[Grand Foundation](https://www.grandfoundation.com)

June 26, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | October 2, 2026 (Application)

Up to $15 million total available over the program; individual award size varies by project scope and benefit.

Supports projects improving aquatic/riparian habitat and water quality in the Colorado River watershed affected by the Windy Gap Project.

LOI required before full application; eligible entities must be 501(c)(3) public charities or equivalent.

--- ## Description The Windy Gap Fund, administered by the Grand Foundation, provides grant funding for projects that restore and enhance aquatic and riparian habitats, as well as water quality, in the Colorado River watershed upstream from Windy Gap Reservoir and downstream to its confluence with Williams Fork. The fund specifically targets environmental impacts caused by the Windy Gap Project, including issues such as increased water temperatures, sediment transport, aquatic health, and nutrient levels. Eligible projects may include efforts to improve aquatic species diversity, reduce silt and rooted vegetation, enhance fish movement, and benefit waterfowl and migratory bird habitats. Additional focus areas include wildfire resilience, post-fire restoration, drought resilience, and groundwater maintenance. Both pilot and phased projects are considered, and funding is commensurate with the anticipated environmental benefits. A collaborative selection committee reviews proposals to ensure maximum restoration impact and broad geographic benefit within the watershed. --- ## Due Dates - **Letter of Intent (LOI) Deadline:** June 26, 2026 - **Application Invitation:** September 2026 - **Application Deadline:** October 2, 2026 - **Committee Review:** October 2026 - **Grant/Contract Awarded:** November/December 2026 --- ## Funding Amount - **Total Program Funding:** Up to $15 million available over the life of the fund. - **Award Size:** No formal cap; awards are commensurate with project scope and environmental benefit. Funding has ranged from small design grants (~$25,000) to large implementation awards (over $1 million). - **Matching/Collaborative Requests:** Encouraged but not required. --- ## Eligibility - **Primary Eligibility:** - 501(c)(3) public charities (not private foundations), or - State or political subdivisions thereof (per IRS Section 170(c)(1)), or - State colleges or universities (per IRS Section 511(a)(2)(B)) - **Other Requirements:** - Organizations lacking 501(c)(3) status are encouraged to collaborate with eligible nonprofits. - Projects must be located in the Colorado River watershed upstream from Windy Gap Reservoir and downstream to the confluence with Williams Fork. - Applicants must provide a current Certificate of Good Standing from the Colorado Secretary of State. - If the project is on private land, applicants must demonstrate future sustainability (e.g., through conservation easements or deed restrictions). --- ## Application Process 1. **Letter of Intent (LOI):** - Submit LOI by June 26, 2026. - LOI should include organizational eligibility, project description, evaluation plan, statement of need, expected outcomes, evaluation approach, sustainability (if on private land), and preliminary budget. 2. **Invitation to Apply:** - Selected LOIs will be invited to submit full proposals in September 2026. 3. **Full Application:** - Submit by October 2, 2026. - Additional details may be requested during committee review, including oral presentations. 4. **Review & Award:** - Proposals are reviewed collaboratively by a six-member committee (equal representation from the Municipal Subdistrict and plaintiff groups). - Awards announced in November/December 2026. --- ## Additional Information - Projects are evaluated based on environmental restoration impact and geographic distribution. - There is no prioritization of sub-watersheds; all eligible projects are considered on merit. - Matching funds and collaborative approaches are encouraged to maximize impact. - The committee reserves the right to reject any or all LOIs/applications and is not responsible for preparation costs. --- ## External Links - [Windy Gap Fund Program Page](https://www.grandfoundation.com/Grants/Windy-Gap-Fund) - [LOI Guidelines (2026)](https://www.grandfoundation.com/Portals/0/2026%20LOI%20Updated.docx) - [Program History & Press Release](https://www.grandfoundation.com/Portals/0/2026%20WGEF%20press%20release.docx) - [Grand Foundation – About](https://www.grandfoundation.com/About) --- ## Contact Information | Name / Role | Contact Details | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------| | Megan Ledin, Executive Director | megan@grandfoundation.com
PO Box 1342, Winter Park, CO 80482
Phone: 970.887.3111 | ---

Windy Gap Fund

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