The Fostering Collaboration Opportunity from the Colorado Springs Health Foundation (CSHF) provides support for collective efforts among organizations aiming to address complex community health challenges. CSHF is a private foundation dedicated to improving the health and well-being of people in the Pikes Peak region of Colorado. This funding opportunity emphasizes authentic collaboration, defined as a partnership involving multiple organizations and perspectives working jointly toward a common objective that would be unachievable alone.
This initiative is specifically intended to back new or ongoing collaborations that align with CSHF’s stated funding focus areas. It prioritizes proposals that demonstrate the need for a collaborative approach due to the complexity of the problem and that follow collective impact principles. These principles include a shared agenda, consistent measurement systems, mutually reinforcing activities, continuous communication, and backbone support organizations that coordinate efforts.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with no formal deadline. However, prior to submitting a proposal, prospective applicants are required to have a conversation with CSHF staff. This step is mandatory, and applications submitted without this discussion will not be considered. The application process is available online, and the funding period can extend for up to three years.
Eligible collaborations should clearly articulate how their purpose aligns with one of CSHF’s funding focus areas and must demonstrate a structured, strategic plan to address a significant health challenge. Competitive applications often feature diverse organizational participation, shared resource contributions (either cash or in-kind), evidence-based practices, and a potential for systemic or transformative change.
The Foundation encourages conversations with applicants to help determine fit and strengthen proposals. Contact is facilitated through the general email, info@cshf.net, or by phone at (719) 985-8989. Applicants can schedule discussions directly through CSHF’s online platform. Though specific evaluation criteria and application questions are not detailed, the foundation signals its preference for thoughtful, high-impact collaborations that can lead to measurable health improvements.
Overall, this opportunity reflects a deep commitment to systems-level thinking and strategic cooperation, and CSHF positions itself as a partner in fostering impactful, sustainable health improvements in the Colorado Springs region.
Stronger applications align with focus areas and use collective impact principles
