Town of Telluride Green Grant Program

The Green Grants program is administered by EcoAction Partners and funded by San Miguel County and the Telluride Foundation. The program is designed to support local sustainability initiatives that align with regional climate goals. EcoAction Partners operates as the administrative body, coordinating application intake, review, and grant distribution, while working closely with local stakeholders and review committees composed of regional experts and community members. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and community resilience across multiple counties in Colorado. The primary purpose of the Green Grants program is to help meet the targets outlined in the regional Climate Action Plan, specifically reducing greenhouse gas emissions by fifty percent by the year 2030 and ninety percent by 2050, using 2010 as a baseline. The program also emphasizes reducing energy costs, improving water conservation, and fostering innovative solutions that deliver environmental, economic, and social benefits. Projects are expected to contribute measurable outcomes such as emissions reduction, increased resilience to climate impacts, and improved efficiency in resource use. Funding is structured as a reimbursement grant, meaning that awardees must initially cover project costs and are reimbursed after completion and verification. The median grant award typically ranges between three thousand and nine thousand dollars for individuals, with higher amounts sometimes allocated to homeowner associations. Funds may only be used for costs directly associated with the proposed project, and general administrative expenses are generally not eligible unless specifically approved by the review committee. Projects must be completed and reported within the defined grant period, and recipients are required to submit follow up documentation and a testimonial for public dissemination. Eligibility for the program includes individuals, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, homeowner associations, and community spaces located within San Miguel, San Juan, West Montrose, or Ouray Counties. Projects must be local in nature and demonstrate measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The program encourages proposals that provide community wide benefits, prioritize underserved populations, and leverage additional funding sources such as rebates or private investment. Projects that demonstrate innovation, readiness, and strong environmental impact are prioritized. The application process requires an initial Intent to Apply submission, which serves as a preliminary step to gather basic project information. This step is mandatory and allows EcoAction Partners to provide guidance before applicants proceed to the full application. Applications must be submitted electronically, as hard copy submissions are not accepted. After submission, proposals are reviewed by regional committees that evaluate projects based on criteria including environmental impact, cost effectiveness, community benefit, financial need, and technological feasibility. The timeline for the 2027 funding cycle begins with the opening of the Intent to Apply form on August 1, 2026, followed by a deadline of October 30, 2026. Full applications are due on November 13, 2026, with award announcements scheduled for December 11, 2026. Grant agreements are finalized by January 9, 2027, and all funded projects must be completed, including reporting requirements, by November 1, 2027. The program operates on a recurring annual cycle, providing ongoing opportunities for eligible applicants to participate. Following award selection, funds are disbursed only after project completion, submission of required reports, and publication of a testimonial letter in local media. EcoAction Partners may require additional verification such as proof of address or income. While submitted information may be shared with partner organizations and local government staff, it is not shared with the federal government. Applicants may request confidentiality during the application process, although awarded projects become public. For further assistance, applicants may contact EcoAction Partners directly via email or phone for support throughout the application process.

Focus on measurable greenhouse gas reductions; demonstrate cost effectiveness and community benefit; leverage additional funding sources; ensure project readiness and approvals prior to submission