New Mexico’s Economic Development Department announced Monday a new level of grant funding through the state’s Outdoor Equity Fund that will make up to $100,000 available to organizations able to deliver “large-scale programming.”
The state first established both its Outdoor Equity Fund and the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division in the state’s economic department in 2019, saying the effort would foster new experiences with land and water for New Mexico kids.
Since then, state officials have awarded $10.5 million in grants for different programs, all through smaller grants of less than $40,000. Some of the featured recipients include the NACA Inspired Schools Network, which serves Indigenous students in New Mexico “by providing culturally relevant, land-based learning experiences”; and Silver Stallion Bicycle & Coffee Works, Inc., supporting youth mountain bike clubs and other services on the Navajo Nation.
Now, larger programs — with a minimum $500,000 operating budget — can submit letters of interest for grants between $41,000 and $100,000.
“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 Secretary Rob Black said in a statement. “By increasing available funding, we can support programs reaching more youth with meaningful outdoor experiences that improve health, build confidence, strengthen communities and create lasting connections to the outdoors.”
The state has not yet determined how much of the $4 million set aside grants this year will be used for the new higher tier, said Michelle Simon, the marketing and outreach coordinator for the Outdoor Recreation Division.
The state will hold a mandatory webinar for prospective applicants on May 27, and requires all organizations seeking the higher level of funding to submit letters of interest by June 12.
The window for all grants applications to the Outdoor Equity Fund opens July 1 and closes July 30.
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