Aiken Audubon Mini-Grants

The Aiken Audubon Mini-Grants program, initiated by the Aiken Audubon Society, aims to promote bird conservation in the Pikes Peak region. Grants ranging from $100 to $500 are available for individuals and community organizations that align with the society's mission. The program continues the legacy of ornithological study established by pioneers like Charles Aiken. With the goal of supporting at least four mini-grants per year, it fosters local engagement in wildlife conservation efforts.

Ornithology in the Pikes Peak region is an intriguing field of study for enthusiastic amateurs and dedicated professionals alike. Its rich history owes much of its current vibrant state to pioneering individuals like Charles Aiken, William Sclater, and W.W. Arnold, whose efforts continue to impact and guide future generations. Aiken’s singular efforts were so essential to the study of birdkind and wildlife in Colorado that his name graces the Pikes Peak Region’s chapter of the National Audubon Society. His connections with Sclater and Arnold helped build a sturdy foundation for birding that perpetuates to this day. Aiken’s work would become the nucleus of ornithological study in Colorado Springs.
The first iteration of the Aiken Audubon Society, the Aiken Ornithological Society, formed in 1950, and was active in continuing the work of naturalists like Aiken, Dr. William W. Arnold, and William Sclater in Colorado Springs. Becoming a chapter of the National Audubon Society in May 1971, it is fitting that the Aiken Chapter was adopted by the national Audubon Society in the centenary of Charles Aiken’s family relocating to Colorado.
The Pikes Peak Region’s Aiken Audubon Society (AAS) carries on the tradition of educating others as its forbearers did, offering field trips, newsletters, awarding research and conservation grants, and advocating for conservation efforts of natural habitats.
Aiken Audubon has two ongoing grant programs, one of which is the Aiken Audubon Mini Grants. For the mini-grants, we consider applications from local community organizations and individuals that directly further and implement AAS's mission.
Awards are in the amount of $100-$500. Funds will be awarded as available, with a goal to support a minimum of 4 mini-grants per calendar year.

Eligibility

Mini-grants are open to individuals and organizations that support our mission.We do not require formal 501(c)(3) status.Requestor should be ready to initiate and complete the project within a reasonable amount of time upon grant award.