The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) periodically posts information about grant and fundraising opportunities that are available for park and recreation agencies and affiliated friends groups and 501(c)(3) nonprofits.
Current NRPA Opportunities
$2.4 Million in Funding Available to Support Youth Mentoring in Parks and Recreation!
NRPA has TWO grant opportunities available for local park and recreation agencies and their community partners to support mentoring programs! Both grant opportunities will provide funding, training and peer networking opportunities to support park and recreation agencies as they develop and implement mentoring practices in park and recreation settings. Leveraging existing youth programs, agencies are encouraged to submit proposals that integrate more intentional one-on-one and group mentoring services and activities into their existing youth and out-of-school time offerings (afterschool care, STEAM, youth sports, outdoor recreation, arts and cultural activities). In alignment with NRPA’s equity goals, programs should prioritize mentoring services to reach youth who have historically faced barriers to youth development opportunities including historically disenfranchised populations, specifically Black, American Indian/Alaska Native; Hispanic/Latino; Asian American; LGBTQ+ youth; and youth living in low-income and rural communities. The deadline to apply for both opportunities is March 31, 2023. The two opportunities include:
- The Out-of-School Time Youth Mentoring grant will provide $50,000 in funding over 2.5 years to organizations in 20 communities nationwide. This grant is focused on delivering mentoring services through park and recreation-based out-of-school time programs to the target populations above. Learn more and apply.
- The Mentoring for Youth Impacted by Substance Misuse grant will provide $70,000 in funding over 2.5 years to organizations in up to 20 communities. This grant is specifically designed to support youth living in communities with high rates of substance misuse (addiction, substance use disorder, and opioid misuse) and youth who have experienced substance misuse directly (in the home or personally). *Only applicants in Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia are eligible for the Mentoring for Youth Impacted by Substance Misuse grant opportunity. Learn more and apply.
Farmers Markets in Parks and Recreation Community of Practice
TheFarmers Markets in Parks and Recreation Community of Practice (CoP) is an unfunded opportunity for agencies and organizations that support farmers markets in parks and recreation to connect and learn from peers, problem-solve market challenges, and receive assistance from cohort peers and industry experts. From June 2023 - May 2024, the community of practice will guide members through community engagement and market expansion journeys, while centering equity within strategies and operations to ensure markets benefit a diverse network of consumers and farm and ranch operators. Upon selection, NRPA will work with CoP participants to incorporate discussion topics and structure that reflect the needs of the cohort. The CoP will explore best practices, lessons learned and shared challenges around centering equity, shifting power structures and authentic relationship building, marketing and promotion strategies, and more.
All organizations that support farmers markets in park and recreation settings are encouraged to complete a brief application by April 15th, 2023 to participate in the 2023 Community of Practice Cohort. Learn more and apply.
Other Grant Opportunities
These grant opportunities are not sponsored by NRPA. More information can be found in the links below.
WIC Community Innovation and Outreach Subgrants
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children’s (WIC’s) Community Innovation and Outreach (CIAO) project team is accepting applications for subgrants to assist organizations in developing, implementing, and evaluating innovative outreach strategies to increase WIC awareness, participation, and benefit redemption, and reduce disparities in program delivery. Technical assistance will be provided through the applicant process and the subgrant period. Subgrants range from $100,000 to $1 million over 18 months. Applications are due March 23, 2023. Learn more and apply.
USDA Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP) Planning and Implementation Projects
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP) Planning and Implementation grants will support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production projects. Planning projects will initiate or expand efforts of stakeholders in urban areas and suburbs. Projects may target areas of food access, education, business and start-up costs for new farmers, and the development of plans related to zoning and other needs of urban production. Implementation projects will accelerate existing and emerging models of urban, indoor and other agricultural practices that serve farmers and communities. Projects may improve local food access, include collaboration with partner organizations, and support infrastructure needs, emerging technologies and educational endeavors. Applications are due by March 27, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Learn more and apply.
Musco Sports Lighting and US Soccer Foundation Soccer Fund Grant
Musco Sports Lighting and the US Soccer Foundation established the Soccer Fund to offer financial support for sports lighting projects on a rolling basis. Projects can include the Mini-Pitch System or soccer lighting projects of all sizes. Mini-Pitches are ideal for urban areas and other communities where finding a safe place to play can be difficult. Applications will be accepted quarterly, with the first deadline of 2023 on March 31, 2023. Applications will also be accepted June 30, September 30, and December 30. Learn more and apply.
