Outdoor Fund Scout Grants Program

The Outdoor Fund Scout Grants Program is an initiative led by The Outdoor Fund, an organization affiliated with Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. The purpose of this grant is to support scout troops in the United States and Canada that are affiliated with nationally recognized scouting organizations. Through this program, The Outdoor Fund provides support for gear and equipment that enhances outdoor programming, helping to foster long-term troop development and outdoor engagement. This grant is specifically designed to benefit scouting groups affiliated with one of the following recognized organizations: Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), Girl Scouts of America, American Heritage Girls, Trail Life, Scouts Canada, and Girl Guides of Canada. Only troops that are affiliated with these organizations are eligible to apply, making this a tightly focused and exclusive grant opportunity. The funding available under this program is capped at $2,500 and may only be used to acquire merchandise. The grant is not intended for cash support or general expenses. The merchandise requested must be directly tied to supporting the troop’s outdoor programs, and the gear acquired through the grant is expected to remain in use with the troop for multiple years. Projects that do not fit this requirement or request consumable or giveaway items are not eligible. The application process for this grant follows a rolling submission format, allowing eligible applicants to apply throughout the year without a fixed deadline. However, based on current program status information, the selection process for the current cycle has concluded. The next round of applications is expected to open in January 2026. Interested applicants are advised to revisit the official program page at that time for updated information and application access. Ineligible uses of funds include fundraising events, banquets, items intended for participant giveaways, general operating support, capital campaigns, endowments, construction or building expenses, projects still in the design or development phase, and vehicle requests such as ATVs, UTVs, or boats. These restrictions ensure that the funding is used exclusively for direct program-related needs that have a long-term benefit to the scouting organization. Contact details for program staff are not provided within the program materials. Applicants seeking further information are encouraged to monitor the grant webpage for updates and revisit the site ahead of the next application cycle in January 2026.