Introducing annual grant cycles, new initiatives
It's been an exciting summer already for GOCO! We've got a lot of big news to share with you, starting with our decision to move to annual grant cycles. Based on feedback from our grantees, GOCO's Open Space and Local Government programs will be offered annually as opposed to biannually. This adjustment provides opportunity to offer special initiatives in between ongoing awards, and adjusts submission deadlines to better align award decisions with upcoming construction seasons.
This summer, we also launched the Inspire Initiative, a $25 million investment over the next five years to get more kids outside. Inspire is just one part of our new strategic plan that also focuses on protecting open space and wildlife and connecting more Coloradans to outdoor recreation with improved trail access.
One last announcement: GOCO is going paperless! All future GOCO applications will be submitted online via our new portal. Applicants will need to register first with that link before submitting any documents. Not to worry, we will still offer pre-submission application review via email!
We made all of these changes and new initiatives with you in mind. If you have any questions, please email us so we can help you out. The complete calendar for future grant cycles is below, as well as information about special initiatives and new grant programs.
Open Space grants
Grants that fund the acquisition and protection of unique open space and natural areas of statewide significance through fee acquisitions or conservation easements.
Applications due Aug. 12.
Grants awarded in Dec. 10.
Special "Protect Initiative" (new)
Grants that focus on protecting high priority, large, connected landscapes.
Concept paper request issued December 2015
Concept papers due February 2016
Board to invite full applications in March
Grants awarded October 2016
Conservation Easement Transaction Cost Only grants (new)
Grants to help communities and organizations protect unique open space and natural areas of statewide significance by funding due diligence costs that often serve as a barrier to preservation.
Application posted Jan. 4, 2016
Applications due March 2016
Grants awarded June 2016
Conservation Excellence grants
Grants that provide opportunities for communities and organizations to address issues and challenges facing the conservation community through pilot projects and research that meet GOCO’s mission to protect open space and natural areas of statewide significance in Colorado.
Application posted Jan. 4, 2016.
Applications due March 2016.
Grants awarded June 2016
Local Government (LPOR, Mini and Planning grants)
Grants that fund new park development, enhancements to existing parks, park land acquisition, environmental education facilities as well as master, site-specific and trail plans.
Applications posted Aug. 3, with grant writing workshops slated for September (details TBD)
Applications due Nov. 5
Grants awarded March 2016
Special "Connect Initiative" (new)
Grants that focus on large trail projects and connecting local and regional trails.
This initiative is anticipated in 2016. Dates and details will be announced later..
School Play Yard grants
Grants that fund student inspired outdoor play and learning environments on school grounds. Applicants go through a two-step application process: Step 1 for design support and Step 2 for project construction.
Applications posted July 9.
Applications due Oct. 12.
Awards for design support: Dec. 10.
Awards for project construction: June 2016
Special "Inspire Initiative" (new)
Grants aimed at inspiring Coloradans, particularly kids, to appreciate, enjoy and take care of our great outdoors.
Planning applications due Aug. 26.
Planning grants awarded Oct. 23.
Implementation applications due August 2016.
Grants awarded October 2016.