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A bear in a tree, in Littleton, Colorado. Photo by Jason Clay.

A bear in a tree, in Littleton, Colorado. Photo by Jason Clay.

About the Grants

Human Bear Conflict Reduction Grants

The purpose of the Human-Bear Conflict Reduction Community Grant Program is to provide local Colorado communities with financial resources to support efforts to reduce human-bear conflicts. Additionally, the grant program will serve to foster innovative solutions to human-bear conflict that can be replicated in other parts of the state and bolster efforts of all communities in Colorado to prevent conflict. This effort will be in tandem with all other tools available to protect human health and safety including bear management, CPW bear conflict response, and the game damage program.

Currently Open: This grant is currently accepting applications, with a deadline of May 30, 2025.

39

Awarded Grants

$2.9M

in Total Awards

$995k

Awarded in 2024

GRANT CYCLE 2025

How to Apply

Applications are available and are due by May 30th, 2025 at 5 p.m. For questions on applying please contact Travis Long [email protected].  Application assistance is available.

    Step 1: Check Eligibility

    Eligible Projects

    The goal of the Human-Bear Conflict Reduction Community Grant Program is to reduce conflicts between local communities and black bears. Characteristics of projects that help meet this goal include:

    • The project reduces the availability of attractants to black bears in communities experiencing human-bear conflict OR the project disincentivizes black bears from entering areas of high conflict (i.e. hazing).
    • The project has local community support or a detailed plan to build local support.
    • The project is a cost-effective investment that has the potential to last beyond the funding time frame.
    • The project utilizes proven techniques for preventing conflict or will explore an innovation with a promise to prevent conflict.

    Ineligible Projects/Project Elements 

    Projects should primarily benefit Colorado communities and have local support, including the support of local CPW staff. Projects without local support or that have a more general benefit may not be eligible for funding.

    Stand alone research will not be eligible for funding. However applicants are encouraged to include plans for project evaluation which may include data collection and analysis.

    Funds may not be used for lobbying.

    Private businesses may apply for funding but need to demonstrate community value and meet other criteria for eligible projects. Grant money may not be used to directly generate revenue or profit.

    Step 2: Compile Your Application

    Compile Your Application

    The main sections in the application form request information on:

    • The current issues/problems the project seeks to address.
    • The project proposal.
    • Explanation of planned work.
    • Project budget.
    • Expected outcomes of the project.
    • Community support for your project.

    Additional information that will be part of the application includes the project sponsor and contacts, the project site, descriptions and drawings of the proposed improvements, landownership information, and any letters of support from financial and local community partners. 

    The application should strive to make the strongest and clearest case possible for why the proposed project is a good one, the benefits that will result, and the project's well-thought-out design. 

    Step 3: Application Review

    Application Evaluation, Selection, and Notification Process

    Applications will be evaluated for how well they meet the goal of the grant program and how well the applicant can meet the requirements outlined under funding considerations. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of the process no later than July 31st, 2025. Successful applicants will have until December 31, 2026 to utilize the funding with an option to extend until December, 2027.

    Matching Funds

    Matching funds are not required but are a substantial way to demonstrate community support. In-kind match can count as a match. General volunteer labor is valued at $20/hour. More specialized donated services can be valued at comparable market rates. Supplies and equipment donated to the project can be valued at comparable market rates.

    Funding Considerations

    The following will be taken into consideration when evaluating applications:

    • Addresses a recognized human-bear conflict situation.
    • Likelihood of reduced human-bear conflict as a result of the proposed project.
    • Applicant’s track record of working in the community and/or on bear conflict.
    • The proposal fills a local/regional need.
    • Ability to complete the planned project.
    • Geographic distribution of funding.
    • Cost-effectiveness.
    • Support of local government and local CPW staff.

    Grant Deadlines

    Application Opens

    March 14th, 2025

    Applications Due

    Applications are due to the program coordinator.

    May 30th, 2025

    5:00 p.m. MT.

    Applications Reviewed

    Applications are reviewed by regional CPW personnel, which may include discussions with applicants and suggested improvements to project proposals.

    May 30th, 2025 to June 20th, 2025

    Review Panel Recommendations

    The review panel meets at CPW headquarters in Denver and creates a list of funding recommendations for the CPW Director.

    Late June, 2025

    Successful Applicants Notified

    The CPW Directors funding decision is sent out with letters to successful applicants with conditional project approval.

    Late July, 2025

    Approved Projects Finalized

    The final project design and financing is secured, and the scope of work is defined. Purchase orders or state contracts are put in place. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will review the project, and any National Environmental Policy Act compliance issues and external compliance issues must be completed.

    August 2025 to March 2026

    Contact

    Please email any questions about human bear conflict reduction grants to: