Announcements
Watch the 2022 Application Webinar recording here!
Typical Projects
- Backpacking, camping, or hiking trips for disadvantaged youth
- Canoeing, kayaking, or sailing camps
- Outdoor environmental education
- Fishing and hunting camps
- Orienteering
- Rock climbing adventures
Who May Apply?
- Community-based programs in Washington
- Formal school programs
- Informal after school programs
- Local agencies
- Native American tribes
- Nonprofit organizations
- Private entities including individuals and businesses
- Special purpose districts, such as park and recreation districts
- Stage agencies
- Veteran organizations
Only organizations that benefit youth in Washington State may apply.
Funding
Grants are awarded every other year. The Legislature provides funding from general tax dollars.
Grant Limits
There are three funding categories for this grant program
- Tier 1 Projects: $5,000-$25,000 for each project
- Tier 2 Projects: $5,000-$75,000 for each project
- Tier 3 Projects: $75,000-$150,000 for each project
Match Details
There is no match requirement for Tier 1 projects.
A match of 25 percent is required for Tier 2 and Tier 3 projects.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to provide matching resources to demonstrate a local commitment to the project and to make state funds available to more projects. To qualify, a match must be composed of elements that would be eligible in the No Child Left Inside program. Match may include the following:
- Appropriations and cash
- Donations of cash, materials, or the value of labor, equipment use, or services
- Applicant’s labor, equipment use, and materials
- Other grants
Eligible Programs
Outdoor education and recreation programs including the following:
- Backpacking
- Camping
- Canoeing and kayaking
- Environmental outdoor education
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Orienteering
- Outdoor cooking
- Rock climbing
Ineligible Projects
- Annual community festivals, expositions, promotional or fundraising events
- Facility construction projects
- Organized team sports such as soccer, baseball, and basketball
- Teacher training programs that do not include hands-on student participation
A full list of ineligible projects in the grant manual.
Long-Term Commitment
Equipment bought with grants should be retained for eligible or similar uses. See details in the grant manual.