Civilian Marksmanship Program Announces $10 Million Challenge Grant for Wyoming State Shooting Complex
Posted on: May 01, 2026
ANNISTON, AL — The Board of Directors of the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is pleased to announce the approval of a $10 million challenge grant dedicated to the development of the new Wyoming State Shooting Complex (WSSC) in Cody, Wyoming. This significant investment marks a major milestone in the CMP’s strategic "Western Expansion," establishing a permanent footprint to serve marksmanship enthusiasts west of the Mississippi River.
The $10 million grant is structured as a matching initiative available for three years. Under the terms of the agreement, the CMP will match new private and industry donations secured by WSSC dollar-for-dollar, up to $10 million.
"Cody, Wyoming, is a great choice for Western expansion," CMP Board Member and Wyoming resident Ed Newell noted following a site visit. "The Wyoming State Shooting Complex” offers a unique opportunity for a high-impact partnership consistent with CMP’s mission to promote youth programs, marksmanship and firearms safety.
A Premier Destination for Marksmanship, the WSSC is currently under development on 2,000 acres of state-contributed land located just seven miles south of downtown Cody. Positioned as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the complex aims to become the nation’s premier shooting sports destination, featuring purpose-built venues for elite competitors, recreational shooters, and youth programs.
Beyond the financial contribution, the partnership includes several key collaborative elements:
- CMP Retail Presence: There's a plan for the WSSC clubhouse to feature a CMP Store which would provide visitors with access to historic American firearms.
- Museum Synergy: The complex’s proximity to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which houses over 7,000 firearms, will create a unique "view it, learn it, then buy it" experience for the more than one million tourists who visit the area annually.
- Expert Range Design: The CMP will provide technical input on range design to ensure the facility can host the organization’s signature matches and national-level competitions.
The WSSC project has earned full support from the Wyoming Legislature and Governor, and it is governed by a Joint Powers Board representing city and county leadership. Construction is already underway, with core infrastructure and internal roads currently being established.
About the Civilian Marksmanship Program: The CMP is a federally chartered 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to instruction in firearms safety and marksmanship training. While serving all U.S. citizens, the CMP places its highest priority on youth programs that encourage personal growth and build life skills through competitive shooting sports.
About the Wyoming State Shooting Complex: The WSSC is a visionary project designed to be a world-class destination for shooting sports. Its mission is to inspire youth participation, promote responsible firearm use, and serve as a catalyst for economic growth and outdoor recreation in the State of Wyoming and our nation.
The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a federally chartered 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation that places its highest priority on firearms safety and marksmanship activities, with a focus on youth. CMP’s programs encourage personal growth and build life skills, with such initiatives as its junior training and competition programs, Affiliated Club program and scholarships providing support to citizens of all backgrounds across the nation. Learn more about the CMP at https://thecmp.org/.
Media Contact: Christine Elder, CMP Communications Manager, celder@thecmp.org