The Community Based Grant from The Encantado Foundation is a competitive funding opportunity designed to support initiatives in Central and Northern New Mexico that advance STEM education and career pathways. These grants aim to increase access, raise awareness, and expand opportunities for community-based STEM engagement. This cycle applies to projects beginning on or after June 15, 2025, and concluding by October 15, 2025.

The Foundation offers grants of up to $5,000 for individual organizations and one collaborative grant of up to $10,000 for two partnering charitable organizations. Funding may be used to support operations, programs/projects, or special events aligned with the Foundation’s mission. Organizations are required to submit a nomination form, which includes questions about project use, evaluation methods, mission alignment, and a measurable outcomes sample.

Nominees must either hold 501(c)(3) status or be under fiscal sponsorship. K-12 schools are eligible but must apply in partnership with a charitable organization that can act as both fiscal and program partner. All nominated projects must demonstrate a clear link to STEM initiatives and provide measurable impacts on their community. Required documentation includes the organization’s mission statement, evaluation plan sample, and a narrative on how funds will be used.

For collaborative grant nominations, additional documentation such as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), a shared budget, and a partnership narrative are required. Each partnering organization may submit only one nomination per cycle and must schedule a consultation with the Foundation prior to submission.

Applicants are encouraged to attend virtual information sessions, which provide guidance on funding trends, the nomination form, and a Q&A opportunity. Questions may be directed to info@theencantadofoundation.org, and nominations must be submitted online. Supporting materials such as sample evaluation tools, partnership documentation, and organizational social media links can also be submitted.