By @Kyle Packham
The Outdoor Equity Grants Program (OEP) improves the health and wellness of Californians through new educational and recreational activities, service learning, career pathways, and leadership opportunities that strengthen a connection to the natural world. OEP’s intent is to increase the ability of residents in underserved communities to participate in outdoor experiences within their community, at state parks, and other natural areas within California.
OEP will fund program operation, transportation, staffing, equipment/supplies, and other activity costs. Land acquisition, land development/construction, or acquisition of vehicles are not eligible costs under OEP.
Details:
• Grants up to $700,000 per application may be awarded. One applicant may receive multiple grant awards that exceed $700,000. Minimum grant request per community home base is $20,000. There is no match requirement.
• All applications must be submitted before 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 14, 2023.
• Grant awards will be announced by summer 2024.
Eligible Applicants:
• Public Agencies: Includes all local, state, and federal agencies. Examples include school districts and other public education agencies, cities and counties, joint powers authorities, open-space authorities, regional open- space districts, Federal and State recognized tribes, and other relevant public agencies.
• Non-profits with 501(c)(3) status
Eligible applicants should use the OEP Application Guide to start planning their outdoor programs now.
Competitive Review Project Officers are available to provide technical assistance and answer any questions regarding OEP. Competitive Review Project Officers can be found on this chart and are listed by county under the green column.
Visit parks.ca.gov/oep to learn more about OEP.
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