Each year, a valuable but often overlooked funding opportunity is available to local off-road activity clubs, such as snowmobiles and ATVs, across Canada and the United States. Since 2006, Polaris has offered the TRAILS Grant Program to support local groups in developing and maintaining trails, promoting safety, and protecting natural resources.
If you belong to a snowmobile club or association, this program has a lot to offer. In this column, I outline the eligibility criteria, past successes, and challenges to consider. Here is what I discovered—and what it could mean for snowmobile clubs in Canada.
As you’ve undoubtedly noticed, infrastructure project costs have skyrocketed over the past 5 to 10 years. As a result, any available financial help is generally welcomed. This is where this program truly shines—when funding is difficult to secure. I felt it was important to inform people about the Polaris TRAILS Grants Program in my own way!
Polaris TRAILS Grants Program: Financial Support for Clubs and Non-profit Organizations
The Polaris TRAILS Grants Program targets non-profit organizations (NPOs) across Canada and the United States—associations, clubs, and grassroots groups. It funds projects by providing financial support or material resources. Since its creation, the program has invested over US$3.5M (CA$4.9M) in more than 425 organizations.
Eligibility criteria for the Polaris TRAILS Grant Program
To qualify for the program, an organization must meet three criteria:
- Hold recognized non-profit organization (NPO) status.
- Have submitted the final report for any previous TRAILS-funded project (work completed, photos, results report).
- For trail development or maintenance projects, provide a GPS file (GPX or Shapefile) of the trail system.
Funding limits under Polaris TRAILS
The Polaris TRAILS Grant Program funds various off-road trail projects, including trail maintenance and development, safety education, environmental protection, and land access. However, there are some limits.
Polaris offers two application periods per year—one in spring and one in fall. Each project is eligible for a maximum of US$10,000 (CA$14,000), and an eligible organization may submit up to two applications per year.
Projects funded by Polaris TRAILS: real impacts on snowmobile trails
Here are a few real-world examples—some in Canada, others elsewhere—highlighting what clubs have accomplished thanks to the Polaris TRAILS Grants.
| Club (Region) | Funded Project | Project Impact |
| Club VTT du Témiscamingue (Lorrainville, Quebec) | Replacement of a bridge on a trail to ensure safe passage. | Ensures trail continuity, avoids dangerous detours or closures, and improves accessibility. |
| International Voyagers Snowmobile Club (Minnesota, USA) | Construction of a covered shelter at a sharp corner on the trail. It serves as a refuge, meeting spot, and a safety marker. (Polaris) | Improved safety, better comfort for snowmobilers, and increased visibility. |
| Sitka Trail Works (Alaska, USA) | Trail rehabilitation and bridge repairs across a multi-use outdoor network to improve safe access and protect the environment. (Polaris) | Land conservation, reduced erosion, safer and more sustainable trail experience. |
Why snowmobile clubs make limited use of Polaris TRAILS Grants
Unfortunately, the Polaris TRAILS Grant Program seems to be either unknown or underused by many Canada snowmobile clubs. Why? In my view, three main obstacles explain this.
A Grant Program Is Still Flying Under the Radar
Many organizations—including snowmobile clubs—simply do not know this funding exists. And even among those aware of the program, some are unsure how to apply or feel intimidated by the process.
Administrative Hurdles for Snowmobile Clubs
Some program requirements may appear difficult for certain organizations. This includes expectations related to previous project reports, trail file formats (GPX or Shapefile), or set deadlines.
Visibility vs. Priority
Finally, many clubs prioritize provincial or municipal grant programs, or funding offered by major national organizations. Few consider programs provided directly by manufacturers.
How to obtain a Polaris TRAILS Grant: 6 recommendations for snowmobile clubs
If your snowmobile club has a project in need of funding, the Polaris TRAILS Grant Program can help. Follow these six recommendations to increase your chances of approval:
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Prepare a digitized trail file
- Ensure you have a GPX or Shapefile of your snowmobile trail network.
- Clearly map problematic areas (worn bridges, erosion zones, dangerous sections).
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Document your previous projects
- If you have previously completed work (repairs, maintenance, signage, etc.), take photos (before, during, and after) and archive them.
- Prepare a concise report (costs, volunteer hours, benefits, etc.). This helps demonstrate your reliability.
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Identify your priority needs
- Create a list of needs in order of priority: dangerous trail sections, deficient bridges, signage, safety/education initiatives, etc.
- Focus on projects that deliver clear benefits (safety, environmental value, usability).
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Plan for complementary funding
- The maximum grant amount is limited. It often needs to be combined with provincial grants, municipal contributions, or local donations.
- Ensure that additional expenses (transport, local materials, etc.) are covered.
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Respect application deadlines
- Spring: around March 1
- Fall: around September 1
- Preparing a strong application takes time—don’t wait until the last minute.
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Contact Polaris’ Canadian offices
- Verify whether requirements differ or if a local contact is available.
- Ensure your application is eligible under Canadian and NPO rules.
Conclusion: Polaris TRAILS Grants—an opportunity worth considering for snowmobile trails
The Polaris TRAILS Grant Program represents a real opportunity for snowmobile clubs in Canada. These funds (or materials) can help improve trail safety, sustainability, access, and overall user experience. With proper preparation, documentation, and a clear project, Quebec and Canadian organizations can benefit from valuable support for the safety, longevity, and quality of their trail systems.
The Motoneiges.ca team congratulates Polaris for this excellent initiative!
