This program is modeled after the American Alpine club's mountain fellowship grant.  We envision providing several annual grants of between $250-$1000 to aspiring young adventurers, based within our region, to financially help with the pursuit of an ambitious adventure.  Awards will be based on the resources available, the merit of the proposed activities, the chance of success (as determined by the applicants previous experience - although applications from 'green' adventurers will certainly be considered!), and the field of other applicants. Proposals demonstrating thrift in planning that maximize the value of the available gifts will be given preference, as will those requiring greater self-reliance (i.e. a self supported canoe trip down the Pigeon river would be more likely to recieve funding than a backpacking trip through the Scottish Highlands).

Applications are now being accepted.  To apply please submit a 1 page summary of your proposed adventure including major goals, timeline, trip cost, amount requested, use of funds, and any other information that you feel is relevant. Better start planning your really big adventure now.....

A few notes:  The award is intended for adventurers that are 18 or under at the time of application. It is not designed to fully fund any proposed endeavor.  Only adventures that pose some significant challenge involving outdoor and non-motorized methods of transportation will be considered.  'Single summit' type proposals that outline a very clear and limited goal (ie a winter thru-hike of the Superior Hiking trail,  a self supported paddling descent of the Pigeon river, or a two day attempt on Gannett peak) are more likely to be awarded than less well defined adventures. For a concrete example of the type of trip we're looking, check out 1lifetour, from the summer of 2011.