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Shimano Trail Born FundShimano invests 10 million US dollars in trail building projects worldwide

Stefan Frey

 · 01.08.2024

New trails don't build themselves! Shimano wants to invest 10 million US dollars in trail building projects over the next 10 years.
Photo: Sterling Lorence
Shimano has announced the new Trail Born Fund, an initiative to support the construction and maintenance of mountain bike trails worldwide. The fund is to be endowed with ten million US dollars over the next ten years.

With the new Trail Born Fund, Shimano wants to contribute to the further development of the existing trail network in the coming years. Shimano's extensive investment plan is designed to support local and global mountain bike trail projects and promote sustainable progress. Shimano is particularly pleased to be able to recognise and support the passionate work of trail builders.

New trails don't build themselves! Shimano plans to invest 10 million US dollars in trail building projects over the next 10 yearsPhoto: Sterling LorenceNew trails don't build themselves! Shimano plans to invest 10 million US dollars in trail building projects over the next 10 years

In view of the high costs involved in building and maintaining quality trails - between 15,000 and 65,000 euros per kilometre can be incurred - Shimano considers this project to be an investment of incalculable value. The promotion and maintenance of mountain bike trails should not only keep the sport attractive for active riders, but also inspire newcomers, especially children, to take up mountain biking.

The right tools will also be part of the support programmePhoto: Sterling LorenceThe right tools will also be part of the support programme

Trail Born Fund Regions

The Trail Born Fund will initially support projects in North America, Europe and Oceania and plans to expand its reach by 2025. From 2026, the aim is to also tackle trail building projects in Asia, Africa and Central and South America. According to Shimano, only projects that are demonstrably legal and sustainable can receive funding.

By the way: Many new legal trails have also been created in Germany recentlywhich we have summarised in a separate article. Have fun exploring!

In addition to financial support, Shimano will also support these projects with public relations work and advise on further financing options.

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In America, trail maintenance has long been part of good mannersPhoto: Sterling LorenceIn America, trail maintenance has long been part of good manners

Shimano - Paving the way for MTB sport

With the introduction of the Deore XT M700 in 1983, the Shimano pioneer of mountain biking and has played a key role in the promotion and development of the sport ever since. The understanding of the need for partnerships and community work to create and maintain mountain bike trails is deeply rooted in the company's philosophy.

The Trail Born Fund will thus extend Shimano's endeavours to advance the sport of mountain biking through continuous innovation and support of the necessary infrastructure.

Good prospects: Shimano's Trail Born Fund aims to support projects worldwidePhoto: Sterling LorenceGood prospects: Shimano's Trail Born Fund aims to support projects worldwide
Stefan Frey

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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