The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation (VCTF) is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund through August 14, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
According to information posted on the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation’s website, with over $90,000 already awarded since its creation in 2021, the fund continues to support recreational programs that promote equity and accessibility along the 52-mile Virginia Capital Trail, which connects communities from Richmond to Williamsburg.
“We were impressed with the diversity of the projects being requested and are thrilled to be able to support twelve organizations this year,” said Cat Anthony, executive director of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation.
“I am grateful to Dominion Energy, Bon Secours, our board of directors, and our Trail supporters for helping provide quality outdoor experiences for our underserved communities,” Cat added.
The Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund was launched with the mission of making outdoor recreation more equitable, particularly for communities that have historically lacked access.
The fund prioritizes programs serving BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color), tribes, low-income neighborhoods, and individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities.
Eligible applicants include certified nonprofit organizations as well as state, local, regional, tribal, educational, or government entities. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, with a total of $20,000 in funding available this cycle.
Grants can be used for both program and operating expenses. All funded initiatives must engage with the Virginia Capital Trail and align with the goal of expanding equitable outdoor opportunities.
Grantees will be required to submit a final report by December 8, 2026, and must attend an in-person award ceremony to receive funds.
Organizations that do not meet reporting requirements may be ineligible for future funding.
Applicants will be notified of their status in early October. Additional information, including FAQ and grant guidelines, can be found through the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. For questions, contact [email protected].
This grant program is significant to the outdoor recreation industry because it not only funds vital community programming but also supports broader efforts to make outdoor spaces—like multi-use trails—accessible and inclusive for all.