ADOPTION EDUCATION GRANT PROGRAM
Teach. Inspire.
Make every adoption a success!
Program Overview
MHF Members can apply - Need to join?
Program Description
The Mustang Heritage Foundation’s (MHF) Adoption Education Grant Program supports creative, impactful events that promote and support successful Mustang adoptions through education, training, and community engagement. Our mission is to empower trainers and organizations to design events that connect people with America’s mustang, teach the skills needed for long-term success, and inspire more people to choose a mustang as their next equine partner.
Program Goals
1. Increase Mustang Adoptions – Support events that build awareness and interest in Mustangs as versatile, trainable partners. 2. Enhance Adoption Success Rates – Promote education that prepares adopters for the unique needs, challenges, and care of Mustangs. 3. Encourage Innovation in Outreach – Fund diverse event formats to reach different audiences. 4. Strengthen Community Connections – Encourage partnerships between trainers, adoption centers, riding clubs, equestrian facilities, and other local groups.
Eligible Events
Funding is available for educational events that directly support Mustang adoption success. Examples are as follows, but not limited to: • Training Clinics (starting or advancing Mustangs) • Handling & Groundwork Demonstrations • Adopter Bootcamps or “First time” workshops • Youth, Equine therapy, or veteran programs featuring Mustangs • Open houses at adoption facilities Note: Events must clearly connect to improving Mustang adoption outcomes, but the format, audience, and delivery style can be creative and unique.
Funding & Sponsorship Guidelines
• Award Range: $250 – $5,000 per event (depending on scale, reach, and impact) • Grant May Cover: Venue fees, clinician fees, marketing support through MHF, educational materials, facility rental, travel, audio/visual needs, or supplies for demonstrations • Grant Will Not Cover: Prize money, personal stipends unrelated to event work, unrelated capital improvements, or ongoing operating expenses
Requirements
Applicants must: • Be a current MHF member • Be an individual, nonprofit, business, or community group in the U.S. • Have a clear plan for promoting and delivering the event • Demonstrate how the event supports Mustang adoption success • Commit to submitting a post-event summary with attendance, photos, and an impact statement All applications are subject to approval at the full discretion of the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated on: 1. Impact Potential – How well the event is expected to increase or support Mustang adoptions. 2. Audience Reach – Size and diversity of audience, including first-time Mustang adopters. 3. Educational Value – Quality and relevance of educational content. 4. Creativity & Engagement – Innovative ways of connecting with the community. 5. Feasibility – Realistic budget, timeline, and resources. 6. Need – the applicant’s need will be considered. All applications are subject to approval at the full discretion of the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
Post-Event Requirements
Recipients must submit within 30 days: • Attendance / Participant numbers • If applicable, number of mustangs involved • Photos and/or short video clips (with permissions for MHF to use) • Written impact summary (e.g., adoptions facilitated, participants who started adoption process, testimonials from participants) • Testimonial or story of impact (e.g., new adopter inspired, returning competitor’s success) • Budget reconciliation