The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission today announced the launch of its Community Grants Program, a new initiative designed to support localized, high-impact projects as Colorado prepares to commemorate its 150th anniversary of statehood alongside the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
The Community Grants Program expands on the Commission’s existing Aligned Giving Program, shifting focus toward smaller, community-based projects that can be activated quickly and reflect the unique stories, histories, and creativity of communities across Colorado.
“The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission has worked hard to create multiple ways for Coloradans to engage in Colorado’s 150th birthday. I’m excited to see how many community partners across the state have proposed exhibits, events, and historic projects through the Aligned Giving and Community Grants programs to energize our communities to commemorate this historic milestone. Investing in our communities boosts our economies, increases collaboration, and creates a lasting impact that will be felt for generations to come,” said Governor Jared Polis.
Through its first round of community grantmaking, the Commission has identified 46 highly aligned projects submitted between May and November 2025 to receive funding. These initial awards total $345,000 and support projects intended to be activated by summer 2026.
While the Aligned Giving Program continues to serve as the Commission’s primary vehicle for large-scale legacy and capital projects, the Community Grants Program is designed to support quicker, localized initiatives that foster participation, storytelling, and community engagement during the commemoration.
“These grants allow us to directly invest in the creativity and leadership already happening in communities across Colorado,” said Nick Lopez, President & CEO of the Latin American Educational Foundation and a member of the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission. “The Community Grants Program reflects our belief that meaningful commemoration happens at the local level. By supporting smaller, highly aligned projects, we’re helping communities bring their own history, culture, and vision into this once-in-a-generation moment.”
The Community Grants Program awards up to $7,500 per project, supported by the Commission’s ongoing fundraising, resource development, and philanthropic partners. Grant recipients are selected based on strong alignment with the Commission’s goals, themes, and values, ensuring meaningful impact rather than a first-come, first-served approach.
In addition to the initial awards, the Commission has announced a second wave of community grants, with an additional $200,000 available to support new projects.
- Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Timeline: Applicants will be notified by March 30, 2026
- Eligibility: All interest forms submitted after November 2025 will be considered.
Projects funded through both grant cycles are designed to activate communities across Colorado and complement the Commission’s thirteen signature initiatives leading up to and throughout 2026. For more information about the Community Grants Program or other signature initiatives, visit the official website at Am250CO150.org.
About the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commemoration
The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission is leading Colorado’s commemoration of 150 years of statehood and 250 years of American independence in 2026. Established by Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado General Assembly, the Commission brings together leaders from across the state to guide this historic milestone. Through its campaign, “The View From Here,” the Commission invites all Coloradans to reflect on our shared history and imagine the future, recognizing Colorado’s unique legacy as the only state founded on the nation’s 100th birthday in 1876. Working alongside state agencies, regional Advisory Panel members, and local communities, the Commission will showcase signature initiatives, educational programs, exhibits, and community-led events to inspire engagement statewide. For more information and ways to get involved, visit Am250CO150.org.