Grant Update FAQ

Questions & Answers

Thank you for your patience as we took necessary time to reassess our processes and other programmatic details to determine how best to meet needs and continue our robust support of circularity across Colorado. Here are some answers to common questions.

Question: How did Impact Grants change? 

  • Answer: Impact Grants are for projects between $50,000 and $500,000 - that is double the previous award ceiling. There are three application windows: January-March; April-June; and July-September. Each application will be reviewed and scored on its own. These cycles will allow a more structured timeline and expectations. After the application window closes, there will be approximately one month for review, scoring, and deliberation. Selected projects will be presented to the board roughly two months after the window closes.

Question: Did Mini Grants change as part of these updates? 

  • Answer: There were slight changes to Mini Grant Guidelines to clarify certain information and add more robust details. The updated guidelines were posted to the C3 website on January 22, 2026. Mini Grant applications submitted prior to January 22, 2026 will be held to the previously published guidelines. Mini Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Question: Did Capacity Building Grants change as part of these updates?  

  • Answer: Capacity Building Grants are for projects more than $500,000 and remain by invitation only. There were slight changes to Capacity Building Grant Guidelines to clarify certain information and add more robust details. Capacity Building Grants are still by invitation only; please complete an inquiry form if you are interested in pursuing this grant tier.

Question: If I submit an Impact Grant application at the beginning of the application window, when can I expect a response/decision?

  • Answer: Please refer to the Impact Grant guidelines for additional details. Each applicant will be notified of a decision within approximately two weeks after the board recommendation date. If an applicant’s project is being recommended for funding to the board, applicants will be required to be in attendance at the board meeting to answer questions. 

Application Window Board Recommendation Estimated Project Start Date
January 22-March 31, 2026 May 14, 2026 August 13, 2026
April 1-June 30, 2026 August 13, 2026 November 13, 2026
July 1-September 30, 2026 November 13, 2026 February 11, 2027

Question: Does it make a difference to apply at the beginning or the end of the application window?

  • Answer: No, it does not make a difference to apply at the beginning or the end of an application window. All applications will be evaluated on their own merits. It is encouraged that you submit applications early to avoid technical difficulties. 

Question: Will my previously submitted application be affected?

  • Answer: No. All completed Impact Grant applications received before Oct. 17, 2025, have been reviewed and assessed. In the unlikely event you have not heard from us, please reach out to c3.grantmanagement@state.co.us for an update. 

Question: Is there any impact to previously approved applications or grant funding already awarded?

  • Answer: No. Projects and contracts that are in process are not impacted by changes.

Question: Does this impact STEPS applications or projects?

  • Answer: No. There are no changes to the Strategic Technical Expertise for the Public Sector (STEPS) program. Local governments, tribes, and public K-12 school districts may contact C3 through the STEPS inquiry form.