Poudre River Improvement Fund

The Poudre River Improvement Fund is not currently accepting applications for funding.
Grant opportunities and timelines will be posted here when available. 

Introduction to the Poudre River Improvement Fund

  • The Poudre River Improvement Fund (PRIF) is a long-term funding initiative created through a legal settlement between the Northern Integrated Supply Project Water Activity Enterprise (NISP Enterprise) and Save the Poudre. 
  • The fund was established to invest in projects that enhance the health, ecology, and recreational vitality of the Cache la Poudre River. 
  • NoCo Foundation convenes and supports the PRIF Committee as a neutral entity to ensure the funds are stewarded for public benefit and distributed in accordance with the settlement agreement. 

Looking for the Poudre River Fund?

The Poudre River Fund, spearheaded by the Mighty Arrow Family Foundation, pools charitable donations to protect and strengthen the Poudre River watershed. If that’s what you’re looking for, click here.

Funding Commitment & Schedule

  • The settlement agreement provides a total commitment of $100 million from the NISP Enterprise to support river improvements over time.
  • Payments are made in phases tied to construction milestones and an annual distribution schedule.

Anticipated Payment Schedule

This timeline is based on current estimates and may be adjusted as project details and schedules continue to take shape.

Overview of PRIF Grantmaking

Geographic Scope

Eligible projects must be located within the reach of the Cache la Poudre River from above the Munroe Gravity Canal diversion to its confluence with the South Platte River.

What the PRIF Supports

  • The PRIF supports projects led by nonprofit and for-profit organizations within the eligible geographic reach. 
  • For-profit entities are subject to additional requirements under federal expenditure responsibility guidelines. View additional requirements here:

Eligible Project Categories

  • Aquatic and riparian habitat restoration 
  • Water quality improvements 
  • Enhanced river flows 
  • Boating & recreation opportunities 

*Projects already required by NISP's Mitigation and Enhancement Plan are not eligible for PRIF funding

Decision-Making Process

  • The PRIF Committee consists of:
    • Six voting members:
      • Three appointed by Save the Poudre
      • Three appointed by the NISP Enterprise
    • One non-voting representative from NoCo Foundation
  • The Committee meets at least twice annually to review proposals and make funding recommendations
  • The NoCo Foundation Board of Trustees holds final approval authority

*Important Note: Committee members are not public contacts for the fund 

Grantmaking

  • When funding cycles are open, this page will include: 
    • Application timelines 
    • Eligibility requirements 
    • Submission instructions 

Stay Informed

Share your contact info to be notified when grant opportunities are posted

Questions 

Please direct inquiries to grants@nocofoundation.org