Best Youth Sports Grants in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Recycling Program was established through the Arizona Solid Waste Recycling Act of 1990 (A.R.S. §49-831 et seq.). The Recycling Program is responsible for providing public education to encourage participation in recycling and source reduction, and for providing the public with information about proper solid waste disposal. Waste Reduction Initiative Through Education (WRITE) grantsThe objective of the WRITE program is to provide all Arizonans with the information and education needed to increase awareness on how to properly reduce and dispose of solid waste, and to encourage participation in source reduction, reuse, and recycling opportunities. WRITE projects should communicate the importance of conserving natural resources and the benefits of reducing, reusing, recycling, buying recycled products, composting and/or properly disposing of solid waste.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Recycling Program was established through the Arizona Solid Waste Recycling Act of 1990 (A.R.S. §49-831 et seq.). The Recycling Program is responsible for providing public education to encourage participation in recycling and source reduction, and for providing the public with information about proper solid waste disposal. Waste Reduction Assistance (WRA) grants

The objective of the WRA program is to provide recycling opportunities to all Arizonans, and to provide funding assistance to projects that divert significant amounts of materials from the solid waste stream or are a component of a comprehensive program designed to achieve high diversion levels. WRA projects may include a small public awareness component, but must have a component that diverts material from the waste stream. Funds initiatives like curbside recycling and household hazardous waste collections to majorly curb the solid waste stream.

The Southwest Intervention Fund, managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, supports preservation efforts of traditional cultures across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, West Texas, and Utah. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 are available for local partners, nonprofits, and government agencies to address emergency threats and promote preservation planning. Eligible projects include archaeological site surveys, public awareness workshops, and legal assistance for cultural resource management, ensuring the protection of vital historic sites.

Arizona Criminal Justice Commission

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission is a statutorily authorized entity mandated to carry out various coordinating, monitoring and reporting functions regarding the administration and management of criminal justice programs in Arizona. In accordance with statutory guidelines, the Commission is comprised of 22 members who represent various elements of the criminal justice system in Arizona. The Commission staff is comprised of up to 25 employees working in seven key program areas. Those program areas are Crime Victim Services, the Statistical Analysis Center, Criminal Justice Systems Improvement, Public Information, Information Technology, Finance, and Drug, Gang, and Violent Crime Control. 

Crime Victim Services Assistance Program

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (ACJC) pursuant to A.R.S. § 41-2407, has authorized the distribution of Crime Victim Assistance funds through a competitive grant process. The grant funds must be used to provide victim assistance services or services addressing victimization in Arizona in compliance with Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R10-4-201 through R10-4-204 and Commission guidelines. 

Matching funds of 20 percent of the total grant award are required. 

Special Funding Priorities

For the FY 2027 grant period, the Commission has approved awarding victim assistance funding in accordance with the following tier structure: Tier 1; Tier 2; and Tier 3

Tier 3

Fund all other victim service projects that meet ACJC victim assistance grant program eligibility requirements, for a period beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027. Projects demonstrating the lowest percentage of funding support from DPS-VOCA Assistance grant funds during the grant period will be prioritized.

Arizona Criminal Justice Commission

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission is a statutorily authorized entity mandated to carry out various coordinating, monitoring and reporting functions regarding the administration and management of criminal justice programs in Arizona. In accordance with statutory guidelines, the Commission is comprised of 22 members who represent various elements of the criminal justice system in Arizona. The Commission staff is comprised of up to 25 employees working in seven key program areas. Those program areas are Crime Victim Services, the Statistical Analysis Center, Criminal Justice Systems Improvement, Public Information, Information Technology, Finance, and Drug, Gang, and Violent Crime Control. 

Crime Victim Services Assistance Program

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (ACJC) pursuant to A.R.S. § 41-2407, has authorized the distribution of Crime Victim Assistance funds through a competitive grant process. The grant funds must be used to provide victim assistance services or services addressing victimization in Arizona in compliance with Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R10-4-201 through R10-4-204 and Commission guidelines. 

Matching funds of 20 percent of the total grant award are required. 

Special Funding Priorities

For the FY 2027 grant period, the Commission has approved awarding victim assistance funding in accordance with the following tier structure: Tier 1; Tier 2; and Tier 3

Tier 2

Fund projects identified as VOCA Assistance ineligible, for a period beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027. Projects must meet ACJC victim assistance grant program eligibility requirements.

