DOTI's Office of Community & Business Engagement

Funding Amounts:

• Individuals may apply for up to $500 in project funding, to be distributed via gift card(s). Upon completion of the project and a project reflection form, Individuals will receive an additional, final payment of $75.

• Organizations or Businesses with a valid W-9 may apply for up to $1500 in project funding, to be distributed via check or ACH. Upon completion of the project and a project reflection form, Organizations/Businesses will receive an additional, final payment of $500.

The Micro-Grant cannot fund projects that:

• Are for an individual or business benefit only. (Examples: personal bikes, recreational fees for an individual).

• Are outside of City & County of Denver limits, unless they specifically serve those who live in Denver.

• Go against or lead to individuals failing to adhere to current laws or public health guidelines.

• Install any unpermitted furniture or infrastructure that would impede local traffic in the Right-of-Way.

• Include music or video/movie licensing.

Additional considerations:

• The Micro-Grant Program will only fund one project proposal per applicant in 2025.

• Preference will be given to projects that serve a high-need community or vulnerable and marginalized populations in alignment with the DOTI Equity Index Map.

• Micro-Grant recipients should expect to receive a 1099 for their Micro-Grant funds and should prepare their own receipts and taxes appropriately.

Phase I: Project Proposal

Step 1: Proposal (Eligibility Form and Application)

• Applicants will use a free Submittable account to fill out an Eligibility Form to ensure projects match with program guidelines and funding themes.
• Eligible applicants will automatically have access to fill out the Project Proposal Form in Submittable.
• After the project proposal is submitted, proposals will move through an Internal Review.

Step 2: Internal Review

• The Micro-Grant team reviews project proposals on an ongoing basis in the order they are received.
• Once alignment with the project is confirmed, applicants will be notified of their continuation to the Micro-Grant Project phase.
• Aligned projects will be assigned a Grant Officer to help deliver a successful project and meet project requirements.

Phase II: Micro-Grant Project

Step 3: Preparation

• Grantees will meet with Grant Officers for a phone call, video call or in-person meeting at least once during project preparation.
• Grantees will upload all outstanding contracting documents (W-9, proof of insurance, etc.) and complete consultation with their Grant Officer to receive project funding.
• Project funding is sent to Grantees via check or direct deposit for organizations, or gift card(s) for individuals.

Step 4: Implementation

• Grantee completes Micro-Grant project within 90 days of receiving their project funding.

Step 5: Reflection

• Grant Officer will send Grantee a post-project reflection in Submittable that must be returned within 2 weeks of project completion.
• After project reflection is complete, Grantee will receive final payment.

Project Requirements

We will work with eligible applicants to ensure your project meets these requirements.

• Proposal Preview – Individual (for reference only)
• Proposal Preview – Organization (for reference only)
• Reflection Preview – Individual (for reference only)
• Reflection Preview – Organization (for reference only)
• Community Streets permitting information
• Office of Special Events permitting information
• Denver Parks & Recreation permitting information
• Keep Denver Beautiful support for cleanup projects

To report an issue to the City of Denver, please use the Online Services Hub to submit a 311 Request using this link or use your mobile phone to text the word "hello" to 439311 (or HEY311).

General FAQs

What if I need assistance in a language other than English?
If you need non-English language interpretation/translation services, please Ask for Language Help.

When will the application be open?
Applications will open the second week of June 2025 and funding will be distributed on a rolling basis from late June 2025 until funds are fully spent in 2025.

Is there a deadline to apply?
There is no fixed deadline. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are fully spent.

How long will funding last?
In past years, funding has run out by late September. There is less funding available in 2025, so early application is advised.

Who is eligible to apply?
Any individual, organization, or business serving those who live within the City & County of Denver is eligible to apply for the Micro-Grant.

What types of projects are eligible?
Our 2025 DOTI/CALC Micro-Grant Program can fund projects that align closely with Safe Routes to School, Vision Zero, and DOTI Vibrant Denver goals. Discover more in the Funding Themes & Examples section.

Will the funding themes change every year?
The project themes and what is eligible is based on the funding sources we can identify year over year, so project themes may change. This program is housed within the Department of Transportation & Infrastructure so it is likely that any future program funding themes will continue to align with active transportation goals.

