Challenge Cost Share

Purpose and Scope:

• The Challenge Cost Share Program supports local projects that promote conservation and recreation, environmental stewardship, education, and engaging youth in the outdoors.
• Local project partners work with National Park Service (NPS) staff to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Applications are submitted by NPS staff in collaboration with project partners.
• This partnership challenge rewards those proposals that highlight long lasting benefits while developing new partnerships

Eligibility:

• National parks, trails, partnership wild and scenic rivers, and affiliated areas are eligible.
• Partners may be educational institutions, private for-profit entities, or not-for-profit organizations.
• Project must have the endorsement of the NPS, as well as assurance from the local partner(s) that the project’s budget is viable.
• $25,000 is the maximum Challenge Cost Share project support.
• Project should be completed within the fiscal year.

Project applications are accepted between May 2, 2016 and July 1, 2016 for Fiscal Year 2017.

Funding and Match:

The program requires equal matching share. Cash, goods, or services from non-federal sources can be considered as a cost share.
The maximum Challenge Cost Share project support is $25,000.
If selected our national partner, Outdoor Foundation, forms an agreement and provides project funds directly to the local partner. Applications are submitted by NPS staff in collaboration with project partners.