The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Colorado Threatened and Endangered Species Program invites applications for projects that align with its mission of conserving and recovering over 330 federally-listed and more than 2,700 Bureau-sensitive species. This funding opportunity supports activities that protect biodiversity, mitigate species extinction, enhance resilience to climate change, and promote the conservation of at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The program emphasizes partnerships for on-the-ground conservation and proactive management of critical species and habitats.

The total program funding is $300,000, distributed among up to three awards. Individual awards range between $50,000 and $200,000. This initiative funds a variety of projects, including habitat conservation, species monitoring, data collection for better ecological management, public education, and enhancement of programmatic efficiencies under the Endangered Species Act. Eligible projects must demonstrate benefits to the public and address national or regional conservation priorities, potentially crossing state boundaries.

Applicants eligible for this funding include state and local governments, public and private higher education institutions, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, tribal organizations, and nonprofit organizations. For-profit entities and individuals are ineligible. No cost-sharing or matching funds are required. Projects must align with applicable legislative frameworks, including the Endangered Species Act and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act.

Applications require registration with SAM.gov and Grants.gov, where prospective applicants must submit a project narrative detailing the need, objectives, technical approach, and anticipated outcomes. Budgets must adhere to federal guidelines, and indirect costs are capped depending on the applicant’s agreement with the federal government. Proposals should include relevant forms, biographical sketches of key personnel, and detailed project plans. Specific application requirements ensure alignment with environmental compliance and conservation goals.

Key deadlines include a closing date of January 31, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. ET. Project funding is expected to commence on August 1, 2025, with a maximum duration of five years, ending by September 30, 2030. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their projects with BLM program leads to ensure eligibility and alignment with program goals. Further guidance can be obtained from the designated contacts at BLM.

Funded projects will be subject to standard reporting and compliance requirements, including financial reports, performance metrics, and adherence to geospatial data standards. Award recipients are also expected to promote public awareness and education on species conservation while integrating community involvement, particularly from underserved populations. This funding opportunity supports innovative, collaborative approaches to advancing species recovery and ecological resilience on BLM-managed lands.