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Community Impact through Grantmaking

Pikes Peak Community Foundation (PPCF) offers several Community Funds dedicated to supporting the important work of front-line nonprofit organizations in the Pikes Peak Region (El Paso and Teller Counties). We invite submissions that align with resident priorities our vision of a thriving, resilient, sustainable Pikes Peak Region with a vibrant quality of life for all. Projects that maximize impact measured both qualitatively and quantitively.

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What We're Looking For

  • Innovative, scalable solutions to systemic issues of importance to the residents of the Pikes Peak Region.
  • Projects that maximize impact measured both qualitatively and quantitively. 

Grant Considerations

  • Applicants must be a registered U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charity or a government agency.
  • We will not consider proposals from individuals, private foundations, internationally-based organizations, or for-profit entities.
  • We do not grant to individuals, private foundations, or for-profit entities.
  • Sponsorship opportunities should be addressed to Kevin Farley at kfarley@ppcf.org.

Pikes Peak Fund for a Thriving Community

The Pikes Peak Fund for a Thriving Community funds emerging needs and opportunities in our region. It fully aligns with our vision of a thriving, resilient, sustainable community with a vibrant quality of life for all. It provides everyone, regardless of their giving capacity, the opportunity to engage in high-impact philanthropy, addressing our community’s greatest needs and opportunities.

Previous grantees include:

  • Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
  • Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience
  • Peak Education
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Pikes Peak Fund for the Arts

Art and culture are essential to the human experience and contribute significantly to overall quality of life. Since inception, the Pikes Peak Fund for the Arts has awarded more than half a million dollars to enhance arts and culture in the Pikes Peak Region. Pooling resources from multiple funding sources allows for investment in projects with significant impact that advance a diverse arts and culture environment creating a vibrant quality of life for all our residents.

Previous grantees include:

  • Colorado Springs Philharmonic
  • Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region
  • Rocky Mountain Highway
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Pikes Peak Fund for the Outdoors

near and around Pikes Peak creates a love for the natural beauty of our region. The purpose of the Pikes Peak Fund for the Outdoors is to advance growth, stewardship, preservation, and responsible use of outdoor spaces in the Pikes Peak Region.

Previous grantees include:

  • El Paso County Parks
  • Palmer Land Conservancy
  • Trust for Public Land
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Other Funds

Pikes Peak Community Foundation offers the following funds for organizations seeking funding. These were created by our generous donors focusing on specific areas of our community. Please note any special restrictions, timelines, and other information prior to submitting your application.

Margarete Balke Fund

The Margarete Balke Fund was established in 2018 through a generous bequest from the estate of Margarete Balke. This endowed fund provides lasting support for legally blind and/or hearing-impaired children in the Colorado Springs area. Through Margarete’s vision and generosity, the fund continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children facing sensory challenges, helping them access the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Previous grantees include:

  • Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind
  • Fine Arts Center at Colorado College
  • Peak Parent Center
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Gerald Erikson Fund

History: The Erikson Trust was established in 2001 in honor of Gerald Erikson who cared deeply about the challenges facing people experiencing blindness and visual impairment. The focus of this funding is specific to programs and projects that serve people experiencing blindness and visual impairment in Colorado.

Grant Parameters: Organizations must be a qualified 501(c)3 public charity serving the state of Colorado. Strong priority will be given to organizations serving the Pikes Peak Region.

What we will fund:

  • Programs or project specific funding only;
  • Single-year funding opportunities

Previous grantees include:

  • Anchor Center for Blind Children
  • Audio Information Network of Colorado
  • Pikes Peak Library District Foundation
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Edson Foundation

The Edson Foundation believes diligence and resolve should be rewarded. We provide support that breaks down barriers to achievement. We celebrate curiosity and learning; and we value courage and tenacity that propels people forward. By removing obstacles that stand in the way of success, The Edson Foundation comes alongside the determined to overcome any challenge, any hurdle.

Educational programs/initiatives that: promote empowerment, encourage innovation, help in personal development, provide mentoring, and encourage creativity

Nonprofit agencies that encourage: personal growth and development skills, pro-social behaviors, job skills and placement, pursuit of education.

The Edson Foundation’s Board review Applications once per year. To be considered in this year's grant cycle, LOIs must be submitted by May 30, 2025. Application invitations will be sent out at the end of June, based on the submitted LOI. Applications must be submitted by September 5, 2025. Grant awards will be made in October with grants sent out at the beginning of November. 

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    Donor Legacy Field of Interest Funds

    In addition to our broader initiatives, we proudly steward several funds designed with specific missions established by the founding donor.

    • Cheryl Kezziah Animal Support Fund: Supporting domesticated animals in Colorado.
    • Linda Schultheis Crawford Fund: Supporting projects/organizations helping young women explore their place in the world through the outdoors in Latin America.
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