Wyoming Youth for Natural Resources Grant

The Wyoming Youth for Natural Resources program is a funding initiative administered by the Wyoming Wildlife Foundation, which is a priority fund of the Wyoming Community Foundation. The Wyoming Community Foundation is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people who care with causes that matter to improve the quality of life for Wyoming residents. Through this program, the foundation supports conservation education and youth engagement in projects that promote the protection, sustainable use, and appreciation of Wyoming’s natural resources. The purpose of the Wyoming Youth for Natural Resources program is to foster youth involvement in science-based wildlife conservation and natural resource management. The program seeks to encourage young people to learn about and contribute to Wyoming’s ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and conservation practices while exploring the application of science and technology for the well-being of local communities. Eligible projects are expected to engage students directly, emphasize experiential learning, and promote environmental stewardship among youth populations. Applicants are asked to design proposals that meet one or more of the program’s priority elements. Projects may focus on addressing conservation issues such as habitat protection, open space enhancement, and the impacts of industrial development on wildlife. Initiatives can also promote best practices in natural resource management, encourage volunteerism in conservation, and integrate new technologies such as geographic information systems or remote sensing into outdoor learning. Proposals should demonstrate sustainability beyond the period of grant support, showing how the work will continue to have an impact after funding concludes. The evaluation of proposals is guided by several key criteria. Reviewers assess whether projects are youth-centered and actively involve young participants, whether the project design emphasizes programmatic work rather than equipment purchases, and whether measurable outcomes and objectives are clearly articulated. Applications are further strengthened by evidence of collaboration with other organizations or agencies and by leveraging additional funding sources to maximize the program’s reach. Applications that fail to submit final reports from prior grants are not considered for future funding. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, public schools, youth organizations, and certain governmental agencies. Organizations must be in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service. The program does not fund individuals, and organizations are typically limited to one application within a twelve-month period. This ensures broad distribution of support across Wyoming communities while maintaining accountability through required final reporting. The application process follows a clear annual timeline. Proposals are accepted beginning September 1 and must be submitted no later than November 1. Applications are reviewed annually by the Wyoming Wildlife Foundation Advisory Board, which makes recommendations based on alignment with conservation and education priorities. Successful applicants can expect decisions and awards after the close of the review period, with funded projects advancing youth engagement in conservation across the state of Wyoming. The program recurs annually, creating regular opportunities for organizations to apply for support in future cycles.

Ensure proposals are youth-centered, emphasize project design over equipment requests, clearly state measurable outcomes, and highlight collaboration and additional funding support.