The Telluride Green Grants program, funded by the Town of Telluride through the Telluride Energy Mitigation Program (TEMP) and administered by EcoAction Partners, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the Telluride community through various environmental projects. Grants between $500 and $40,000 are awarded to support local and regional initiatives that deliver measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and align with the town’s climate objectives, including a 70% emissions reduction by 2030 and a 94% reduction by 2040, based on 2010 levels. The program prioritizes projects that improve energy and water efficiency, utilize renewable energy, and support sustainable community practices.

To apply, prospective applicants must first submit an "Intent to Apply" form, available starting July 19, 2024, and receive approval before accessing the full application. Approved applicants can then submit a formal application by November 15, 2024, with funding decisions expected by December 13, 2024. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2025, ensuring timely impact and measurable greenhouse gas reductions. Eligible applicants include private businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and individuals operating or residing within Telluride.

Applications are assessed on multiple criteria, including environmental benefit (e.g., GHG emissions reduction using EPA protocols), cost-effectiveness, public visibility, community impact, and technological innovation. Projects that provide educational benefits or promote community engagement, particularly those helping low-income or vulnerable populations, are encouraged. Additionally, proposals leveraging external funds or private investments are favored to enhance cost-effectiveness and maximize impact. Projects must be tangible and deliverable within a 12-month timeline and are expected to use proven or suitable technologies tailored to the Telluride region.

Grant funds may only be applied to costs directly associated with the project, excluding general administrative expenses unless deemed necessary for project completion. Following project implementation, recipients must submit a project report, including a thank-you letter for publication in a local newspaper. Grant funds are disbursed upon project completion, report submission, and the publishing of the thank-you note.

Telluride’s Green Grant Review Committee, composed of the Energy Action Coordinator, an Ecology Commission member, and a local sustainability expert, evaluates applications and determines final funding allocations. Confidentiality is respected upon request for pre-award documentation, though all grant awards will be made public. For more information, applicants can visit the Town of Telluride or EcoAction Partners websites.