NOW ACCEPTINg 2026-2027 Grant Applications
Applications will remain open from now until August 21st, 2026.
2026-27 Grant Applicant Guidelines
The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation (VCTF) exists to protect, promote, and enhance the Virginia Capital Trail and engage the communities around it. The Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund was established in 2021 with the goal of increasing equitable access to the Capital Trail. All Virginians deserve access to safe, protected bike-and-pedestrian infrastructure and outdoor recreation.
Our funding goals are outlined as:
Increase access and equity to low-income neighborhoods through outdoor recreational programs that provide outdoor experiences and utilize the Virginia Capital Trail.
Provide recreational and fitness programming for under-served communities with an emphasis on BIPOC (black, Indigenous and people of color), tribes, and people with physical or intellectual disabilities.
This grant program will fund programs or projects that serve BIPOC, tribes, low-income neighborhoods, people with physical or intellectual disabilities, or other marginalized communities while utilizing the Capital Trail. Funding will be awarded to outdoor recreation programs that work toward equity and access in outdoor recreation involving the Capital Trail.
Who Can Apply? Any certified nonprofit organization or state, local, regional, tribal, educational or government entity. For-profit companies and individuals are not eligible.
How Much Funding Is Available? Grants will be given a minimum of $1,000 to a maximum of $5,000. Thank you to Dominion Energy for funding this opportunity!
What Will Be Funded? Program and operating expenditures.
How To Apply? Apply through our online application by August 21st, 2026.
Are There Final Report Obligations? Grantees must complete a final report by December 8th 2027. If a final report is not received, funding may be asked to be returned to the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. In order to reapply for the grant, the final report must be submitted.
Questions? Email steph@virginiacapitaltrail.org.
Capital Trail Outdoor equity FUnd awards over $116K
Established in 2021, the Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund has now awarded over $116,000 for recreational programs that build equitable outdoor access utilizing the Virginia Capital Trail, a 52-mile recreational resource connecting communities from Richmond to Williamsburg.
“We are inspired by the diversity of projects submitted and excited to support twelve organizations this year,” says Cyndee Dragoo, Director of Development & Communications of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. “We are grateful to Dominion Energy, Bon Secours, our board of directors, and our Trail supporters for helping us create meaningful outdoor experiences that bring everyone in our communities together.”
Fostering Community and Enhancing Outdoor Experiences
A Connected Commitment
With the support of Dominion Energy and other generous sponsors, the Virginia Capital Trail advances outdoor access in multiple ways, from the Outdoor Equity Fund’s community‑focused grants to signature events like the annual Cap2Cap bike ride. Together, these efforts celebrate the Trail, help protect and enhance it, and connect thousands of people to this treasured resource each month. Each initiative reflects an investment in our region, united by a shared commitment to outdoor equity, stewardship, and a healthier, more connected community. We couldn’t be more grateful for the support that makes it all possible!
