THE OVERLAND EXPOFOUNDATION

We are a group of enthusiasts passionate about the freedom of overland travel and the majesty of our public lands. Our mission is to help fund stellar organizations and individuals who help protect and advance the overland community.

Advancing the protection of public lands
Enhancing the ability and freedom to explore the world by overland vehicle or adventure motorcycle
Providing education that fosters preparedness, understanding, and a more conscientious community
Completing trail restoration and cleanup programs
Funding travelers that make a difference in our communities

The Overland Expo education series helped me prepare for my 3 month solo trip through Alaska and northwest Canada. Without the knowledge and one-on-one talks with experienced travelers, I would not have had the confidence to complete my trip. The trip itself was life affirming. It was a period of growth, introspection, and greater understanding of self. . . I’m so thankful for my time spent in the program and continue to use the skills I learned.” — Maggie McDermut, Change Your World Fund Grantee 2018

Self-reliance and preparedness are key elements of overlanding. To help those planning an overland journey prepare for their trip, we are introducing the Overland Experience Scholarship Program. For 2022, Overland Expo has donated Overland Experience packages for each event. Participants will be awarded a premium education ticket to the event of their choice.

Must be departing on a planned domestic or international journey in 2022 or 2023.
Must publicly share the journey via social media so we can follow along and share updates.

After acceptance, plan to meet with other scholarship awardees, the Executive Director of the Foundation, and select mentors at Overland Expo to talk about your journey.

After your trip, we may request an article for The Compass.

West: April 20
Pacific NW: June 8
Mountain West: July 26
East: September 7

*You will be notified via email of your acceptance within two weeks of the deadline.

Overland Expo Foundation accepts applications from individuals and 501c3 organizations with an upcoming charitable project or goal that complies with our mission statement.

Protecting access to public lands
Defending use of overland vehicles & adventure motorcycles
Organizing community-wide trail restoration and cleanup
Preserving our public lands
Encouraging people to explore and give back throughout their overland journeys
Building international cooperation or greater understanding of other cultures
Providing education that fosters preparedness, understanding, outdoor sustainability and a more conscientious community

Applicants must request funding for a specific project or goal. We do not fund individuals or an organization’s general operating budget.

News

A Newcomer’s Guide to Overland Expo – East 2026 Edition

First Overland Expo? No problem. Here is everything you need to know, including must have essentials for planning, and our must-see parts of the weekend.

October 14, 2026

Faces of the Foundation: Matt Feldermann

Matt Feldermann is the Brand Marketing Director for the Overland Expo Foundation, where he helps advance the organization’s mission through strategic communications, brand development, and industry engagement.

October 7, 2026

Faces of the Foundation: Rachael Elseman

The Overland Expo Foundation is the official 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of Overland Expo. Established in 2020,

September 22, 2026

Faces of the Foundation: Anthony Sicola

The Overland Expo Foundation is the official 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of Overland Expo. Established in 2020,

September 17, 2026

Overland Expo Foundation Ambassadors are stellar volunteers that donate their time, energy and expertise to the organization. Ambassadors are the spokespeople for the Foundation and assist with live events, fundraising efforts, contribute a special skill set, and involvement with project partners.

Overland Expo Foundation is looking for year-round help with social media, content writing, design projects, photography, and videography.

Your profile listed on the website.
Receive a custom-designed Overland Expo Foundation Ambassador t-shirt, decal, and patch.
Be eligible to attend Overland Expo (Weekend Pass with Camping) and other events for free.

All proceeds from raffles hosted as part of the Overland Expo series.
- Buy your raffle tickets with your ticket or at the Overland Theater proceeding the raffle.
- Donate a prize for the raffle.
Online donations—donate using the button below! (We’re a tax-deductible 501c3 organization.)
A portion of bar sales from Overland Expo West.
Auction of Overland Expo Vehicle / Moto Build Programs.