How much funding can I request?

• Individuals may apply for up to $500 in project funding, to be distributed via gift card(s). Upon completion of the project and the project reflection form, Individuals will receive an additional, final payment of $75.

• Organizations or Businesses with a valid W-9 may apply for up to $1500 in project funding, to be distributed via check or ACH. Upon completion of the project and the project reflection form, Organizations/Businesses will receive an additional, final payment of $500.

Can I apply this year if I applied last year?
Yes, you can apply in 2025, even if you applied in previous years. Past recipients of funding are also eligible to apply for different projects.

How many times can I apply for a DOTI/CALC Micro-Grant?
Only one project proposal can be funded per individual or organization in 2025, due to limited funding.

Proposal & Internal Review FAQs

What is the platform for applying in 2025?
The program is using Submittable replacing previously used Microsoft Forms.

Do I need an account to use Submittable?
Yes, a free Submittable account is needed to submit your application. Learn more about Submittable with this Meet Submittable for Applicants video or access Help for Applicants.

Do I have to fill out the application all at once?
No. Submittable allows you to save a draft of your work if you would like to finish filling out the form later.

Can I prepare an application with another collaborator?
Yes. Submittable allows you to collaborate on an application with others. To invite someone to help support you in completing an application select Manage Collaborators after you begin your application. Learn more here: Inviting Collaborators on Submissions and Additional Forms.

Can two organizations apply for the same event/program?
Yes, if each organization is covering a distinct and separate part of the event, project, or program. Keep in mind that only one project proposal per individual or organization can be funded in 2025. Another option is to work together within Submittable to submit a single project proposal.

Will there be a scoring rubric in 2025?
No! There is no scoring rubric this year. Applications will mainly be reviewed on eligibility and feasibility, and coaching will be provided differently so that all eligible projects are supported toward successful completion.

How will my application be reviewed?
First, our Program Administrator will check that your proposal matches all basic levels of eligibility for the program and has an aligned funding theme. Based on the funding theme, a second check will identify any steps your project will still need to complete to be fully feasible, such as necessary permits or insurance. At this point the project will be shared with a Grant Officer to work with you, coach you, provide technical assistance in completing requirements, and ensure your project's success. Review Program Phases for more information. 

How long does it take to hear back after I apply?
We strive to notify you of where you are in the process within 2 weeks of submitting your project proposal, possibly longer depending on the quantity of applications received. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis in the order they are received.

How far in advance should I apply?
We recommend applying for the Micro-Grant at least 30 days before your event or program and 60 days if permits are required.

Project Preparation & Implementation FAQs

Is insurance required for Micro-Grant projects?
Yes, every project requires insurance. This will include projects by individual applicants. Our Grant Officers will work to identify solutions with grantees who do not already have insurance on hand.

Can grant funds be used to cover insurance?
Yes, and keep in mind you may need to secure coverage before funding is sent.

What do I need for the Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
For Worker's Compensation Insurance, Grantee shall maintain the coverage as required by statute and shall maintain Employer's Liability insurance with limits of $100,000 for each bodily injury occurrence claim, $100,000 for each bodily injury caused by disease claim, and $500,000 aggregate for all bodily injuries caused by disease claims. Grantee shall maintain Commercial General Liability coverage with limits for $1,000,000 for each occurrence. The City and County of Denver should be listed as Additional Insured. You won't be using personal or homeowner's insurance for coverage.

Learn more about the insurance requirements(PDF, 76KB)
View sample of a Certificate of Insurance(PDF, 290KB)
View sample of a Worker's Comp Waiver(PDF, 117KB)
View Department of Labor's Worker's Comp Questions Pamphlet(PDF, 855KB)

Can insurance be shared between organizations and individuals?
Possibly, but it depends on how the application is filed and the structure of the insurance policy. Consult your insurance agent. The Project Applicant would need to be listed as Additional Insured on the certificate of insurance.

Do I need a permit for my project?
If your project contains any of the below items, you must apply for a permit.