The Pentair Foundation, a corporate philanthropy initiative, focuses on creating sustainable communities through water solutions and STEM education. With over $80 million in contributions since 1998, the foundation emphasizes ecological resilience, water quality improvement, and youth engagement in science and technology. They prioritize grantmaking in specific U.S. states and international regions, fostering vibrant communities and encouraging employee volunteerism. Initiatives are invitation-only, ensuring a targeted approach to impactful philanthropy.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

Arizona Criminal Justice Commission

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission is a statutorily authorized entity mandated to carry out various coordinating, monitoring and reporting functions regarding the administration and management of criminal justice programs in Arizona. In accordance with statutory guidelines, the Commission is comprised of 22 members who represent various elements of the criminal justice system in Arizona. The Commission staff is comprised of up to 25 employees working in seven key program areas. Those program areas are Crime Victim Services, the Statistical Analysis Center, Criminal Justice Systems Improvement, Public Information, Information Technology, Finance, and Drug, Gang, and Violent Crime Control. 

Crime Victim Services Assistance Program

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (ACJC) pursuant to A.R.S. § 41-2407, has authorized the distribution of Crime Victim Assistance funds through a competitive grant process. The grant funds must be used to provide victim assistance services or services addressing victimization in Arizona in compliance with Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R10-4-201 through R10-4-204 and Commission guidelines. 

Matching funds of 20 percent of the total grant award are required. 

Special Funding Priorities

For the FY 2027 grant period, the Commission has approved awarding victim assistance funding in accordance with the following tier structure: Tier 1; Tier 2; and Tier 3

Tier 1

Fund crime victim service training projects, for a period beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027. Projects must meet current ACJC victim assistance grant program eligibility requirements.

Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records

Arizona Revised Statutes Title 41; Article 2.1 establishes the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records, referred to as "the State Library", in the Office of the Secretary of State. The State Library was founded in 1915 to collect, preserve, and provide access to materials relating to law, political science, economics, sociology, subjects pertaining to the theory and practice of government, genealogy, and Arizona history. The format of materials may vary, but the majority of the collections contain unique and original materials or historic published texts, newspapers, and maps that can be found nowhere else.

Mission: To provide Arizonans access to information about their government, their state, and their world by offering content in a variety of formats, preserving Arizona's history for future generations, and empowering local institutions to engage their communities in learning.

Library Services & Technology Act (LSTA) Funding

Competitive project grants of federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) are offered in support of the State Library’s Five-Year Plan, as approved by IMLS, and to help fulfill the mission of the Library Development branch to “empower Arizona libraries to offer excellent customer service through consulting, grant funding, resources, and training.”

All grants for 2026 fall under two categories: a smaller Express Grants; and a larger General Grants

General Grants

The larger General Grants allow for more creativity in designing projects in the areas of:

• Information Preservation and Access
• Informal Education
• Institutional Improvements
• Inclusive Communities

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Colorado Plateau Foundation offers the CPF Rapid Response Grant to support Native-led organizations addressing urgent needs in the Colorado Plateau region. Grants of up to $10,000 are available at any time, separate from the annual grant cycle. The foundation focuses on four priority areas: water protection, sacred place preservation, language preservation, and sustainable agriculture. Since 2012, it has invested over $1.2 million in more than 60 initiatives to empower Native communities.

The Fire Incident Management System Grant, provided by the State of Arizona, aims to enhance the capabilities of local fire departments and districts through funding for essential hardware and software. This initiative supports local governments in improving their fire incident management systems, ensuring better preparedness and response to emergencies. Eligible entities include municipal fire departments and fire districts seeking to upgrade their operational tools to ensure community safety.

The Veterans Donation Fund Large Grant A.R.S. 41-608 supports programs benefiting Arizona's veterans and their families. Established by the Arizona legislature in 1999, the fund is sustained by tax-deductible donations and aims to engage the community in informing veterans about their benefits. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions, focusing on issues like employment, health, and homelessness. This initiative is crucial for enhancing support services for over 600,000 veterans in Arizona.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provides essential financial support for state and local governments in the United States to acquire and develop public outdoor recreation areas. Established in 1965, the LWCF is funded primarily through revenue from offshore oil and gas leasing. This funding ensures the preservation of outdoor spaces, enhancing community access to recreational facilities such as parks, playgrounds, and sports fields, ultimately promoting healthier lifestyles and environmental conservation.

The NAU Astronomy REU Program offers undergraduate students a paid opportunity to engage in research at Northern Arizona University during the summer months. Participants receive a $7000 stipend, potential travel reimbursement, and housing accommodations. The program includes seminars and hands-on experience with local telescopes, fostering skills in astronomy and planetary science. Applications are competitive and targeted at students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and currently enrolled in a degree program.

