The Maryland Outdoor Equity Mini-Grant Program is issued by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Office of Outdoor Recreation. The program aims to support equitable access to outdoor recreation opportunities for historically underserved communities across the state. The funder seeks to address barriers such as transportation, cost, lack of exposure, and inclusivity challenges by funding community-based projects that promote long-term engagement with outdoor spaces.
This program provides one-time awards between $2,500 and $7,500 to projects that foster outdoor recreation access, environmental education, community capacity building, and connections between outdoor experiences and health benefits. Eligible uses of funds include program staffing, materials, transportation, outreach, gear, and event costs directly related to project goals. Awardees must complete their projects by September 30, 2026, and submit a final report by October 15, 2026.
Eligibility is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, Tribal entities, school districts, government agencies, and for-profit organizations with missions aligned with outdoor equity. Applicants must be based in Maryland and conduct projects that serve Maryland communities and take place within the state. No matching funds are required, although leveraging additional resources is encouraged. Approximately five awards are expected to be distributed.
Applications must include organization details, a description of the population served, planned activities and goals, an explanation of how the project advances equity in outdoor recreation, a community engagement approach, a budget with narrative, a timeline of key milestones, and an evaluation plan. Optional letters of support or collaboration can also be submitted.
Applications are currently open and must be submitted by June 30, 2025. There are no pre-application deadlines or Q&A sessions mentioned. Award notifications will follow after the application period closes. For questions or assistance, applicants can contact the Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation via email at outdoorrec.dnr@maryland.gov or by phone at (410) 260-8000.
