Background

In August 2023, the Metro Denver Nature Alliance (Metro DNA) Steering Committee unanimously decided to create a vision that lays the foundation for a regional collective impact model and greater resources for our collective goals. In service of that vision, Metro DNA will be providing funding for multiple demonstration projects designed to help prioritize and catalyze greater investments in habitat protection and connection, and equitable access to nature across the seven-county metro Denver region. One of our goals is to gain greater understanding of barriers, opportunities, and best practices in urban conservation in the region.  In keeping with the “experimental” nature of this first round of projects, Metro DNA will be engaging recipients in learning how the projects might inform, guide, and strengthen the foundation for a regional vision for people and nature.

Considerations

• In the initial funding round, we will be prioritizing projects from existing members of Metro DNA and/or organizations closely affiliated and/or in partnership with existing members of Metro DNA.  

• Metro DNA will also be prioritizing projects that are already partially funded and plan to be completed within one year of the grant award.

• In hopes of providing high-level guidance for how Metro DNA will likely be selecting projects, we have created this document with a range of likely selection criteria, definitions related to those criteria, and some example projects.

Application & Timing

• Click here to submit your project application (Google account required).

• To help you draft your proposal, click here to download a PDF document with the application questions.

• Proposals are due Wednesday, November 15, 2023. 

• We will be hosting a virtual open house session to learn more about the funding opportunity on Monday, October 30 at 12:00 pm (Link to Zoom meeting: https://tnc.zoom.us/j/95102214471?from=addon). 

• We plan to provide notice on grant awards to all who apply by the end of January 2024.