LAS VEGAS (BRAIN) — The International Mountain Bicycling Association is launching a new program at Interbike called the Dig In Campaign. It's a grant program that puts money raised through national efforts into the coffers of local IMBA chapters who have actionable trail projects. IMBA is nearing its goal of raising $50,000 to support the program and is looking to the bike industry at the show to join in.
As part of Dig In, IMBA will distribute nationally raised funds equally among all participating chapters; provide turnkey marketing tools and a fundraising platform for chapters to use; and leverage its partnerships and reach to run a nationwide promotional campaign encouraging people to donate to mountain bike projects in their area.
"IMBA recognizes that many great places to ride mountain bikes owe their existence to the tireless work of its chapters. These mostly-volunteer-run organizations put considerable effort toward moving trails from concept to reality, but the money needed to build trails is frequently in short supply. The Dig In Campaign is a fresh take on IMBA's old trail development and legal advocacy funds and is intended to help fill that gap," the organization said.
The deadline for IMBA chapters to apply for Dig In grants is Oct. 6. Fundraising and promotional efforts run through Dec. 31. IMBA staff will vet Dig In applications, which are subject to final approval. Funds will be distributed in late winter, immediately after the campaign concludes.
Aimee Ross, IMBA's director of brand development and Dave Wiens, IMBA's executive director, are at Interbike discussing Dig In and IMBA's 2018 programs and initiatives. They will be at the IMBA booth (#L21) during the show.
