Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation Grant

The Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation (MSTPF) is a community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement and expansion of trail systems and park infrastructure across the Matanuska-Susitna (Mat-Su) Borough in Alaska. With over $2.35 million in grants awarded to date and 74 projects completed, MSTPF aims to create new outdoor recreational opportunities and improve existing ones to benefit Mat-Su residents. The Foundation works in collaboration with local organizations and entities that serve this region and hosts competitive grant rounds quarterly, depending on funding availability. MSTPF accepts applications from a wide array of legal entities that provide services or benefits to residents in the Mat-Su area and have a valid tax identification number (EIN). Eligible applicants include nonprofits, Alaska Native non-profit organizations, federally recognized tribes, government entities, community councils, religious organizations, and service organizations. For-profit entities, individuals, and politically affiliated groups are not eligible to apply. The foundation has a strong commitment to equity and does not fund projects from organizations that engage in discriminatory practices. Funding is available for a broad range of trail and park-related initiatives. Eligible projects may include the creation of new trails and parks, development or enhancement of trailheads and recreation sites, installation of playground and park amenities, and planning or surveying activities. However, MSTPF does not fund private trails or parks, projects on private land without legal easements, loans, endowments, fundraising events, reimbursements for completed projects or purchases, ongoing operations, or indirect costs. Grants are categorized by size, each with specific match requirements. Projects requesting $20,000 or less are not required to provide a match, though contributions are encouraged. For projects between $20,001 and $50,000, a minimum match of 3:1 is required, with at least half of that match in cash. Projects between $50,001 and $100,000 require a 2:1 match, with similar restrictions on in-kind contributions. In-kind volunteer hours are valued at $28.54 per hour, and contractors not affiliated with the applicant may donate services at their standard rates. The 2025 grant cycle includes two rounds. The first round opens on November 4, 2024, with applications due by January 2, 2025. Committee reviews begin January 6, with board approval scheduled for February 19 and award notifications during the week of February 25. The second round opens on June 2, 2025, with a submission deadline of July 30. Committee reviews will start August 4, and awards will be announced the week of September 22 following board approval on September 17. Interested applicants must use MSTPF’s online application portal, as paper or PDF submissions are no longer accepted. Questions regarding the grant process can be directed to the foundation staff via email at info@matsutrails.org or by phone at 907-746-8757. The foundation’s office is located at 642 S Alaska St, Suite 215. Sponsorship opportunities for events or programs are also available through separate applications.