Department of Dirt Grant Opportunity
The Wisconsin Bike Fed’s Department of Dirt is announcing its first ever micro-grant opportunity.
A total of $2,000 is available in grant funding to support mountain bike projects across Wisconsin.
These grants are intended to help local communities, clubs, organizations, and volunteers bring impactful trail projects to life, maintain trails, and/or expand access to quality riding opportunities throughout the state. This is part of our commitment to being the leading statewide advocate for mountain biking in Wisconsin, and here’s what you need to know to get started.
We have up to $2,000 available to award, but how those funds are distributed will depend on the applications we receive. For example, if we receive four strong applications, we may choose to award $500 to each applicant. Final awards will be based on both the number of applications submitted and the amount of funding requested.
We do know that we want to move fast to give people the opportunity to use the money this summer. Because of that, we are opening the application process on May 30. The application window closes on June 30, and we will announce the recipients on July 31.
What can the funding be used for? We’re glad you asked. Funding can be used for shovel-ready trail projects or existing trails. Want to hire a builder to teach kids trail building techniques? Great. Do you need tools and equipment to complete or maintain a trail? Do you need more signage? Those are great reasons to apply! We’re flexible.
If you are improving an existing trail system, building new connections, or investing in volunteer education, we encourage you to apply and get support for innovative projects that create lasting community impact. Please be aware that you will be asked how this project aligns with the mission of the Wisconsin Bike Fed. You can find that here.
Good luck to all the applicants, and we look forward to reading the applications and learning about all the great things happening across the state.
Feature photo:
Rocky Knoll Trail System, Plymouth Wisconsin, photo by Carrie Kost, Sheboygan County Cycling