Mars One is an organization intent on colonizing Mars in 2023. They have a plan to prepare Mars for Colonists. Four humans will arrive on Mars Every two years afterwards adding more another group of four humans.
This will be paid for with private funds. Mars One believes they will be able to make money with this being a media spectacle. You can expect reality television to be beamed from Mars to our televisions.
Check out the video below. Also check out their website Mars One.
I have stated on this site numerous times my desire to live in the promised Moon Colony. But I think the Mars Colony would be further away than I prefer. But it is intriguing and I could change my mind if my wife would join me.