In 2021, Keep It Colorado partnered with GOCO to establish the Transaction Cost Assistance Program (TCAP), which re-grants GOCO funds to nonprofit land trusts to help cover the costs associated with conservation easement transactions.

Most of Colorado's land is privately owned, so working with landowners is key to protecting our outdoors. Private properties often contain important wildlife habitats, beautiful views, water resources, agricultural operations, and historic sites. However, as more people move to Colorado, landowners are experiencing increased pressure to develop.

A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement that permanently protects land from development. If you want to protect your land through a conservation easement, you'll likely face costs between $60,000 and $150,000 for appraisals, assessments, and legal fees. These expenses are significant barriers for some landowners. 

When urgent conservation opportunities arise, TCAP grants help landowners who face financial barriers conserve their land more quickly. Since the program's founding, these grants have helped protect thousands of acres of important land for future generations.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants include nonprofit land trusts that are current Keep It Colorado members.

When to apply

First Cycle

  • RFP available: August 2025
  • Applications due to Keep it Colorado: TBD
  • Grants awarded: December 2025

Second Cycle

  • RFP available: January 2026
  • Applications due to Keep it Colorado: TBD
  • Grants awarded: June 2026

Apply to this program

The grant application process and the administration of awarded grants is managed by Keep It Colorado. The application is available to current Keep It Colorado members on their member portal.

Questions? Contact Keep It Colorado’s Programs Manager at hannah@keepitco.org.

Learn more from Keep It Colorado