Youth Outdoors Growth and Innovation Grant

The Youth Outdoors Growth and Innovation Grant is administered by the Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation, a division within the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This program represents an evolution of the former Nevada Outdoor Education and Recreation Grant Program and now serves as a dedicated funding stream focused specifically on youth. The initiative is supported through state legislative appropriations, including Assembly Bill 108, which allocates funding annually to expand outdoor education opportunities across Nevada. The program operates as part of a broader umbrella that also includes additional grant programs targeting community revitalization and science-based engagement. The primary purpose of the grant is to provide high quality outdoor education and recreation opportunities for youth aged 18 and younger throughout Nevada. The program prioritizes projects that serve youth who face barriers to outdoor access, including those from underserved communities or those qualifying for free or reduced price meal programs. Funded activities are intended to enhance academic achievement, improve physical and mental health, build personal responsibility, and foster a lasting connection to the natural environment. The grant emphasizes exposure to Nevada natural, ecological, agricultural, and cultural landscapes as a pathway to long term engagement with conservation and outdoor recreation. Funding is offered through two tiers. Tier I Microgrants provide awards up to 7500 dollars, while Tier II Impact Grants range from 7501 dollars to 50000 dollars. Funds may be used for a wide variety of eligible activities, including outdoor education programs, environmental stewardship initiatives, agricultural education, and recreation-based learning experiences such as hiking, camping, fishing, and outdoor camps. Allowable costs include equipment, supplies, transportation, lodging, staff time, and limited administrative expenses. However, certain activities are prohibited, including organized team sports, out of state travel beyond limited exceptions, and projects lacking an outdoor component. Eligibility is broad and inclusive, covering public agencies at all levels of government, public and private schools, nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, and community-based entities that directly deliver programming to Nevada youth. Applicants may partner with other organizations, but one eligible entity must serve as the lead applicant and assume responsibility for compliance and reporting. While matching funds are not required, they are strongly encouraged and can improve an application score, as projects demonstrating local investment are prioritized during evaluation. The application process includes several defined steps. Applicants must select the appropriate funding tier, complete the designated application form, and prepare a detailed project budget using the required Excel template. An optional feedback period allows applicants to submit draft applications for review by program staff prior to final submission. Final applications must be submitted via email and include all required materials such as the application form, budget documentation, and any supporting information. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted without prior approval. Applications are evaluated based on a structured scoring system that considers factors such as service to underserved youth, organizational capacity, project scope, budget clarity, and potential program impact. Tier I applications may be reviewed by staff alone, while Tier II applications undergo a more rigorous review by the Technical Advisory Committee and may require a presentation. Evaluation criteria emphasize measurable outcomes, alignment with program goals, and the ability to deliver meaningful outdoor experiences. The program follows a defined annual timeline. Applications for the current cycle open prior to August and close on October 5, 2026. An optional feedback period occurs during August, followed by a final submission window through early October. Applications are reviewed in the fall, with potential presentations in November for larger grants. Final award decisions are made in December, and funding agreements are prepared between December and January. Funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis, requiring grantees to incur costs upfront and submit documentation for repayment.

Focus on serving youth with barriers to outdoor access clearly define measurable outcomes provide detailed budget justification and demonstrate organizational capacity