• Permanent or temporary art installations (Wall or street/sidewalk murals, sculptures, etc.)
• Infrastructure (Benches, shade structures, etc.)
• Large community events (Block parties, park events, etc.)
• Requires a Road Closure
• Use of park or some other public spaces

Is the funding given up-front or as a reimbursement?
The project funding is given after all necessary risk and contract materials have been provided and the Applicant has consulted with their Grant Officer to move forward. Funding can be used for any associated project costs; there are no receipts required. The final payment is only provided after the project and the project reflection form have been completed.

For organizations, will payments be made by check or direct deposit?
Either. If you prefer direct deposit, contact communitystreets@denvergov.org or a Community Connector/Grant Officer you've previously worked with to get set up with ACH payments from the City & County of Denver. Note: This is a separate process from the DOTI/CALC Micro-Grant process and may take several weeks to complete.

How long does it take to receive funds?
No funds can be shared until contracting requirements are met, like risk assessment and proof of insurance gathered. Once requirements are met, your Grant Officer will make sure the process for payment to start your project moves forward. The length of time it takes to get to you will depend on your applicant type (individual vs. organization), and for organizations, whether you are already set up for direct deposit or not. Unless you are set up with e-gift cards as an individual or direct deposit as an organization, it may take up to two weeks for funds to arrive by mail.

Project Completion & Reflection FAQs

How long do I have to complete a project?
Projects must be completed within 90 days of your first payment unless otherwise approved by your Grant Officer.

What is the post-project reflection, and what will I need to prepare for it?
Post-project reflections help the Micro-Grant team see the outcomes of the project completed. You should be prepared to track how many people were engaged, ways you measured your projects success, 2-3 anecdotes or quotes from people who interacted with the project, 1-3 photos from the project, and a general summary of how the project went.

Wearing a seatbelt is the best way for all adults to stay safe in a car, and wearing it properly during pregnancy is the best way to protect the both of you. To make sure that you and your little one arrive safely, always:

• Place the lap belt portion across the top of your thighs and hip bones, NOT over your belly
• Place the shoulder belt between your breasts and to the side of your belly
• Tilt the steering wheel up and away from your belly
• Sit back as far as you comfortably can from the steering wheel

Learn more at these helpful sites:

• Buckle Up For Life
• Hudson Center for Prenatal Vehicle Safety

See Statistics

• A child is at 17 times more risk of becoming a traffic fatality before they are born than when they are in a car seat
• Proper seat belt use can reduce adverse fetal outcomes by 84%
• 25% of pregnant drivers wear their seat belt correctly
• Only 20% of pregnant drivers receive in-person education about how to wear their seat belt correctly
• In-person seat belt education makes a driver four times more likely to wear their seat belt correctly

All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing car seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat's manufacturer.

Why It Matters

The vertebrae of young children are not developed enough to protect the spinal cord during a crash. When forward facing, in a frontal collision, the weight of the head combined with the immature skeleton, can cause the spinal cord to stretch up to 2 inches, while serious injury can occur at just 1/4 of an inch stretch. This often results in internal decapitation and causes paralysis or death.

When rear facing, in a frontal crash, the car seat decelerates the child's body by spreading the crash forces over the back of the seat, where there is greatest surface area to absorb the forces. When forward facing, the forces are concentrated over the harness to hard points (shoulder and pelvis) of the skeletal structure.

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Correct Fit

1. The crotch buckle is as close to the child as possible without them sitting on it
2. The hip straps are snug on the hips
3. The straps between the crotch buckle and chest clip are flat and straight
4. The chest clip is at their armpit level
5. You cannot pinch slack at the shoulders
6. The should straps wrap behind the child's shoulders like a backpack, not sitting above the shoulder

What about their legs?

Legs are actually safer in a rear facing position. Children are very flexible and it is not uncomfortable for them to sit with bent legs. We actually see more injuries forward facing because their legs can hit the seat in front of them.

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Correct Install

1. Attach with the seat belt OR the lower anchors, not both (exception: Nuna Pipa), ensuring that the seat belt (if used) follows the correct path
2. Refer to the line, bubble, or ball on the seat label for guidance to ensure the seat is leveled correctly
3. Confirm the seat moves less than 1 inch from side to side, front to back when applying pressure to the belt path that connects the seat to the car.

