America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission launches Community Grants Program for local projects statewide

The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission launched a Community Grants Program to fund small, local commemorative projects across Colorado; 46 projects received $345,000 in the first round and a second wave with $200,000 is available.

The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission has launched a Community Grants Program to support smaller, local commemorative projects as Colorado approaches its 150th anniversary alongside the nation’s 250th in 2026. The program builds on the Commission’s Aligned Giving Program and focuses on projects that can be activated quickly and reflect community histories and creativity. Commission leaders, including Governor Jared Polis and members such as Nick Lopez, described the grants as a way to engage communities statewide. The program is intended to complement the Commission’s thirteen signature initiatives leading up to and during 2026. Key details: - The first round identified 46 projects submitted between May and November 2025, with initial awards totaling $345,000. - Award amounts are up to $7,500 per project, supported by the Commission’s fundraising and philanthropic partners. - Selection is based on alignment with the Commission’s goals, themes, and values rather than a first-come, first-served basis. - The Commission has announced a second wave of community grants with an additional $200,000 available to support new projects. Summary: The grants are intended to activate communities through storytelling, exhibits, events, and local projects that tie into Colorado’s 150th and the nation’s 250th anniversaries. The Commission issued initial awards and has made additional funds available through a second grant wave to support further community-led commemorations.