Search Through Public Policy Grants in Colorado in the U.S.

The Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation supports organizations in Southeast Michigan and Metropolitan Denver focused on improving lives through health, youth, and animal welfare initiatives. They offer grants for project development, capital expenses, and unique circumstances. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that address underserved community needs, ensuring sustainable impact and enhanced access to essential services. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate non-discriminatory practices in their operations.

The Habitat Partnership Program (HPP) aims to mitigate wildlife conflicts, particularly with big game species in Colorado. It supports agricultural operators by enhancing migratory corridors and promoting private land conservation. Funded by a portion of hunting license revenues, HPP requires matching contributions for projects. Eligible applicants include agencies and individuals, while prioritizing collaborations. Projects can involve fence improvements, habitat enhancements, water development, and emergency conflict response, all focused on effective wildlife management and conservation efforts.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Colorado Health Foundation offers the Rapid Response: Advocacy Grant Program to support short-term advocacy initiatives that promote health equity in Colorado. There is no application deadline; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions generally made within 45 days. Eligible organizations can focus on time-sensitive public policy advocacy addressing priorities such as access to quality healthcare, children's safety, and affordable housing. This grant empowers community-driven solutions to enhance health outcomes for underserved populations.

Gary Community Ventures is an impermanent philanthropic organization committed to using all of its resources by 2035 to transform systems and build wealth for Colorado kids and families.

Using a powerful mix of catalytic grantmaking, impact investments, policy and advocacy and the development of new ventures, we create opportunities for Coloradans to thrive now and for generations to come.

Our mission is to partner with our community to leverage business, policy and philanthropy to reshape the arc of opportunity for Colorado kids and families.

Afterschool & Summer Enrichment for All

This RFP seeks to identify local systems ready to replicate My Spark-like programming (see program case study) in other locations throughout Colorado and to model the future of out-of-school learning — one where access is universal, funding is sustainable, and all kidshave opportunities to find their spark.

Description

Gary is seeking to identify a cohort of approximately 3-5 public systems (counties, cities and school districts) and/or the intermediary partners that seek to dramatically scale their out of school enrichment and learning opportunities, particularly for lower-income kids, through My Spark-like programming. The key components of My-Spark like programming are:

• Resourcing kids and families directly with funds to spend on afterschool and summer enrichment opportunities
• Supporting a wide variety of afterschool and summer providers - from arts to sports to tutoring and more - and including nonprofit, business and government providers
• Prioritizing student choice and interest

Priority will be given to proposals that:

• Serve Metro Denver (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver and Jefferson counties), though Colorado locations outside of Metro Denver will also be considered.
• Represent public/private partnerships - we believe that ultimately both public and private stakeholders need to be at the table to make this successful.

The Region 4 Professional Development Awards for 2025-2026 foster the growth of health information access and data science skills among network members. This funding supports diverse projects such as workshops, conferences, and educational activities aimed at enhancing the professional capacity of individuals affiliated with NNLM Region 4. By encouraging proposals that address the needs of underrepresented communities, the awards aim to improve health information services and access across the region.

The Collective Wellbeing: Housing Grant Opportunity by the Colorado Gives Foundation aims to enhance access to affordable housing in Jefferson County. This grant supports nonprofits working on public awareness, advocacy, and policy efforts to alleviate housing burdens. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on serving the Jeffco community, ensuring impactful solutions for residents in need of stable housing options.

The Adolph Coors Public Policy Grant Programs support organizations that embody western values like self-reliance and personal responsibility. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote youth prosperity, economic opportunities for adults, and public policies reflecting America’s founding principles. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, with a focus on rural Colorado nonprofits. The Foundation does not fund projects in areas such as arts, health, or international components, ensuring a clear alignment with its mission.

The Adolph Coors Foundation's Youth and Adult Grant Programs support initiatives that promote self-reliance and integrity among Coloradans. Priorities include mentoring for youth, vocational training for adults, and fostering entrepreneurship. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities operating in Colorado, while special consideration is given to rural nonprofits. The Foundation aims for evidence-based results and transformational outcomes, focusing on programs that empower communities and enhance economic opportunities.

The Best and Brightest Management Fellowship Program in Colorado aims to connect students with local governments, providing valuable internships and fellowships that enhance their public service experience. Targeting high school and undergraduate students, as well as graduate students in public administration, the program promotes diversity and leadership within communities. By collaborating with universities and municipalities, it ensures that future leaders reflect the demographics of their communities while gaining essential skills for effective governance.