• Find a fit station here
• Find a car seat technician here

Convertible car seats can be used rear facing or forward facing.

Combination car seats can be used rear facing, forward facing, or as a booster seat.

Most models of convertible and combination car seats can accommodate children up to 65 pounds and some up to 70-90 pounds when used forward facing. These seats do not have detachable bases, users must switch the seat between vehicles or have one for each vehicle. All children who have outgrown their rear-facing weight or height limit should use a forward-facing car seat with a harness up to the highest weight or height allowed by the manufacturer.

Correct Fit

1. The crotch buckle is as close to the child as possible without them sitting on it
2. The hip straps are snug on the hips
3. The straps between the crotch buckle and chest clip are flat and straight
4. The chest clip is at their armpit level
5. You cannot pinch slack at the shoulders
6. The shoulder straps go above their shoulders, towards their ears, not wrapping behind their shoulders like a backpack

Correct Install

1. Attach with the seat belt OR the lower anchors, not both ensuring that the seat belt (if used) follows the correct path. Ensure you are using the correct installation method (most lower anchors have a weight limit)
2. Refer to the line, bubble, or ball on the seat label for guidance to ensure the seat is leveled correctly
3. Confirm the seat moves less than 1 inch from side to side, front to back when applying pressure to the belt path that connects the seat to the car

• Find a fit station here
• Find a car seat technician here

Traditional seat belts are properly sized to protect adults in the event of an impact. Children often slouch or scoot forward because their knees don't reach the edge of the seat to bend properly, pushing the lap belt up on their belly and increasing their risk of injury. Additionally, children's bones and muscles aren't typically developed enough to withstand a crash in a safety belt alone. So, once your child has outgrown a seat with harnesses, it's time to move to a belt-positioning booster seat.

Backless Booster Seats are booster seats that do not have a back on them, they're only what the child sits on. These are great for older children.

High-back Booster Seats are booster seats that have a back on them (often detachable). These are great for children just coming out of a forward facing 5-point harness or for children with lower tone.

Correct Fit

1. Their bum is all the way back in the seat
2. The hip straps are snug on the hips, but not up on the stomach
3. The strap across the torso is flat and straight
4. There is less than 1 inch of slack at the shoulder
5. The shoulder strap goes above their shoulder, towards their ear, not wrapping behind their shoulder like a backpack
6. The shoulder strap is across the collarbone, not up on their neck
7. The shoulder AND lap belt are under the "arm" of the booster seat

Correct Install

1. Always install in the back seat. All children under age 13 should ride in the back seat whenever possible.
2. Ensure the booster seat is facing forward
3. Ensure there is a lap and shoulder belt to use

Traditional seat belts are made to fit adults. To maximize your protection, place the shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck, never behind you or under an arm. The lap belt portion goes low and snug across your hips, not your stomach. Your pelvis and rib cage are better able to withstand a crash than other parts of your body.

The thing that our kids need most to be safe and thrive is US, and we model safe behavior by wearing seat belts correctly every trip. Every time.

Children are fit for an adult seat belt without a booster when they meet ALL of these:

• Their knees bend comfortably at the vehicle seat edge with their feet flat on the floor
• Their back lies flat against the vehicle seat (bum all the way back in the seat)
• The shoulder belt lies between their neck and shoulder
• Their lap belt lies across the top of their thighs
• They can remain comfortably seated upright for the duration of all trips

Correct Fit

A heavy jacket or coat requires the seat belt to be loosened slightly so that it no longer conforms to the body. No coats or snow suits for anyone in a seat belt or 5-point harness.

More winter car seat safety

A German study finds damage at speeds as little as 10 MPH when wearing heavy coats

For more tips and tricks, please visit:

The Car Seat Lady: Houdini Button Down Shirt Trick
CDOT - Car Seats Colorado

Baby Trend
1-800-328-7363
Mon - Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pacific
www.babytrend.com/contact_us.html
Manuals:
https://babytrend.com/pages/products-manuals

Britax
1-888-427-4829
Mon - Thurs, 9:00 a.m. - 5:15 p.m. Eastern
Fri, 9:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Eastern
https://us.britax.com/support/contact-us
Manuals:
https://us.britax.com/support/instructional-videos-and-user-manuals

