Bob Swanson Memorial Grant Applications Now Open

December 6, 2022

Outdoors outfitter Big Agnes has announced applications for the Bob Swanson Memorial Grant are now being accepted through December 12, 2022.

Bob Swanson, The Tent Guy

Few in the outdoor industry today know of Bob Swanson or his major contributions to our industry. Bob co-founded Sierra Designs, founded Walrus tents, then sold that to REI and followed it up by working for REI for several years before going out on his own as a consultant. Big Agnes was fortunate enough to connect with him, and a long relationship was born.

His passion for design centered on tents and tent architecture. He is widely recognized for ushering in the use of hubs into tent architecture and represented the cutting edge of shelter designers.

Bob worked with the crew at Big Agnes for more than a decade. His business card included the title, ‘The Tent Guy,’ and while that was fitting professionally, he meant so much more to the industry as a friend, role model, sage and pioneer of the outdoor industry.

The Bob Swanson Memorial Grant is dedicated to helping adventurers, explorers, and go-getters tackle their next big endeavor. To honor the memory of Bob Swanson, an icon in the outdoor industry and tent design, the grant committee seeks to help those who seem to best embody Bob’s spirit, love of life, and adventure.

The grant awards funds of varying amounts depending on the prospective project needs and its budget. Grants generally falls between the $500 to $1,000 dollar range and are awarded once a year. Applications open in the fall for adventures occuring the following year.

This grant was created by the owners and staff of Big Agnes in honor of our adventurous and worldly colleague Bob Swanson who passed away in 2016. Click HERE to apply, now through December 12.

OutdoorX4 Magazine – Promoting responsible vehicle-based adventure travel and outdoors adventure