The Polaris TRAILS Grants program

The Polaris TRAILS GRANTS Program, launched in January 2006, is an initiative by Polaris Inc., a manufacturer of off-road vehicles, to support and sustain recreational trail access and development throughout the United States and Canada. This program reflects Polaris' longstanding commitment to responsible recreation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement within the off-road and snowmobiling community. By funding trail-focused projects, Polaris aims to ensure safe, sustainable, and enjoyable riding experiences for generations of off-road enthusiasts. TRAILS GRANTS are designed to fund projects that promote safe and responsible riding, preserve trail systems, and protect the environment and natural resources associated with off-road areas. Eligible projects include off-road trail development and maintenance, safety and education initiatives, and broader efforts to increase or retain land access for motorized trail use. The program supports a wide range of off-road vehicles including ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles, and complements Polaris’ RIDE COMMAND mapping system, which serves as a central trail and navigation tool for many users. Organizations applying to the program can request either monetary grants or product donations, up to $10,000 annually. Importantly, eligible entities may apply for up to two grants per year, allowing for multiple project phases or initiatives to be funded across the calendar year. All applicants must be officially designated 501(c)(3), 501(c)(7), government, or other qualified nonprofit entities. Applicants are also required to provide a GPX or shapefile of their trail systems for integration with Polaris RIDE COMMAND, particularly if the grant is being used for trail development, maintenance, or equipment purchases. This ensures alignment between funded efforts and Polaris’ trail mapping and safety systems. Applications are accepted biannually, with deadlines of March 1st for the Spring cycle and September 1st for the Fall cycle. Following submission, applications are reviewed by the TRAILS GRANTS committee, with notifications issued within the same month. All grant recipients must submit a Results Report upon project completion, including photographs that document the “before, during, and after” phases of the project. This follow-up is a prerequisite for future funding eligibility and ensures accountability and transparency for funded projects. The program explicitly excludes Fire, Rescue, and Law Enforcement agencies, which are directed instead to separate Polaris grant programs tailored to their specific needs. No indication is provided regarding the number of grants awarded per cycle or overall funding availability for the program. However, the clear application structure, annual cap, and reporting requirements ensure an accessible and manageable process for small and mid-sized nonprofits and trail associations. Questions related to the application process or submission of required trail files should be directed to Chris Gamache via email at [email protected]. With over a decade of support to grassroots organizations, Polaris continues to solidify its role as a leader in promoting safe off-road recreation through the TRAILS GRANTS Program. The integration with RIDE COMMAND, coupled with a biannual funding structure and clear eligibility requirements, makes this grant a valuable opportunity for clubs and associations seeking to improve trail systems and ensure rider access. The next available application deadline is March 1, 2026, for the Spring cycle, followed by the Fall deadline on September 1, 2026.