Larimer OEM Community Mitigation Grant Program

The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has established the Community Mitigation Grant Program to support localized hazard mitigation projects in response to the county’s extensive history of federally-declared disasters. Since 1965, Larimer County has experienced the highest number of such disasters in Colorado. Recognizing the disproportionate impact of upfront costs as a barrier to effective community resilience work, the program was launched in 2022 to empower local communities to reduce risks and enhance disaster preparedness. This grant aims to support projects that mitigate risks associated with hazards such as wildfires and floods. The 2025 cycle prioritizes grassroots organizations and projects that foster community collaboration and resilience. Funding is restricted to project execution only—planning costs, salaries, staff capacity, and most road work are ineligible. However, certain roadside activities like thinning and slash pile chipping are permissible. The program encourages activities that involve multiple stakeholders, demonstrate strong community engagement, and promote long-term mitigation capacity. Eligible applicants include small community groups, local nonprofit organizations, and charitable foundations operating within Larimer County. Preference is given to smaller grassroots initiatives over larger nonprofits. Each applicant may only submit one proposal per cycle and may only receive funding for two projects within a three-year period. Projects must clearly demonstrate the potential for community-wide benefits and the ability to build momentum for ongoing resilience efforts. Applications for the 2025 grant cycle opened on January 13, 2025, and closed on March 9, 2025. Award notices were issued by May 1, 2025. The performance period ends on November 3, 2025, with a final project report and expense documentation due by 11:59 PM on November 2, 2025. Grant funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, though upfront disbursement may be considered in exceptional cases with sufficient justification. All recipients must hold a public meeting to present their project to the community and coordinate with OEM prior to and during project implementation. Projects will be scored based on a 15-point system assessing risk reduction impact and degree of community involvement. A strong proposal will showcase a clear strategy for resilience, demonstrate broad community support, and outline long-term plans to sustain mitigation efforts. OEM also expects recipients to submit documentation of all expenditures and project activities, including photographic evidence and proof of community engagement. Changes to the original project scope must be approved in writing prior to execution. The grant program is expected to continue on an annual basis.