The Pathways Program helps address pressing issues and opportunities through research and knowledge-building activities; data-gathering and analysis; development of tools and models; and expanding staff capacity.
Donor Name: Great Outdoors Colorado
State: Colorado
County: All Counties
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 01/15/2026
Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000
Grant Duration: 3 Years
Details:
The Pathways Program supports organizational capacity, research projects, and regional or statewide planning efforts that address critical issues in the outdoors. This includes innovative strategies that address natural resource and outdoor recreation needs of Colorado’s communities, and proposals that allow for transferable or replicable approaches to scale impact.
Priority will be given to projects that clearly outline impactful planning and research opportunities that address regional and statewide opportunities, issues, and trends in the outdoors, and advance innovation, sustainability, and equity. When funding capacity, applicants are encouraged to consider hiring practices, professional development, and thoughtful wages. Where possible, they aim to support projects that create long-term, full-time jobs or career growth for people from underrepresented groups, including BIPOC, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, and others from marginalized communities.
Funding Information
While there is no maximum request amount, competitive grants often range between $100,000 and $300,000.
Grant Period
1-3 years for project completion.
Eligible Grant Expenses
- Project planning, coordination, implementation, communications, and/or celebration
- Technology and other one-time non-fixed assets
- Expenses incurred during the grant period by the applicant and any contracted service providers for services directly related to project outcomes and administration
- Strategic planning, consulting services, and other community engagement costs
- Staff, board, and other relevant personnel professional development, skill training, workshops, and conferences.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Organizations:
- Colorado cities, towns, and counties
- Title 32 special districts eligible to receive Conservation Trust Fund distributions
- Land conservation organizations that support open space and natural area acquisitions
- Political subdivisions of the State of Colorado whose missions are to identify, manage, or acquire open space and natural areas
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
For more information, visit GOCO.
