Mountain Equipment Coop – Access & Activity

Grants support programs, initiatives and infrastructure projects that encourage backcountry, urban and near-urban outdoor recreation.

Evaluation Criteria:  
* The project focuses on one or more self-propelled activities supported by MEC (such as cycling, hiking, trail-running, climbing and paddling)
    * Programs / Initiatives encourage and enable participation in outdoor activities and provide opportunities for people (including youth and diverse groups) to try new activities and/or develop skills
    * Infrastructure projects ensure ongoing, public access to recreational areas through planning, construction and maintenance of facilities (e.g. trails, skills-parks, backcountry shelters)
    * The project minimizes environmental impact and promotes safe, responsible use of the outdoors
    * Community, environmental and/or recreational groups are involved in determining the need for the project
    * The project takes full advantage of opportunities to involve volunteers
    * The ratio of administration costs to overall budget is low
    * A follow-up plan describing the steps required to ensure the long-term viability of the project is provided