Is the Gold Belt Byway Association a nonprofit?

Yes, the Gold Belt Tour Byway Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that received its tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service in March 2000. The organization was incorporated with the State of Colorado on February 17, 1999, after several months of discussion by a committee that decided creating a nonprofit was the best route to manage and preserve the byway. As a 501(c)(3) organization, donations to the Gold Belt Byway Association are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

The nonprofit status enables the association to receive grants, accept tax-deductible donations, and partner with governmental and nongovernmental organizations in accomplishing its mission. Shortly after receiving 501(c)(3) status, the association applied for and received National Scenic Byway designation in June 2000, becoming one of 13 America's Byways in Colorado. The nonprofit structure with an 18-person board representing communities, counties, and specific interest groups along the byway ensures democratic governance and community representation. This organizational model has proven successful over more than two decades, enabling the association to complete over two million dollars in conservation, education, and preservation projects while maintaining the trust and support of individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the byway region.