants with new $100K funding tier
New Mexico is expanding its Outdoor Equity Fund with a new grant category offering up to $100,000 for organizations serving youth through outdoor programs.
State officials say the expanded Outdoor Equity Fund aims to help organizations scale outdoor programs for youth across New Mexico
Organ Mountain News report
SANTA FE - Outdoor programs serving New Mexico youth could soon receive significantly larger state grants under a new funding category announced Friday by the state’s Outdoor Recreation Division.
The expanded Outdoor Equity Fund will now include grants ranging from $41,001 to $100,000 for organizations with the capacity to deliver large-scale outdoor programming for young people across the state.
State officials said the new Tier 2 category is designed to support organizations that can expand outdoor access, build partnerships and serve youth through multi-site or statewide initiatives.
Organ Mountain News
The funding could apply to programs focused on outdoor recreation, environmental education, workforce development and other youth-centered outdoor experiences.
“This new funding tier reflects the growing demand for outdoor programs across New Mexico and the incredible work organizations are already doing in communities statewide,” Economic Development Department Secretary Rob Black said in a statement.
The Outdoor Equity Fund was created in 2019 as part of New Mexico’s broader push to expand outdoor access for youth regardless of income, geography or background.
According to the state, the program has awarded $10.5 million since launch and connected more than 128,000 young people across 28 counties and Tribal communities to outdoor experiences statewide.
The new funding category also reflects growing state interest in outdoor recreation as both a youth development strategy and an economic development sector.
Organizations seeking the larger grants must first submit a letter of interest between June 1 and June 12. Full applications for the FY27 funding cycle will open July 1 and close July 30 at 5 p.m.
The state plans to hold a mandatory informational webinar for prospective Tier 2 applicants on May 27 at noon.
To qualify for the expanded grants, organizations must have annual operating budgets of at least $500,000 and provide matching funds. Urban applicants must provide a 50% match, while rural and Tribal applicants must provide a 25% match.
Projects funded through the program must be completed within 24 months and include measurable outcome tracking, according to the state.
More information about the grant program, webinar registration and application materials is available at nmoutside.com/outdoor-equity-fund.
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