Community Access to Electric Bicycles Grant Program

The Community Access to Electric Bicycles Grant Program, administered by the Colorado Energy Office (CEO), aims to support statewide deployment of electric bicycle (e-bike) programs with a strong emphasis on equity, sustainability, and air quality improvement. This initiative is funded through state appropriations and is specifically designed to enhance mobility options for income-qualified individuals across Colorado, while also addressing environmental concerns such as greenhouse gas emissions and urban air pollution. The CEO, a state-level entity committed to promoting energy efficiency and renewable transportation, is guiding this program to align with broader climate action and clean transportation goals. The grant program seeks to fund projects that either distribute e-bikes directly to qualified individuals through ownership models or establish shared e-bike fleets for public use. In the ownership model, awardees provide electric bicycles and related equipment to participants, possibly asking for a nominal fee contribution not exceeding $150. In contrast, bike share models operate through fleets accessible to multiple users via pick-up/drop-off systems or single-location checkouts. These models are intended to enhance transportation access, particularly in underserved areas, while avoiding duplication with existing initiatives. Eligible applicants include local governments, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations. This broad eligibility ensures that the program reaches a variety of communities, including those that may otherwise lack transportation infrastructure. To be considered, projects must demonstrate alignment with four primary goals: increasing e-bike access for low-income residents, avoiding competition with existing programs, showcasing geographic diversity across Colorado, and ensuring project viability beyond the funding period. Applicants must submit a minimum 10% cash match as part of their project budgets. This matching requirement encourages shared investment and reinforces the sustainability of each initiative. The application process requires all submissions to be sent via email to the CEO, specifically to the contact person, Sarah Thorne, by the stated deadline. Applications are due by 5:00 PM Mountain Time on January 9, 2026. The Q&A period for this grant closes at 5:00 PM MT on December 10, 2025. Responses to all submitted questions will be published by December 12, 2025. While no specific award notification timeline or performance period is given, the structure of the program and the detailed request for alignment with long-term goals suggest an expectation of measurable community impact beyond the immediate funding window. The grant appears to be offered on a recurring basis, with future cycles likely to follow a similar January deadline. Inquiries regarding the grant, including program specifics or application requirements, should be directed to Sarah Thorne via email. The CEO has also provided a webpage for updates and access to relevant documentation, including the RFA. Interested organizations are encouraged to monitor the program page for announcements and changes during the application window.

Full proposal applicants can receive up to 10 hours of technical support, including three meetings and one review. Feedback is verbal only.