Best Aging Grants

Aging grants are available to nonprofits, senior service providers, healthcare institutions, government agencies, and academic research institutions working to improve the lives of older adults. Community-based organizations and advocacy groups focused on the elderly population and aging-related issues may also be eligible. Specific programs supported by aging grants include those working to enhance healthcare, housing, social services, and caregiver support for older adult populations.

Grants in aging typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 31.3% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

The main goal of aging grants is to improve the well-being, safety, and quality of care for older adults. These grants aim to achieve this by addressing key issues such as healthcare access, dementia care, prevention of abuse, housing assistance, and social activities. Aging grants may also support workforce development for caregivers of the elderly. Many also back aging-in-place initiatives, helping seniors stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible. Research and policy advocacy aimed at improving public health and long-term care for the aging population are also common priorities for aging grants.

On average, grants in aging provide funding between $600 and $2,500,000, with typical awards falling around $28,125 (median) and $171,236 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Aging grants are typically funded by federal agencies, private foundations, and corporate sponsors. Major funders in this space include the Administration for Community Living (ACL), AARP Foundation, The John A. Hartford Foundation, The Retirement Research Foundation, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Many local and state agencies also provide funding, particularly for programs that address regional challenges.

To improve the chances of being awarded aging grants, applicants should:

• Align your proposal with the funder’s priorities – Research the funder and their guidelines carefully so you can highlight how your project fits within their goals.
• Use data to prove your need for funding – Show clear evidence of the need for your program and the impact it will have.
• Outline clear goals – Funders want to see how you will measure and track success for your initiative.
• Build strong partnerships – Collaborate with other organizations, healthcare providers, or local agencies to strengthen your proposal. Demonstrating local support and participation can also make your application more competitive.

Looking for funding opportunities? Explore our list of the best places to find grants and increase your chances of securing funding.