Outdoor Equity Fund

Opening spring 2025

Applications will re-open June 1, 2025.

Grant cycle closed

Outdoor Equity Fund Grant Guide

Please review our Grant Guide to learn more about the application process and eligibility requirements.

View English Guide Leer la Guía en Español

Access to the outdoors is a basic human right—yet many young people, particularly in rural, Tribal, and historically underserved communities, face significant barriers to experiencing the physical, mental, and social benefits of connecting with New Mexico’s great outdoors.

The first-of-its-kind Outdoor Equity Fund, established in 2019, aims to break down these barriers and ensure equitable access to the outdoors for all youth in New Mexico. This grant supports transformative outdoor experiences that foster stewardship and respect for New Mexico’s lands, waters, and cultural heritage while connecting youth to outdoor recreation career pathways.

Since 2020, the Outdoor Recreation Division has awarded $6.5 million, enabling more than 83,000 youth to participate in impactful outdoor experiences that nurture health, well-being, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors. These programs aim to inspire and shape the next generation of outdoor recreation and conservation leaders.

To view a complete list of projects funded by the Outdoor Equity Fund, visit the Grant Recipient Database and Grant Distribution Map.

Applications will open June 1, 2025 with $4 million in funding available.