The Colorado Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics is pleased to announce that the Colorado Aeronautical Board (CAB) has officially approved $442,422 in grant funding to support 15 organizations through the fiscal year 2026 Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grant Program.
The grants are designed to support organizations that focus on aviation education and help develop the essential talent pipeline required to support future aviation system needs within the state of Colorado.
This year’s funding aligns with the goals set by the Division’s Strategic Plan, which emphasizes enhancing statewide initiatives that provide value to Colorado’s airports and aviation stakeholders.
The program saw significant interest this year, with 21 applicants requesting a total of $939,795.58. To remain within the approved budget, division staff worked closely with applicants to refine project scopes and focus on key initiatives.
The final approved awards support a diverse range of aviation education and workforce development programs, from high school ground schools and drone soccer programs to advanced flight simulators and aircraft maintenance technician training.
While the Colorado Division of Aeronautics is providing $442,422 in funding, the total impact of these projects is matched by local contributions, bringing the total investment in Colorado’s aviation future to $564,561 for the 2026 grant cycle.
Included in the grant awards is Archuleta School District, which will receive funding for a high school aviation ground school.
The school district will receive $3,500 from the state and provide a local match of $389 for a total of $3,889.
A comprehensive listing of all Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grants can be found at www.codot.gov/programs/aeronautics/programs/cdag/2026avedgrants.
Colorado legislation was created in 1991 to develop and maintain the Colorado Aviation System through taxes collected on aviation fuel sold within the state.
More information can be found at Colorado-Aeronautics.org.
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