Human-Bear Conflict Reduction Community Grant Program

The Human-Bear Conflict Reduction Community Grant Program, administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), is a state-funded initiative designed to assist Colorado communities in addressing and mitigating conflicts between humans and black bears. As part of Colorado's broader wildlife and public safety strategy, this program plays a critical role in helping local governments and organizations reduce attractants that draw bears into populated areas. It also supports the development and implementation of effective deterrent strategies. In alignment with CPW’s broader bear management and conflict response efforts, the grant promotes both traditional and innovative solutions to ensure human safety and bear conservation throughout the state. The program’s funding scope for 2026 includes a total of $1 million in available grant awards, with individual awards ranging from a minimum of $50,000 to a maximum of $500,000. Projects eligible for funding must show direct community benefit, demonstrate strong local support, and present a cost-effective approach likely to produce long-lasting impact. Priority is given to proposals from communities that have enforceable rules related to waste management and bear-attractant control, as such regulations are proven to be effective in reducing conflicts. Proposals may include initiatives such as reducing attractants or utilizing hazing techniques to discourage bear intrusions, provided they are supported by the community and aligned with proven or promising methods. Entities eligible to apply include local and county governments, park and recreation departments, open space departments, landowners, businesses, tribes, universities, and nonprofit organizations. The program encourages collaborative efforts, particularly among applicants with limited experience managing grants. Local partnerships with CPW staff or other governmental agencies are recommended for those needing administrative support. While private businesses may apply, their proposals must clearly articulate community benefit and may not use grant funds for profit generation. Applications focused solely on research or lacking local engagement are ineligible. A key component of the program is the 25% matching requirement, now mandatory for all applicants. This cost-share can be fulfilled through cash contributions, in-kind services, or third-party donations. Applicants who are unable to meet this requirement may request a formal exemption, providing a financial justification, an explanation of the impact on their project if not exempted, and a demonstration of good faith efforts to secure support. Detailed documentation of matching contributions must be submitted alongside reimbursement requests to validate compliance with the match requirement. The submission process includes several distinct phases. Applications for the 2026 cycle opened on February 2nd and are due by May 29th at 5:00 p.m. MT. Applications will undergo initial review by CPW regional staff through late June, followed by a panel evaluation between late June and late July. The grant panel will then submit funding recommendations to CPW leadership, with award notifications expected in late August. Approved projects will move into the contracting and compliance phase through March 2027, with the final project completion deadline set for December 31, 2029. Applicants must submit complete applications through the CPW platform and adhere to all program requirements, including financial reporting and performance documentation. The program coordinator, Travis Long, is available for assistance and can be reached at [email protected]. CPW emphasizes that successful applicants must commit to quarterly and final project reporting, appropriate use of funds, and, where required, allow for on-site inspections. The program aims to serve as a replicable model for conflict reduction statewide, offering both financial resources and a strategic framework for long-term bear-human coexistence.

Projects in communities with enforceable trash management rules are prioritized. Strong local support and complete match documentation increase competitiveness.