The Recreational Trails Program, reauthorized by the bipartisan infrastructure law, provides funding for various recreational trail uses, including hiking, biking, and motorized vehicle activities. The Trail Maintenance Program focuses on non-motorized projects, offering $10,000 to $100,000 for routine maintenance and improvements of existing trails. Eligible applicants include governmental entities and non-profits, ensuring trail sustainability and accessibility for all users.

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) offers funding for both motorized and non-motorized trail projects, promoting safe and environmentally responsible recreational use. With up to $10,000 available per project, eligible applicants include government entities and non-profits. Projects can range from trailhead kiosks to educational programs, ensuring diverse community engagement. This initiative, reauthorized through the bipartisan infrastructure law, aims to enhance access to and the quality of recreational trails across states.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund offers large scale grants for projects aimed at developing and maintaining trails in Arizona. Established in 1991, it allocates approximately $2 million annually from motor vehicle fuel taxes to support OHV management. Eligible applicants include government entities, non-profits, and clubs. Funds can be used for land acquisition, trail design, and law enforcement, among other purposes, ensuring sustainable outdoor recreational opportunities.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund offers small scale grants of up to $100,000 for projects aimed at developing and maintaining trails, as well as enhancing support facilities for off-highway vehicle recreation in Arizona. Established in 1991, this fund is supported by a portion of motor vehicle fuel taxes and is available to various entities including governmental bodies and non-profit organizations. The initiative promotes responsible OHV use while supporting law enforcement and environmental compliance.

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Governor’s Discretionary Fund

Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the Governor’s Discretionary Fund awarded by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), the GOYFF works with organizations to implement best practices that provide opportunities for Arizonans to access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in desired careers and match employers with the skilled workers necessary to create thriving economic communities across the state.

Funding supports programs in Arizona's urban, rural, and tribal communities that serve the following target populations:

• Currently and formerly incarcerated individuals.
• Currently or formerly involved with the foster care system.
• Disconnected youth.
• Veterans.
• High school students preparing for college or a career.
• Unemployed and underemployed individuals
• Individuals with disabilities.
• Individuals who have experienced trauma.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund provides essential financial support for managing off-highway vehicle (OHV) activities in Arizona. Established in 1991, it allocates a portion of motor vehicle fuel taxes to fund projects, with approximately $2 million available annually. The Emergency and Mitigation Grants, offering up to $100,000 per project, assist in addressing urgent trail damages caused by vandalism, fire, and weather, ensuring safe recreational environments for all users.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund provides essential support for law enforcement agencies involved in managing off-highway vehicle activities in Arizona. Established in 1991, this fund allocates approximately $2 million annually for projects that enhance safety and compliance. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for law enforcement efforts related to OHV management, ensuring effective use of funds for equipment and personnel. This initiative promotes responsible recreation while safeguarding natural resources.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund provides essential support for trail management and signage projects across Arizona. Established in 1991, the fund allocates approximately $2 million annually, funded by a percentage of motor vehicle fuel taxes. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to eligible governmental entities and non-profits for purchasing and installing trail markers and informational kiosks. This initiative enhances outdoor recreation while promoting responsible OHV use and environmental stewardship.

The Drexel Fund Founders Program is a one-year paid fellowship that helps outstanding leaders already on the path to launching a school continue to plan and open an innovative and effective private school in one of The Drexel Fund’s target states: Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee and Wisconsin. The tenth cohort of the Founders Program is designed for entrepreneurs who will begin the fellowship in Summer 2027 and be ready to launch a new private school in Fall 2028.Through the fellowship, school founders will develop their school’s education model and finalize the nuts and bolts of their school launch, including board and budget development, market analysis, facility location, student recruitment and staff hiring. Founders will create a plan that will make it possible for their school to achieve top-tier results for children while maintaining a sustainable financial model.

The Thiru Family Trust Momentum Maker Grant, valued at $75,000, aims to enhance mental health in Arizona schools, particularly in response to pandemic-related stress. This grant provides essential resources for expert guidance, training sessions, and financial aid for mental health activities. It is open to eligible schools and organizations, promoting innovative solutions to urgent mental health challenges. Applications are welcomed from schools, districts, or representatives acting on their behalf to foster well-being and resilience in educational environments.

The Sundt Foundation, established in 1999, supports local communities by offering grants and volunteer opportunities for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Focused on youth development, hunger and nutrition, and veteran services, the Foundation prioritizes projects in regions such as the Southwest and Southeast United States. However, they do not fund requests exceeding $25,000 or support multi-year pledges, fundraising events, or political causes. Their mission continues to foster community connections and belonging.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.