We are currently accepting Arts Program grant applications until March 11th.

Onion Foundation Logo

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

Eliminate Barriers to the Outdoors

We're proud to support nonprofit organizations working to dismantle the barriers to the outdoors that too many people face. Below, find information on determining grant eligibility, preparing your application, and more.

2026 GRANT CYCLE

January 7, 2026 to February 12, 2026

Notification in May

Types of Grants
Preparing to Apply
Characteristics of High-Quality Programs
More About the Equitable Outdoor Access Strategy
Two men in short sleeved t-shirts sitting in wheelchairs with their backs to us looking across a beautiful view with trees, lakes, and mountains in the distance.
(Right) Photo credit: Woodlawn Museum
(Left) Photo credit: Adaptive Outdoor Education Center
A group of people in a wooded area standing in front of a presenter listening to him speak. The perspective of the photo makes us feel like we are one of the members of the group.
(Left) Photo credit: Adaptive Outdoor Education Center
(Right) Photo credit: Woodlawn Museum
 
Types of Grants
GENERAL OPERATING GRANTS
General operating grants offer unrestricted funds for your organization. If all of your organization’s activities align with one or multiple Environment Program strategies, you may request general operating support. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000 per 12-month period. Organizations may apply for up to two years of funding.
PROJECT SUPPORT GRANTS
Project support grants offer funding for specific activities or programs. If your organization’s work extends beyond our grantmaking strategies, you should request project support. All fiscally sponsored grants are project grants. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000 per 12-month period. Organizations may apply for up to two years of funding.
Please note that for Project grants, the Onion Foundation is unlikely to fund more than 50% of a project. We request to see a comprehensive project budget that includes all the expenses required to complete the project successfully. In your project budget, please include an income section to show other sources of funding and grants that will be allocated to this project.
 
Preparing To Apply
Review Program Details
Explore the Environment Program’s strategies to determine which area your organization best aligns with. Review eligibility details and familiarize yourself with the Onion Foundation’s mission and values.
Speak With a Program Officer
Reach out to Rosalind Erwin, Environment Program Officer, to learn more about grant opportunities and ensure alignment with the program’s key strategies.
Apply During an Application Period
During an open application period, a link will be available here. Please note that returning applicants may request a link to a custom application, prefilled with organizational information. Organizations working in more than one of our strategy areas should choose one area in which to apply.
 
Characteristics of high-quality programs include:
Program staff or partners with expertise to lead the intended participants in an outdoor setting
People of color and/or people living with disabilities are represented in the development and implementation of the work
Durable, relevant partnerships that support the participation of people of color and/or people living with disabilities in outdoor settings
Thoughtful integration of the initiative into the community through schools, social services, and other networks, thereby providing participants continuing outdoor opportunities and complementary support
A focus on providing participants direct, meaningful, and repeated experiences with nature and the outdoors (i.e., not simply lectures or reading)
Intentional program and communication design to make initiatives welcoming and inclusive and to create a sense of belonging
Reduction of barriers to participation (such as cost, transportation, or lack of accommodations)
A program design that engenders curiosity about and appreciation for nature
Contact Us
Rosalind Erwin
To inquire about this opportunity, contact:
Rosalind Erwin
SHE/HER/HERS
Environment Program Officer
CONTACT ROSALIND
Copy to clipboard
Schedule a call with Rosalind
Copy to clipboard
Sally Streuver
For all other questions, contact:
Sally Streuver
SHE/HER/HERS
Grants & Office Administrator
CONTACT SALLY
Copy to clipboard