For those of you involved in programs connecting youth to the outdoors and finding your vision reaches beyond your budget, you’re in luck. That is, if you can convince the application panel that what your organization is doing stands out amongst the other applications being submitted to get a piece of the $500,000 pie from The North Face 2015 Explorer Fund.
This grant-giving program is open for applications through April 17, 2015. To qualify, your organization needs to connect people to the outdoors in meaningful ways, ideally, with youth as the primary focus.
“For 2015, we are looking to identify programs that will provide experiences that nurture an enduring appreciation of the outdoors,” said Ann Krcik, Director of Outdoor Exploration, The North Face. “We want these programs to encourage people to explore and appreciate the outdoors in their favorite ways, whether that be hiking, skiing or camping – we want to be the catalyst.”
All grants are evaluated on the clarity of proposal, the projected impact and alignment to the spirit of adventure and exploration. Proposals that leverage collaboration and partnerships within communities are encouraged. The Explore Fund reviews grants by individual merits and as part of a balanced portfolio that includes such factors as geography, type of program funded, target audiences, and more.
To be considered for an Explore Fund grant, applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations or in a formal relationship with a qualified fiscal sponsor. All applicants must fully complete the online submission process and provide the required application information. Explore Fund grants are for one year and funding in a giving cycle does not guarantee future support.
As part of its mission to start a global movement of Outdoor Exploration, The North Face introduced the Explore Fund (www.explorefund.org) in 2010 and the program has since provided more than $1.5 million in grants to organizations committed to inspiring the next generation of outdoor explorers and conservationists.
For more information and to submit an application before April 17, 2015, please visit www.explorefund.org.
