Irrigation Company Financial Sustainability Pilot Grant

The Colorado River District's Community Funding Partnership (CFP) has launched a pilot grant opportunity aimed at improving the long-term financial sustainability of irrigation companies across the Western Slope of Colorado. This special funding round, named the Irrigation Company Financial Sustainability Pilot Grant, seeks to support local water infrastructure managers in planning for critical infrastructure investments by funding capital improvement plans (CIPs) and rate studies. This effort is in response to the growing challenge of aging infrastructure and rising operational costs facing irrigation systems in the region. Administered by the Colorado River District, the program offers funding for up to 85% of total project costs, with the intent to empower irrigation and ditch companies to plan and budget effectively for future capital needs. These funds are intended to be used for the development of CIPs and associated rate studies, which are essential tools for understanding asset needs, establishing maintenance and replacement schedules, and ensuring financial preparedness for large-scale improvements. This grant opportunity reflects the River District's strategic focus on combining financial readiness with physical infrastructure planning to secure long-term water supply solutions. To be eligible, applicants must be located within the Colorado River District’s jurisdiction and must own or operate an irrigation ditch. Additionally, applicants are required to contract with a qualified engineering or consulting firm to complete the proposed work. Companies that have already completed a capital improvement plan are encouraged to apply for funding to conduct a rate study alone. The District encourages applications from a range of irrigation company sizes, locations, and operational models, and will prioritize proposals that align with basin-wide goals such as addressing water quality, mitigating low-flow conditions, or advancing regional water security. This pilot opportunity is competitive, and the River District anticipates recommending no more than five applications for award. All applicants must complete a required pre-application phone call with Community Funding Partnership staff to initiate the process. The application window closes on February 15, 2026, and selected grantees are expected to be notified in April 2026. Through this initiative, the Colorado River District continues its mission to support local water users with targeted funding that facilitates actionable planning and investment. The pilot grant program represents a proactive step toward equipping Western Slope irrigation systems with the financial and infrastructural tools they need to maintain operational resilience amid changing climatic and economic conditions.

Begin with the required call early; clarify regional eligibility; prepare to demonstrate how the project aligns with basin-wide objectives.