April 1, 2026

chfa direct effect awards application open

/directeffectA hand drawing a web of icons with overlay text that reads corporate giving direct effect awardsCHFA is pleased to announce the application for the first round of 2026 Direct Effect Awards is now open. Round One is open to organizations applying for funds to advance affordable homeownership and affordable rental housing. Please visit www.chfainfo.com/directeffect to apply and learn more.

Direct Effect Awards are an opportunity for CHFA to recognize and support Colorado nonprofits whose missions align with our work to strengthen Colorado by investing in affordable housing and community development. In order to review applications more holistically and respond to an increased volume of requests, CHFA has refined its Direct Effect funding guidelines to be more responsive to organizations working to directly advance affordable housing and economic development. Read more about the updated funding criteria here.

Awards will typically range from $5,000 to $50,000. In 2025, the average donation amount was $8,902. All applications must be received by 11:59pm MT on April 30, 2026.

The Round Two Application will open June 22nd and close July 17th. Awardees will be notified in early October 2026. Round Two will be open to organizations applying for funds to advance economic development, education, and food access.