Tahoe for All

The California Tahoe Conservancy has announced the availability of funding through the Tahoe for All Grant Program. This program provides up to $400,000 in grant funding to support projects and programs that create inclusive outdoor experiences for communities facing barriers to accessing recreation opportunities in the Lake Tahoe Basin. The Conservancy, a state agency, is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the Basin’s natural environment while improving recreational access for all. Its mission aligns with ensuring that historically underserved and excluded communities have equitable opportunities to enjoy Lake Tahoe’s outdoor resources. The Tahoe for All Program seeks to address economic, cultural, physical, social, and geographic barriers that prevent equitable access to outdoor recreation. Examples of such barriers include socio-economic disparities, poverty, racial and ethnic discrimination, geographic isolation, disabilities, lack of resources or skills, and feelings of exclusion. Communities identified as underserved include people of color, low-income households, people with disabilities, English learners, foster youth, and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects funded under this program must focus on reducing these barriers while enhancing recreational or educational experiences in the California portion of the Basin. The program allows for flexibility in project scope, as awards can support initiatives such as inclusive trail improvements, adaptive outdoor equipment, culturally responsive programming, youth leadership opportunities, or community partnerships that expand access. The Conservancy has provided examples of previously funded projects, including immersive outdoor education for low-income students, adaptive paddling programs for individuals with disabilities, and multilingual trailhead signage upgrades. Eligible costs include staff time, project-specific supplies and equipment, travel expenses in accordance with state guidelines, training, outreach, and reasonable indirect costs. Ineligible expenses include gift cards, commemorative items, operational equipment like vehicles, and lobbying or fundraising activities. Eligible applicants include local governments, state and federal agencies, special districts, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, the Tahoe Transportation District, federally recognized tribes, and nonprofit organizations registered in California with qualifying purposes. All projects must occur within the Conservancy’s jurisdiction on the California side of the Basin. Applicants must demonstrate that their projects reduce barriers, increase access, and provide meaningful recreational or educational experiences to be competitive. Scoring criteria include providing enjoyable and inclusive experiences, reducing barriers, serving historically excluded groups, offering long-term positive impacts, demonstrating readiness, and presenting a clear and reasonable budget. The application process is two-phased. A Pre-Application is required and due by October 30, 2025, to allow the Conservancy to review eligibility and alignment with program goals. Full applications are due December 19, 2025, and must be submitted via email in PDF or Microsoft Word format. A technical assistance workshop will be held virtually on October 6, 2025, to provide support and answer applicant questions. Applications will be reviewed and scored by Conservancy staff and the Advisory Committee, with recommended project selections expected by January 31, 2026. The Conservancy Board will consider awards at its March 2026 meeting, and grant agreements are expected to be finalized by June 2026. Projects may last from one to three years, beginning upon execution of the grant agreement. Applicants seeking additional guidance are encouraged to review the Conservancy’s Agency-Wide Grant Guidelines, which provide direction on administration, reporting, reimbursement, and compliance with state requirements such as the California Environmental Quality Act. Technical assistance is available from the program coordinator at Tahoeforall@tahoe.ca.gov. The Conservancy strongly encourages organizations serving disadvantaged communities to apply, noting that many barriers to outdoor access may not be captured by statewide mapping tools. This program reflects the Conservancy’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that Lake Tahoe’s outdoor experiences are accessible to all Californians.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Conservancy staff, attend the October 6 workshop, and ensure clear budgets and strong partnerships.