Outdoor Equity Fund accepting applications

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Economic Development Department's Outdoor Recreation Division invites organizations to apply for the FY26 Outdoor Equity Fund, supporting programs that connect youth from communities across New Mexico to enriching outdoor experiences.

The first of two FY26 rounds opened on June 1 and will close July 31, 2025. A second cycle will run from January 1 to January 31, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to review the grant guide and register for an informational webinar on June 12 at 3 PM or July 15 at 5:30 PM on the grant webpage at nmoutside.com/grants/outdoor-equity-fund.

"Quality time outdoors benefits a young person's health and well-being, and plants the seed for future careers that support New Mexico's growing outdoor recreation economy," Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Rob Black said. "Supporting youth in building outdoor job skills is key to developing a strong, locally rooted workforce ready to sustain this vital industry."

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed New Mexico's Outdoor Recreation Division into law on April 2, 2019. Since its launch, the division has awarded $6.5 million through the Outdoor Equity Fund to 284 programs, serving more than 83,000 young people across 23 counties and Tribal communities. The impact is far-reaching: funded programs have included fly-fishing and mountain biking, trail building and river restoration, and cultural education incorporating Indigenous knowledge, language, and storytelling.

"Investing in outdoor equity is investing in the health, education, and economy of our state," Outdoor Recreation Division Director Karina Armijo said. "Whether it's improving health outcomes, opening doors to new careers, or building a sense of place and pride, these programs help young people develop lifelong connections to nature and their communities." 

Now in its sixth year, the Outdoor Equity Fund opened with $3 million available to support a wide range of initiatives, including those that provide workforce development opportunities through hands-on training in outdoor careers, such as wilderness leadership, conservation, and outdoor entrepreneurship. These programs help build a pipeline of skilled, homegrown talent to support and grow New Mexico's outdoor economy.

To apply or learn more, visit NMOutside.com.