February 6, 2025 Funding available: Apply now for outdoor participation and inclusivity grants
The It’s Great Out There Coalition is now accepting applications for its outdoor grants program. Non-profits across Europe can apply for up to €5,000 to fund outdoor activities that foster community engagement. Applications close on 28 February.
The It’s Great Out There Coalition has opened applications for the latest round of its grants programme. Backed by the support of coalition members, grassroots non-profit organisations across Europe can submit bids for #itsgreatoutthere grants of up to €5,000, with the potential for additional support in kind. The grants aim to fund outdoor activities by new participants that foster community engagement. Applications will be open until 28 February.
Supporting outdoor access since 2017
Launched in 2017 by the It’s Great Out There Coalition (IGOT), #itsgreatoutthere grants are awarded to help non-profit initiatives introduce young people to outdoor activities, especially those from disadvantaged or more diverse backgrounds. Every organisation that is supported by an #itsgreatoutthere grant follows IGOT’s Outdoor Activity Days (OAD) model, which is aligned to the latest World Health Organization guidelines on physical activity.
By the end of 2024, the coalition had supported almost 60 initiatives through the grants programme, directly involving almost 9,000 individuals. In 2024 alone, IGOT supported nine projects, benefiting 760 people, facilitating 1,295 outdoor activity days, and committing a total of €36,950.
Project selection and application process
Once applications close after 28 February, all #itsgreatoutthere grant submissions will undergo a comprehensive evaluation. Coalition members will then have the opportunity to view a shortlist and endorse projects that they deem most deserving. Details of the successful applicants will be announced during March.
In the past, members of the coalition have often provided extra support to grant-funded projects by supplying kit for participants and sometimes additional finance. This maximises the number of OAD that can be delivered, getting yet more people active in the outdoors.
Aspiring applicants can engage in the process on the IGOT website and read the full grants guide. IGOT has produced a special “call for projects” information sheet. The coalition is encouraging individuals and companies to get in touch if they have a project that they think could qualify for a grant and to share information through their own networks, encouraging other organisations to consider applying for an #itsgreatoutthere grant.
Growing impact through grassroots support
Annette Monheim, communications manager at the It’s Great Out There Coalition, comments:
“Every time a grant recipient […] sends us feedback from a project that has been supported by an #itsgreatoutthere grant, we’re reminded of the hugely positive impact that this kind of grassroots support makes. We’re really grateful for the ongoing backing of coalition members that is allowing us to embark on another round of grant giving, which will lead directly to more young people getting active in the outdoors for the first time.”
For more information, visit www.itsgreatoutthere.com.
About the It’s Great Out There Coalition (IGOT)
It’s Great Out There Coalition is a not-for-profit collaboration launched by the outdoor industry in 2017. Its mission is to “Get Europe Active Outdoors” by motivating, activating, and advocating for responsible outdoor access. IGOT works with organizations and grassroots initiatives to promote outdoor enjoyment for all, contributing to the overall #itsgreatoutthere campaign.
Photo: EOCA/Associação de Promoção do Brincar
