The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for its second year of outdoor equity grants, which fund programs that expand access to outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and boating in underserved communities. Eligible organizations, including nonprofits, schools, and government agencies, can apply through June 30, 2025, with funding provided by the Great Maryland Outdoors Act of 2022.
Per the news release: “The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now taking applications for the second year of outdoor equity grants, which support outdoor recreation activities in Maryland’s underserved communities with funding for organizations around the state.
The grants fund projects and programs that increase access to camping, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities, specifically those that help Marylanders overcome social, geographic, cultural, physical, and economic barriers to the outdoors.
“The positive bond crafted through experiences in nature is the foundation for environmental stewardship,” said DNR Office of Outdoor Recreation Director Sandi Olek. “Through increased experiences outdoors, individuals can contribute to the growing statewide and national outdoor recreation economy.”
Eligible recipients are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, tribal entities, school districts, government agencies, and for-profit organizations with a mission aligned with outdoor equity are encouraged to apply.
Funding is provided by the Great Maryland Outdoors Act of 2022. The program was piloted in 2024 in partnership with Together Outdoors, a private-sector coalition focused on ensuring equity in outdoor recreation. The program distributed $27,000 in grants in its first year. Those grants included funding for camping gear for youth in Baltimore City and Spanish-speaking families, as well as resources for paddling excursions for veterans.
Questions about the program and how to apply can be addressed to [email protected]. Applications are accepted through June 30, 2025.”