The Dr. Virgilio Licona Community Health Leadership Award honors exceptional leaders in Colorado who tackle significant health barriers and promote health equity. This annual award recognizes individuals for their impactful contributions to community health, encouraging innovative solutions that address critical issues. Awardees receive a $20,000 donation to support their nonprofit or another organization enhancing the health of Coloradans. The initiative aims to inspire others to pursue excellence in community health leadership.

The Buell Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance children's education and development in Colorado. Focused on underserved communities, it prioritizes early childhood programs, evaluations, and quality improvements. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, directing funds to those committed to impactful initiatives. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities with a dedication to non-discrimination and community engagement. The foundation aims to create sustainable support for programs that foster positive outcomes for children.

The Colorado Health Foundation aims to empower young people in Colorado, particularly those facing health inequities, including youth of color and LGBTQ+ individuals. Their funding focuses on creating equitable outdoor spaces that foster community engagement and active participation. By prioritizing planning grants for outdoor projects, the Foundation seeks to address barriers to physical activity in low-income and rural communities, encouraging holistic health through collaborative design and inclusivity.

The Vibrant Communities: Health Grant Opportunity supports nonprofits in Jefferson County by funding initiatives that promote holistic wellbeing. This includes enhancing mental, social, spiritual, and physical health through operational support for organizations focused on Medicaid enrollment, public education campaigns, and community-building efforts. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Jeffco residents, demonstrating measurable impact in the community. This grant aims to foster vibrant, connected communities in Jeffco.

The Peace Officer Behavioral Health Support and Community Partnership Grant Program in Colorado provides funding for law enforcement and public safety agencies to enhance behavioral health services. With approximately $1.7 million available, eligible applicants include peace officer organizations and behavioral health providers collaborating with law enforcement. The program aims to support co-responder initiatives, mental health training, and peer support, ultimately improving community safety and officer well-being.

The Women & Girls of Color Fund focuses on empowering women and girls of color in Colorado through targeted investments in their leadership and economic security. With only 0.5% of foundation funding allocated to this demographic, the fund aims to dismantle systemic barriers and uplift community-led initiatives. Prioritizing organizations led by women of color, it supports diverse programs that enhance economic opportunities while addressing intersecting oppressions, thereby fostering a brighter future for all.

The Sumners Foundation Grant aims to engage and educate the public about self-government through various programs, including civic education, democracy reform, and teacher training. Grants are available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, supporting activities that foster civic engagement and understanding of democratic principles. The Foundation emphasizes direct involvement in the political process and does not fund political activities or provide individual grants.

The Caring For Colorado Grant Program focuses on public policy advocacy to enhance the health and well-being of children, youth, and families in Colorado. This initiative supports organizations that advocate for equitable access to resources and promote justice. Funding can be used for various purposes, including capacity building and public education. The program emphasizes collaboration with young people and prioritizes efforts that address systemic inequities.

The Vibrant Communities: Convenient Neighborhoods Grant Opportunity, provided by the Colorado Gives Foundation, aims to enhance access to community spaces in Jefferson County. This initiative supports nonprofits working towards improved public transportation, increased outdoor green spaces, and the establishment of integrated community hubs. By ensuring easy access to parks, farmers markets, and recreation centers, the grant fosters overall health and wellbeing for all residents. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits committed to serving the Jeffco community.

The Bezos Scholars Program, supported by the Bezos Family Foundation, is a transformative, no-cost leadership development initiative designed for high school juniors. Each year, selected scholars from the U.S. and Africa engage in a year-long program, developing leadership skills through civic engagement and community projects. Participants receive personalized college advising, funding for their projects, and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Aspen Ideas Festival, fostering a diverse community of changemakers committed to making a difference.

The Ambassador Scholarship, funded by The Denver Foundation, offers undergraduate scholarships to participants of the Ambassador Leadership and Scholarship Program, covering unmet financial needs. One student annually is awarded this scholarship, which is renewable for up to four years if eligibility criteria are met, including maintaining a GPA of at least 2.0. Additionally, two runner-up scholarships of $2,500 are available for finalists. Awards can be used for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

The Colorado Trust's 'Building Food Systems' initiative seeks to enhance access to nutritious and affordable food for individuals facing barriers to health. This funding aims to support organizations that assist those experiencing food insecurity, ultimately promoting healthier eating habits and increasing economic stability. The initiative aligns with the Trust's mission to foster community resilience and ensure equitable opportunities for all Coloradans to lead healthy lives.

The WINcome Grant, launched by the Women's Foundation of Colorado, is a multi-year grant opportunity set to commence in 2024. Emphasizing economic advancement through trust and decision-making, this initiative aims to empower individuals and families. The grant will support organizations with flexible cash assistance and general operating funds, fostering systemic changes that promote gender, racial, and economic equity for women and families in Colorado. Application cycles will resume in 2027.