Outdoor Equity Fund

The Outdoor Equity Fund is administered by the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, a division of the Economic Development Department of New Mexico, and was established in 2019 through state legislation. It is recognized as the first state-funded outdoor equity grant program in the United States and is designed to expand access to outdoor recreation opportunities for youth across New Mexico. The program operates within a broader mission to strengthen communities, promote environmental stewardship, and grow the state’s outdoor economy. Since its inception, the fund has awarded over $10.5 million to organizations serving youth across numerous counties and tribal communities, demonstrating a sustained commitment to increasing equitable access to outdoor experiences. The primary purpose of the Outdoor Equity Fund is to remove barriers that prevent youth, particularly those from low-income, rural, Indigenous, and historically underserved communities, from accessing meaningful outdoor activities. Funded programs are expected to provide nature-based outdoor recreation experiences combined with educational components that address environmental and climate awareness. Programs may also incorporate cultural connections, workforce development opportunities, and stewardship activities. The initiative emphasizes long-term impact, including fostering lifelong connections to the outdoors and preparing youth for potential careers in outdoor and environmental fields. Funding is offered through two tiers. Tier 1 provides awards ranging from $5,000 to $40,000, while Tier 2 supports larger, high-impact programs with awards ranging from $40,001 to $100,000. Tier 2 participation requires submission of a letter of interest and is offered by invitation only. The total available funding for the fiscal cycle exceeds $4 million. Grant funds may be used for a wide range of eligible expenses including program services, equipment and supplies, transportation, staff and contractor labor, and administrative costs up to a capped percentage. However, restrictions apply, and funds cannot be used for infrastructure development, out-of-state travel, vehicle purchases, one-time events, or programs lacking substantial outdoor engagement. Eligibility for the program is broad but limited to public and nonprofit entities within New Mexico. Eligible applicants include tribes, pueblos, and nations; municipalities and counties; nonprofit organizations; public preschools and K-12 schools; school districts; and public colleges and universities. Programs must serve youth aged 18 and under, with at least 40 percent of participants identified as low-income. Additional requirements include incorporating an environmental education component, submitting required progress and final reports, and adhering to budgetary and documentation standards. Tier 2 applicants must also demonstrate organizational capacity, including a minimum annual operating budget and the ability to deliver high-impact programming with measurable outcomes. The application process is structured in two annual rounds. For each round, Tier 2 applicants must first submit a letter of interest within a defined window. Full applications for both tiers are then accepted during a subsequent period. Applicants are required to attend one informational webinar or Q&A session prior to submission. Applications are submitted through an online portal, and required components include program descriptions, budgets, match documentation where applicable, and supporting materials such as quotes for contracted services. Evaluation criteria focus on program impact, alignment with equity goals, budget clarity, environmental education integration, and community support. Applications are reviewed by a committee that scores submissions based on established criteria and makes funding recommendations. Awards are competitive, and applicants may receive partial funding depending on scoring outcomes. Notifications are typically issued within two months of the application deadline. Once approved, funds are distributed in full upon execution of the grant agreement and submission of required documentation. Program timelines vary by tier, with Tier 1 projects required to be completed within 18 months and Tier 2 projects within 24 months. The Outdoor Equity Fund operates on a recurring annual cycle aligned with the state fiscal year. Application windows typically open in July and February, with corresponding pre-application deadlines for Tier 2 letters of interest in June and January. The program encourages early engagement through webinars and direct consultation with the Grants Coordinator. Organizations are also encouraged to apply for future cycles after meeting reporting and expenditure requirements from prior awards. The program’s recurring structure and emphasis on equity and access make it a consistent funding opportunity for organizations working to expand outdoor experiences for youth across New Mexico.

Ensure strong impact on underserved youth; align budget with program; include environmental education; demonstrate community support