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Ignited by FUSE Mini-Grant Program
Overview & Purpose

The Ignited by FUSE Mini-Grant Program is designed to support creative and community-driven ideas that contribute to Ridgway’s unique culture, history, and economic vitality. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, student, or someone with an idea that sparks energy in our town, this grant is here to help bring your vision to life!

Grants range from $200 to $1,000 and are awarded twice per year. A total of $6,000 in funding is available for 2025, making this a competitive process.

Granting Timeline

Grant Period 1:
  • Submission Opens: April  1
  • Submission Deadline: April 30  
  • Awards Announced: June 1 

Grant Period 2:
  • Submission Opens: June 1 
  • Submission Deadline: June 30 
  • Awards Announced: August 1 

All Projects must be completed by October 15, 2025. 
Examples of Past Grantees
What Can This Grant Fund?
The FUSE Mini-Grant is meant to provide seed funding for creative, innovative, and impactful projects that can be completed within a few months. Here are some examples of what the grant can support, but other ideas welcome! 

✅ Public art installations, pop-up events, or creative workshops
✅ Local business initiatives that foster creativity, vitality and community engagement
✅ Student-led projects that make a difference
✅ Cultural events, theater or storytelling projects that celebrate Ridgway’s history

Funding Restrictions:

❌ General operating expenses
❌ Debt repayment
❌ Political campaigns or lobbying
❌ Religious programming
❌ Endowment funds


Who Can Apply?
  • Anyone who lives or works in the 81432 zip code
  • Artists, entrepreneurs, students, small businesses, and organizations with an idea that contributes to Ridgway’s creative economy and community vitality
  • Only one application per person, business, or organization per year.
  • If you've received FUSE funds before, we might prioritize other projects this time to make sure the support is shared widely.

Note: If you are awarded Ignited by FUSE funds, you may be ineligible for the Town of Ridgway's Community Grant Program in the fall.
How Are Grants Selected?
Once the application deadline passes, the FUSE Grants Subcommittee will review all applications. Funding decisions will be based on:

  • Community Impact: How does this project contribute to Ridgway’s creative, cultural, or economic vitality?
  • Creativity & Innovation: Is this a fresh and exciting idea?
  • Feasibility & Readiness: Is there a clear and realistic plan?
  • Inclusion & Engagement: Does this project invite broad community participation?

Funding recommendations will be made by the FUSE committee, and final awards will be announced by June 1 (Grant Period 1) and August 1 (Grant Period 2).
How Do You Get Paid?
Payments are reimbursement-based, meaning you’ll need to submit receipts before getting funds.

If covering costs upfront is a challenge, we’re happy to have a conversation to find the right approach, including the possibility of a partial upfront payment.

Tax Info: Grantees are responsible for any tax obligations related to the grant. A 1099 may be issued if required by IRS rules. For nonprofits, proof of 501(c)(3) status is required.
Sharing Your Impact
We want to celebrate your work! To receive reimbursement grantees must turn in:

  • A summary of how funds were used
  • Receipts for purchases
  • At least two photos of the project in action

We also encourage you to share your project’s impact with the community in a way that feels authentic to you. Some fun ideas:

  • A photo slideshow at a FUSE Happy Hour
  • A studio exhibit or interactive showcase
  • A performance, food tasting, or hands-on workshop

Any other creative format that highlights the impact of your grant!


How Do You Apply?
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Let’s Make It Happen!
We’re excited to see your ideas and help you bring them to life. Have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Tera Wick at twick@town.ridgway.co.us.or 970-626-5738 ext 215.

Ready to apply? Submit your responses by the deadline, and let’s get started!

 2025 Spring Grantees will Each Receive $500 to support their projects:


Portraits of Ridgway – Emma Kalff
This July and August, local artist Emma Kalff will fill the Decker Room with 30 oil paintings of beloved Ridgway scenes—each painted from life with deep affection for the town. Her exhibit will include two First Friday openings, an artist talk, a history talk co-hosted with Joan Chismire, and a closing celebration. A portion of sales will benefit the Ridgway History Museum.

Ridgway Love Free Little Art Gallery – Deidra & Orion Krois
Artist Deidra Krois and her son Orion are building a Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG) to spread joy, creativity, and community connection. Installed on Clinton Street, the FLAG will feature small artworks and supplies available for free exchange. Deidra says, “FLAGs democratize art, vitalize neighborhoods, and spark creativity through the kindness of strangers.”

Youth Scholarships for Frozen – Minerva West
Minerva West, Ouray County’s youth theater group, will use FUSE funding to offer scholarships for this summer’s production of *Frozen*. The funds will ensure that financial barriers don’t keep local kids from joining the cast. As Artistic Director Kathleen O'Mara shared, 'We are nurturing the future youth community with respect, creativity, and shared pride.'

Ridgway Farmers Market 25th Anniversary Celebration – Ridgway Farmers Market
To mark 25 years of local flavor and community gathering, the Ridgway Farmers Market will host a festive celebration on July 11. Planned activities include live music, a commemorative poster contest, and family-friendly entertainment. As Jessica shared, the event will honor the market's role in building Ridgway’s community and local economy—while creating fun for all ages.

Fête de la Musique 2025 – Weehawken Creative Arts / The Sherbino
On June 29, downtown Ridgway will come alive with music at the Fête de la Musique—a free, all-day celebration featuring dozens of musicians across Cora, Clinton, and Town Park. With styles ranging from jazz and funk to classical and indie rock, this event brings people together for a uniquely joyful summer kickoff. The Fête is co-hosted by Weehawken and the Sherbino, with community and business support.

1K Rally Through the Alley – The Sherbino / Weehawken
One of Ridgway’s most beloved quirky traditions returns October 5! The 1K Rally is a costume-filled 'fun run' through Ridgway’s back alleys, featuring absurd aid stations and a high-energy finish. With live music, face painting, inflatables, and free registration for kids, the event celebrates Ridgway’s fun-loving, imaginative spirit.


2024 Projects Awarded 
  1. Fete de la Musique 
  2. Ouray County Pride 
  3. Public Art for Ridgway Colorado (PARC) 
  4. Ridgway Film Club 
  5.  Kylee Firlit Creative 
  6. Wishing Star Pottery 

2023 Projects Awarded:
  1. Ouray County Pride Event 
  2. Fete de la Musique
  3. Ridgway Film Club
  4. Minerva West Performing Arts
  5. Cora Street Awning, Weehawken Arts


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