Youth Conservation Corps Grant Program

The New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps Commission issues a Request for Proposals to support the planning, design, management, and implementation of Youth Conservation Corps projects across the state. The program is authorized under the New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps Act, which was established to employ young people in public service projects that conserve natural resources while delivering long term community benefits. The Commission operates under the State of New Mexico and seeks to fund projects that both improve public lands and provide meaningful workforce development and job training opportunities for youth residents of New Mexico. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that employ New Mexico residents between the ages of 14 and 25 in conservation and community improvement work. These projects must produce tangible public benefits and cannot duplicate routine services already performed by the applicant organization. Eligible activities include conservation of natural resources, improvements to parks and recreational facilities, disaster preparedness and recovery efforts, energy efficiency initiatives, and the restoration or enhancement of community infrastructure. Projects may also include cultural preservation, urban beautification, and services that support vulnerable populations such as the elderly or indigent. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, meaning awardees must initially cover expenses and then submit documentation for repayment. Each project may request up to 225000 dollars in funding, with a requirement that at least 70 percent of the awarded funds be allocated to corps member wages and associated employment costs. The remaining 30 percent may be used for training, supplies, and other project support costs. Additionally, applicants must provide a minimum 10 percent match, which may be in the form of cash or in kind contributions such as staff time, equipment, or volunteer labor. Projects are limited to a duration of 26 weeks and must employ at least five corps members. Eligible applicants include local governments, state and federal agencies operating within New Mexico, federally recognized Native American tribes, and nonprofit organizations registered under applicable federal and state laws. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to recruit, hire, and supervise corps members and must comply with all labor laws and program requirements. Each applicant may submit no more than two project proposals. Projects must be located on public lands or provide a clear public benefit if conducted on private property, supported by formal agreements and documentation. The application process requires submission of two primary documents: a proposal response and a cost response form. These must be submitted electronically as attachments via email to the designated contact person. The proposal must follow strict formatting guidelines and include detailed information on project design, staffing, safety protocols, training curriculum, and budget allocation. The evaluation process includes a pass fail screening followed by a scored review based on criteria such as organizational experience, project planning, safety, and training components. Final funding decisions are made by the Commission, which may adjust award amounts based on budget considerations and program priorities. The timeline for this funding opportunity begins with the issuance of the Request for Proposals on July 7 2026. Pre proposal conferences are offered in July and August to guide applicants, though attendance is not mandatory. Written questions must be submitted by early September, with responses posted shortly thereafter. Applications are due by September 23 2026 at 4 pm Mountain Time, and no late submissions are accepted. Evaluation and award decisions occur in the fall, with notifications expected in December. Contracts may extend up to eighteen months, depending on project timelines and approvals. Throughout the program, awardees are required to maintain detailed records, submit regular reimbursement requests, and report on project progress through a centralized tracking system. The program emphasizes accountability, workforce development, and measurable community impact. By funding projects that combine environmental stewardship with youth employment, the Youth Conservation Corps aims to strengthen both natural resource management and economic opportunity within the state of New Mexico.

Ensure budget meets 70 percent wage requirement and includes 10 percent match clearly document public benefit and avoid duplication of routine services