Women's Sports Foundation Sports 4 Life (S4L)
The S4L program, made possible by espnW and Gatorade, offers community funding to support sustainable improvement to the overall health and development of girls through grant making, leadership training, and capacity-building efforts. The program seeks to increase the participation and retention of young girls of color in sports. Funds may be used for coaching, curriculum, equipment, uniforms, transportation, facility rental, tournaments, and/or team-building activities. Letters of Interest are due by April 7, 2023. Full applications will be requested on an invitation only basis. Learn more and apply.
EPA Environmental Justice Government-to-Government Program
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced new grant funding availability to support projects that advance environmental justice in underresourced and overburdened communities across the country. The Environmental Justice Government-to-Government (EJG2G) Program works to support and/or create model state activities that lead to measurable environmental or public health results in communities disproportionately burdened by environmental harms and risks. EJG2G will fund a total of 70 projects of up to $1 million each for a 3-year project. Applications are due by April 10, 2023. Learn more and apply.
CDC DNPAO Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH)
The 5-year REACH program aims to improve health, prevent chronic diseases, and reduce health disparities among racial and ethnic populations with the highests risk of chronic disease through nutrition and physical activity work. REACH programs work specifically among African American, Black, Hispanic, Latino, and Asian American, Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander, American Indian, and Alaska Native populations. There will be a conference call for potential applicantson February 22, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. ET. Applications are due by April 11, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Learn more and apply.
US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Pool Safely Grant Program (PSGP)
CPSC is seeking applications for the Pool Safely Grant Program (PSGP) from state, local, and tribal governments. Pool Safely is a national public education campaign to reduce childhood drownings, submersion injuries, and entrapments. CPSC will award up to $3.5 million in two-year grants this year. An informational webinar will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 2:00pm ET. Applications are due April 30, 2023. Learn more and apply.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Mental Health Awareness Training Grants
SAMHSA's Mental Health Awareness Training Grants will award up to $200,000 to 22 organizations to train individuals to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders and how to safely de-escalate crisis situations involving individuals with a mental illness and provide education on resources available in the community for individuals with a mental illness and other relevant resources, including how to establish linkages with school and/or community-based mental health agencies. Applications are due Monday, May 1, 2023. Learn more and apply.
National Endowment for the Humanities Cultural and Community Resilience
The National Endowment for the Humanities Division of Preservation and Access is accepting applications to support community-based efforts to mitigate climate change and coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacts, safeguard cultural resources, and foster cultural resilience through identifying, documenting, and/or collecting cultural heritage and community experience. Applicants may apply for up to $150,000. Applications are due May 16, 2023 by 11:59 p.m. EST. Learn more and apply.
Saucony Run for Good Foundation
The Saucony Run for Good Foundation is committed to reversing the increasing rate of obesity among U.S. youth by offering children the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of running and a healthier lifestyle. Saucony provides funding to community organizations that promote running and fitness programs for children. Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded. There are two rounds of grants made per year. Applications are due June 15 and December 15. Learn more and apply.
Quadratec Cares Energize the Environment Grant Program
Quadratec is offering two $3,500 grants annually to applicants pursuing a program or initiative designed to benefit our environment. Examples include trail building or restoration projects, park beautification events, litter prevention initiatives, sustainable land management activities, community environmental educational projects and youth educational engagement events. There are two rounds of grants made per year. Applications for the fall grant cycle close June 30 at 11:50 p.m. EST, and applications for the spring grant cycle close October 30 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Learn more and apply.
Karma for Cara (K4C) Foundation Microgrants
The K4C Migrogrant Program provides microgrants between $250 and $1,000 to young citizen leaders age 18 or under to help them execute and magnify their initiatives to help repair our world. Funds may be used to complete a wide variety of innovative service projects in communities across the US. Applications are reviewed quarterly on January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st. Learn more and apply.
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative accepts applications quarterly from nonprofit or tax exempt groups (clubs and associations), public riding areas (local, state and federal), outdoor enthusiast associations and land conservation organizations, and communities with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible and sustainable use by motorized off-road vehicles. The Initiative has contributed more than $3.5 million in funding and equipment across more than 300 projects during the past 10 years to assist outdoor recreationists working to protect and improve access to public land and educate the public on its safe, sustainable recreational use. Applications are accepted quarterly. Learn more and apply.
