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Funding & Technical Assistance
Rural Economic Development Initiative Grant (REDI)
Applications open January 7 and close Feb. 4, 2026 | Details here. Are you REDI to build some economic resilience in your community? REDI is intended to support rural communities in creating jobs locally and building economic resilience. Join us on December 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. to learn about who and what types of projects are eligible for REDI as well as to hear stories from a panel of past REDI grantees about why REDI worked for them and what exciting projects they are bringing to life in their communities.
Cooperative Housing, Jobs and Food Access Grants
Deadline: February 9 | Details here. The Cooperative Development Foundation (CDF) supports organizations that use cooperative models to strengthen communities through self-help and mutual aid. For 2026, the Cooperative Development Fund will prioritize projects that address urgent community needs through housing co-ops, worker co-ops that create good jobs, and food co-ops that expand access to healthy food. Funding supports cooperative development, research, and technical assistance. Eligible applicants include organizations working in areas such as affordable housing, employment, and food access using collaborative approaches.
Grants for Arts Projects
Deadline: February 12 | Details here. The National Endowment for the Arts’ Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) program provides project-based funding to nonprofit organizations and government units.Funded projects span a wide range of disciplines, including arts education, dance, music, theater, visual and media arts, literary arts, folk and traditional arts, and multidisciplinary works, as well as arts and health initiatives.
Seed Funding for Early Childhood Development Programs
Deadline: January 31 | Details here. The Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood provides seed funding for projects that improve the well-being of children from birth to age seven. Support focuses on early childhood welfare, education and play, and parenting education, with an emphasis on research-driven models that help young children succeed. The Foundation looks for imaginative ideas that can influence early learning, caregiving, and family support.
Fighting Hunger in Communities Grants
Deadline: January 31 | Details here. The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that are working to reduce hunger in their communities. Funding is available for programs that offer direct food assistance, rescue surplus food for redistribution, or provide nutrition education connected to food access. The Foundation aims to strengthen community-based hunger relief efforts and improve access to healthy food for people facing food insecurity.
Capital Funding to Strengthen Nonprofit Infrastructure
Deadline: February 1 | Details here. The Bolger Foundation provides capital funding to nonprofit organizations working to strengthen their infrastructure and better serve their communities. Grants specifically support projects that improve or expand tangible property owned by the applicant. Eligible capital efforts include constructing or enlarging facilities, upgrading buildings or grounds, and purchasing long-lasting equipment such as technology or specialized tools. The Foundation aims to empower nonprofits by investing in the physical resources they need to advance their mission.
Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grants
Deadline: February 24 | Details here. The U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program provides grants for planning or constructing surface transportation infrastructure projects that will improve safety; environmental sustainability; quality of life; mobility and community connectivity; economic competitiveness and opportunity including tourism; state of good repair; partnership and collaboration; and innovation.
Climate Smart Communities Initiative Grants
Deadline: March 12, 2026. | Details here. The Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) is now accepting applications from communities looking to accelerate their climate resiliency plans and projects. Awards range from $75,000-$115,000. The funds can be used over a twelve-month period to advance a range of activities including risk assessments, community engagement, and implementation.
Resources & News
2026 Business Outlook
By Chris Romer, President & CEO, Vail Valley Partnership | As we enter 2026, many Eagle County businesses are asking the same questions: What will the economic landscape look like? Where should we focus our energy? And how do we prepare for the uncertainties that seem to define every new year? Last month’s U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Update offered a valuable look at the national trends shaping our local conversations. While Washington often feels far away, the policies created there have very real implications for employers here in the mountains. From Vail to Gypsum, our business community continues to demonstrate resilience and creativity. Staying informed and engaged is more important than ever. Read more here.
Preview CML's Legislative Priorities
Read it online. The Colorado Municipal League is proud to advance and defend municipal interests in the state legislature. The January issue of Colorado Municipalities presents CML’s priorities for 2026 at the Colorado General Assembly. In a tight budget year, CML will urge state lawmakers to respect local autonomy while providing funding for new mandates, rather than shifting the financial burden to cities and towns. The magazine includes articles on how CML develops policy positions, the importance of local control when it comes to land use and planning, and a year-in-review of CML’s efforts to support cities and towns in state courts. Advocacy on behalf of our members advances CML’s vision of empowered cities and towns, united for a strong Colorado!
Colorado Department of Local Affairs Local Community Funding Guide
The Division of Local Government (DLG) created this comprehensive resource to help local governments and nonprofit community organizations navigate the funding sources available through a variety of Federal and State programs. While not an exhaustive list, this guide is updated frequently as new information is available.
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