The Environment Foundation, Aspen Skiing Company's employee-run nonprofit charity, is now accepting grant applications for projects that improve or protect the Roaring Fork Valley environment. The application deadline for the Spring 2010 grant cycle is March 1, 2010 at 4:30. The foundation supports environmental education and research; responsible stewardship of natural resources; protection of mountain ecosystems; and outdoor recreation.

The Environment Foundation is unique in the ski industry: employee contributions are matched by the Aspen Skiing Company Family Fund and the Aspen Community Foundation. A board of directors comprised of Aspen Skiing Company employees governs the foundation and decides which projects to fund. More than 1,700 employees—a record number of participants— contribute to the foundation annually.

Eligible recipients may be private or nonprofit organizations, government agencies or individuals. The board of directors evaluates all grant applications first on compliance with the eligibility requirements, then on set selection criteria. The board suggests that maximum grant requests not exceed $15,000. Grant requests for less than $8,000 are more likely to be funded.

Applicants can request an electronic grant application, eligibility guidelines or more information from Matthew Hamilton. Completed applications should be emailed to Matthew.