USTA Tennis Venue Services
USTA funding is available to upgrade existing facilities or add new facilities. Funding Category 1 supports basic facility improvements for up to $5,000. Category 2 supports resurfacing and converting existing tennis courts for up to $35,000, and Category 3 supports new construction and reconstruction of tennis courts, lighting, and the addition of structures over existing tennis courts for up to $55,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply.
Waste Management Charitable Giving
Waste Management offers charitable gifts to promote civic pride, economic development and revitalization. Waste Management primarily supports environmental initiatives, including promoting parklands and green spaces for people to enjoy and play, and environmental education initiatives targeted at middle and high school students. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and public organizations. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Learn more and apply.
Lisa Libraries Grant Program
Nonprofit organizations that serve low-income or underserved areas are eligible to apply for in-kind donations from The Lisa Libraries. The Lisa Libraries provides donations of free books for community facilities to host their own small libraries or to operate programs where children can take the book home. While book donations are free, The Lisa Libraries requests that recipients cover the shipping and handling costs, which are based on the destination and quantity of books. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Learn more and apply.
The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation Grant Program
Municipal entities, local nonprofits and public schools are eligible to apply to support the planting of fruitful trees and plants to alleviate hunger, combat global warming, strengthen communities and improve the surrounding environment. Trees can be planted at community gardens, city and state parks, low-income neighborhoods, Native American reservations, schools, and other locations where they will serve the greater community. The Foundation provides high-quality trees and shrubs, equipment, on-site orchard design expertise and oversight, horticultural workshops, and aftercare training and manuals. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Learn more and apply.
MLB-MLBPA Youth Development Foundation
This program was created to increase participation in and expand access to youth baseball and softball. The program prioritizes bold, innovative, and creative ideas that increase opportunities for youth, particularly those who are minorities, girls, and/or located in underresourced communities. Funds may be used to support capital projects (e.g., field renovations), baseball/softball programs, and education initiatives. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply.
Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program — Rural Communities
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides grants, low-interest direct loans, and/or combinations of the two to develop essential community facilities in rural areas, including public facilities, community support services, and local food systems such as community gardens and food hubs. Public entities, nonprofit organizations and tribal entities in rural communities are eligible to apply. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply.
United States Tennis Association (USTA) Facility Services Program
The USTA offers business development, advocacy, technical and financial support to improve or construct tennis facilities across the country. In addition, each applicant will be appointed a project consultant from the USTA national staff who will deliver personalized support and service. Service applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply.
The Skatepark Project Grants
The Skatepark Project is dedicated to promoting the construction of new, quality skateparks located in underserved communities throughout the United States. The Skatepark Project primarily supports projects that can demonstrate a strong grassroots commitment, particularly in the form of planning and/or fundraising by local skateboarders and other community groups. Priority is given to projects that are designed to increase equity in underserved areas, are built from concrete by experienced skatepark contractors and include local skaters in the planning, fundraising and design process. Grants of $1,000 to $300,000 are provided to nonprofit organizations and state or local agencies, including public school systems and public projects. The Skatepark Project accepts Letters of Inquiry year-round and has quarterly award cycles. Learn more and apply.
Fundraising and Marketing Resources
When looking for funding and grants, there are many resources available on the internet. Below are just a few suggestions on where to start your research.
- Candid (Formerly Foundation Center and Guidestar): Provides training and research information on corporate and foundation grant programs as well as access to IRS 990 forms for foundations and other nonprofit organizations. The grants database is a collection of thousands of grants.
- Yearly offers a free tool to create engaging, digital annual reports, donor reports and event recaps to impress your stakeholders. Yearly is a fun and easy way to design unlimited reports and integrate your stories, videos, social media posts, polls and more. Yearly is currently offering their basic level of service to agencies for free.
- Chronicle of Philanthropy: The Chronicle is a newspaper for nonprofit news publishing, fundraising trends, resources, and recent grants.
- NRPA Crowdfunding Toolkit
- Nonprofit Times: Nonprofit management newspaper.
- Hoovers: Profiles millions of U.S. companies. It is a great source for employee contact information.
- Fortune Magazine: A resource for identifying companies by state and industry.
- Leadership directories
- Google, Yahoo Finance and other general search engines.
- Newspapers and magazines like the Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, New York Times.
For information on fundraising and grant writing best practices, take a look at NRPA's Park and Recreation Professionals' Guide to Fundraising.
If you are interested in learning more about NRPA's fundraising resources, please contact Cassie Pais at 703.858.2151.
