Outdoor Equity Fund
Outdoor Equity Fund supports New Mexico youth through educational, nature-based outdoor programs that expand equitable access, foster stewardship and well-being, and build outdoor career pathways.
Funder: New Mexico Economic Development Department
Due Dates: June 12, 2026 (Round 1 Tier 2 LOI) | July 31, 2026 (Round 1 applications) | January 12, 2027 (Round 2 Tier 2 LOI) | February 26, 2027 (Round 2 applications)
Funding Amounts: Over $4 million available for FY27; Tier 1: $5,000–$40,000 over 18 months; Tier 2: up to $100,000 over 24 months
Summary: Supports educational, nature-based outdoor experiences that expand equitable access for New Mexico youth and foster stewardship, well-being, and outdoor career pathways.
Key Information: Programs must serve youth ages 18 and under, with at least 40% low-income participants.
Description
The Outdoor Equity Fund is administered by the New Mexico Economic Development Department’s Outdoor Recreation Division. Established in 2019, it supports meaningful outdoor experiences for New Mexico youth, particularly those in rural, Indigenous, and historically underserved communities. The fund seeks to remove barriers to outdoor access while nurturing physical, mental, and social well-being and respect for the state’s lands, waters, and cultural heritage.
Supported programming combines nature-based recreation with environmental education, cultural connection, conservation, stewardship, or workforce development. Examples include adaptive recreation, hiking, camping, fishing, cycling, rafting, nature journaling, and outdoor career training. FY27 introduces an invitation-only Tier 2 for high-impact programs with clear measures of outcomes and impact, with additional emphasis on youth workforce development.
