IMPACT Fund

The Impact Fund helps bring powerful, hands‑on learning experiences to K–12 students—experiences that inspire them to think like entrepreneurs and give back like philanthropists. We partner with schools and nonprofits that help students create, problem‑solve, and make a real difference in their communities.

Impact Fund Requirements

In order to be considered for a grant through the Impact Fund, the request should meet the following criteria: 

• We fund programs that make entrepreneurship or philanthropy a meaningful part of the student experience, using hands‑on projects like student‑run businesses or giving initiatives.
  • The primary purpose of the program must be student entrepreneurship and/or philanthropy.
• We support 501(c)(3) nonprofits and schools that have a clear plan to carry their program forward beyond our funding.
• The program serves K-12 students located in either Larimer or Weld counties of Colorado.

Grant Cycles and Details

The Impact Fund has two application deadlines annually.

2026 Spring and Fall Grant Cycles Deadlines are as follows:

• Spring 2026 Grant Cycle
  • Pre-application deadline: March 20, 2026
  • Main application deadline: April 20, 2026
• Fall 2026 Grant Cycle
  • Pre-application deadline: September 30, 2026
  • Main application deadline: October 30, 2026

• Grant Awards typically range between $1,000 and $25,000 depending on program reach and scope. If your pre-application submission meets fund criteria, we will discuss/suggest a suitable request amount.

Funding Requirements & Limitations

• An organization may receive a grant from the Impact Fund, once per calendar year.
• Organizations may receive funding for two consecutive years, and then must take a one year break before applying for additional funding.
• All grant recognition should be attributed to The OtterCares Foundation. Approved logos and brand guidelines will be provided via email, upon request.

Please be advised that OtterCares does not currently fund for the following:  

• Capital campaigns
• Travel
• Political campaigns or legislative lobbying efforts
• General wages or salaries
  • Exception: we may fund salaries for time-limited, transformative roles for one grant cycle.

• Building and construction projects
• Reproductive choice advocacy groups
• Single-day events
  • Exception: we may fund single-day events if they are part of a larger student entrepreneurship and/or philanthropy program with intentional programmatic work for students before/after the event.

Submit a Pre-Application