A person sits by a stream in the mountains of Colorado

Scholarships, Fellowships,
and Grants

yellow rafts with rafters on the yampa river surrounded by sandstone

John Fetcher Upper Yampa Water Conservancy District scholarship

The Upper Yampa Water Conservancy District provides two $5,000 one-year water scholarships for full-time university student(s) who are pursuing a water-related career in any major at a public university within the state of Colorado. The Colorado Water Center administers the scholarship.

Featured Programs and Opportunities

Annual and recurring scholarship opportunities

OrganizationScholarship NameDescriptionApplication OpeningApplication Deadline
North American Weather Modification CouncilNorth American Weather Modification Council ScholarshipFor students interested in the field of weather modification and studying science or engineering at an accredited institution.Check website for detailsFebruary 29
Lincoln Institute of Land PolicyBabbitt Center Dissertation Fellowship ProgramThe Lincoln Institute’s Babbitt Center Dissertation Fellowship Program assists PhD students at U.S. universities whose research builds on, and contributes to, the integration of land and water policy to advance water sustainability and resilience, particularly in the West. The program provides support to scholars early in their careers. Check website for detailsMarch 1
CSU Office of the Vice President for ResearchVPR Graduate Fellows ProgramThe Vice President for Research (VPR) Graduate Fellows Program at CSU supports excellence in graduate student research and promotes interdisciplinary work. VPR Graduate Fellows receive research funding, professional development, networking opportunities, and travel funding aimed at preparing them to become thought leaders.January 30March 3
CSU Office of Scholarship and Fellowship AdvisingAstronaut ScholarshipThe Astronaut Scholarship is a prestigious nationally competitive award given to rising juniors and seniors in the STEM fields (those with graduate dates between spring 2026 and spring 2027) who have excelled academically (3.8 GPA or higher) and demonstrated potential as researchers. Recipients of this award receive up to $15,000 for educational expenses.January 28March 3
CSU School of Global Environmental SustainabilityDiana Wall Sustainability Leadership Fellows ProgramAn innovative training for early career scientists to effectively communicate science to the media and public, professional development skills and techniques, and strategies to build meaningful careers that incorporate engagement and interdisciplinarity. The competitive program accepts 20 advanced PhD students and postdoctoral scholars each year from across campus interested in communicating their sustainability-related research.Check website for detailsMarch 10
NoCo Foundation
Multiple Scholarship Opportunities Available
Scholarships cover a diverse range of fields and disciplines, supporting a broad spectrum of interests and career aspirations. Our scholarship recipients excel academically and actively contribute to their communities, leaving a lasting impact on society. This program serves as a testament to our donors’ dedication to creating a brighter, more equitable future for all, thanks to their continued support and belief in the power of education.January 28March 16
Water Environment FederationOperator ScholarshipProvides funding for individuals who are seeking water sector operator education, training, or certification to enter the industry or to advance their knowledge, skills, abilities or license.January 15March 31
Colorado Groundwater AssociationHarlan Erker Memorial ScholarshipThe scholarship is open to graduate students and senior undergraduates currently attending an accredited college or university in Colorado. The winning applicant(s) are required to present their research at a future CGWA monthly meeting and may be invited to present at the annual symposium.Check website for detailsApril 1
Colorado Water Conservation BoardDiane Hoppe Memorial ScholarshipA $2,000 one-year scholarship for a Colorado high school student interested in western water issues planning to attend a trade school, technical school, community college, or a four-year accredited college in Colorado. Also eligible are students who are currently in their freshmen year (or first year) of trade school, technical school, community college, or a four-year accredited college in Colorado.Check website for detailsApril 1
Soil and Water Conservation SocietyMultiple Scholarship Opportunities AvailableThree scholarships available to all SWCS members, with more opportunities through individual SWCS chapters, providing financial aid and assistance for professional development, academic study, and conservation research.Check website for detailsApril 14
American Ground Water TrustMultiple Scholarship Opportunities AvailableScholarships available for entry level college students intending to pursue a career in the field of groundwater.Check website for detailsApril 30

Colorado Water Center CSU grant program

Funding water research, extension, and education projects through our land-grant mission.

Converging social, political, and cultural changes gave rise to the creation of land-grant institutions. CSU’s land-grant mission provides the framework to advance our ability to address myriad water issues impacting the quality of life in Colorado, the U.S., and the world.

The purpose of this grant program is to invest in transdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships that ultimately lead to a more holistic understanding of water resource issues, and to integrate translation of this understanding into the water resource profession, as well as educate the future water workforce.

Priority funding areas

The CoWC seeks to support 2025-26 CSU Grant Projects that advance knowledge and lead to actionable science in the following priority areas:

  • Sustainable water management that benefits agricultural, municipal, and environmental uses
  • Improved water quality and access in rural and urban environments

Eligibility and award details

Must be current CSU faculty members, research scientists, research associates or other staff working in water resources. The maximum funding for this grant is $25,000. Up to three projects will be funded subject to funding availability.

Need help?

Please contact us with questions or for more information.