BubbleBum
1-800-969-6586
9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
info@bubblebum.co
https://www.bubblebum.co/us/contact-bubblebum-us/
Resources:
https://bubblebum.com/pages/bubblebum-car-seat-resources

Century Baby
1-844-385-0249
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
https://www.centurybaby.com/support/contact-us
Manuals:
https://www.centurybaby.com/explore-car-seats.html (click your car seat to download the manual - link on each product page)

Chicco
1-877-424-4226
Mon - Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Closed Sat & Sun
https://www.chiccousa.com/contactus
Manuals:
https://www.chiccousa.com/product-manuals/

Clek
1-866-656-2462
Mon - Fri, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Closed Sat, Sun and Canadian holidays
https://clekinc.com/pages/contact-us
Manuals:
https://support.clekinc.com/hc/en-us

Combi
1-800-992-6624
Mon - Thurs, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Fri, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. EST
customerservice@combiusa.com

Cosco: see Dorel
1-800-544-1108
Mon - Thurs, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST
Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST
https://consumercare.coscokids.com/s/contactsupport
Manuals:
https://consumercare.coscokids.com/s/topic/0TO5G000000PrhrWAC/car-seats

Cybex
1-877-242-5676
https://www.cybex-online.com/en/us/service-hub/contact/contact_us.html
Manuals:
https://www.cybex-online.com/en/us/safety-center-us.html (click your car seat to download the manual - link on each product page)

Diono
1-855-463-4666
7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Pacific
https://us.diono.com/contact-us/
Manuals:
https://diono.com/product-manuals

Dorel (Cosco, Maxi Cosi, Safety 1st)
1-800-544-1108
https://safety1st.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new?ticket_form_id=75009

Evenflo (Urbini):
1-855-334-2229
https://www.evenflo.com/pages.contact-us
Manuals:
https://www.evenflo.com/pages/instruction-manuals

Graco
1-800-345-4109
Mon - Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
https://www.gracobaby.com/en-US/contactus
Manuals:
https://www.gracobaby.com/product-instructions.html

Harmony
1-877-306-1001
Mon - Fri, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
https://www.harmonyjuvenile.com/us_en/contacts
Manuals:
http://www.harmonyjuvenile.com/us_en/instruction_manuals

Kids Embrace
Mon - Fri, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Eastern
https://www.kidsembrace.com/pages/contact-us
Manuals:
https://www.kidsembrace.com/pages/product-manuals

mifold
https://www.mifold.com/contact/
Manuals:
https://mifold.com/pages/instructions-manual (mifold)
https://mifold.com/pages/instruction-videos-and-manuals (hifold)

Maxi-Cosi
1-800-544-1108
Mon - Thurs, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST
Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST
https://consumercare.maxicosi.com/s/contactsupport?language=en_US
Manuals:
https://consumercare.maxicosi.com/s/topic/0To5G000000PriaWAC/car-seats?language=en_US

Nuna
1-855-686-2872
Mon - Fri, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Eastern
https://www.nuna.eu/usa/contact-us
Manuals:
https://nunababy.com/usa/car-seats (click your car seat to download the manual - link on each product page)

Peg Perego
1-800-671-1701
Mon - Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
https://us.pegperego.com/store/pegus/en_US/contact-information
https://us.pegperego.com/store/pegus/en_US/car-seats/c/nav_car_seats_us (click your car seat to download the manual - link on each product page)

Ride Safer
1-847-233-0365
cs@safetrafficsystem.com
https:ridesafer.net/contact-us/
Manuals:
https://ridesafer.net/manual-downloads/

Safety 1st: see Dorel
1-800-544-1108
Mon - Thurs, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST
Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST
https://consumercare.safety1st.com/s/contact-consumer-care?language=en_US
Manuals:
https://consumercare.safety1st.com/s/?language=en_US

UPPABaby
1-844-823-3132
Mon - Thurs, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Fri - Sun, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Eastern
https://uppababy.com/contact/
Manuals:
https://uppababy.com/manuals/

Urbini (Evenflo):
1-855-334-2229
https://www.evenflo.com/pages/contact-us
Manuals:
https://www.evenflo.com/pages/instruction-manuals