SANTA FEAfter the New Mexico Tourism Department (NMTD) supported a record 53 communities through the Clean and Beautiful Grant Program in FY22, the department is prepared to continue supporting waste reduction and beautification projects of New Mexico communities in FY23.

NMTD is officially accepting applications for the Clean and Beautiful Grant Program FY23 cycle now until April 15, 2022. All New Mexico municipal, county, and Tribal governments in good standing with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department are eligible for the program and encouraged to apply.

“To see such strong participation in this program from community partners this past fiscal year is a good indicator to us that this program is making a big difference for New Mexico,” Tourism Secretary Jen Paul Schroer said. “It’s more important now than ever to do our part to inspire and empower communities to reduce waste and maintain beautiful lands for current and future generations.”

Applicants that receive grant funding to implement projects will receive technical assistance on project implementation and access to a professional network of Clean and Beautiful affiliates. Projects and initiatives that aim to end littering, reduce waste, beautify communities, empower youth, and increase program capacity are eligible for funding through this program.

NMTD issued $789,800 in grant funding to 53 New Mexico communities in FY22. Tribal governments were awarded $61,225 through the program in FY22, representing a 308 percent increase from the previous fiscal year. In FY21, NMTD issued $778,700 in grant funding to 37 communities throughout New Mexico.

Those who are interested in applying for the Clean and Beautiful Grant Program can learn more about the application process can watch a recording of the grant application process here. More information and guidelines about the grant program are also available on the NMTD website.