Best Playground Grants for Nonprofits

Local government units in Hennepin County can access funding to purchase sports and recreational equipment for youth through Minnesota State Government - Hennepin County’s Youth Activities Equipment Grants, with awards up to US $10,000. Projects that enhance playgrounds, sports facilities, or other youth play spaces may be eligible.

Local government units in Hennepin County can seek funding to create, expand, or improve youth athletic facilities, recreational facilities, playgrounds, and other play spaces. The Minnesota State Government - Hennepin County Youth Activities Grants program offers play area grants up to US $300,000 to increase youth access to sports and safe recreational activities.

Boston 501(c)(3) organizations more than a year old can seek funding for playgrounds, recreation, and related community projects serving local residents. With a mission to strengthen community life, the City of Boston provides small grants to support children’s play areas, recreation programs, beautifying public spaces, and field trips for Boston youth.

Alaska nonprofits planning capital or programmatic projects like playgrounds, parks, or trail improvements can seek $35,000 to $250,000 through Community Support Grants. Focused on projects with broad community impact, Rasmuson Foundation funds construction, renovation, equipment, historic preservation, pilot projects, and limited pre-development, with up to 15% allowed for administrative costs.

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust provides Tennessee government entities and nonprofit organizations with support to create free, public BlueCross Healthy Places, including playgrounds and other recreational spaces. Eligible titleholders of project sites must show community input, document land boundaries, and agree to exclusive BlueCross Healthy Place branding for amenities like play areas, fitness zones, and sports courts.

Kansas local governments, park districts, and K–12 public or private schools can obtain funding to buy playground surfacing and other tire-derived products made from recycled waste tires in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Waste Tire Grants support projects using at least 50% waste tire material by weight and require a 50% match from grantees.

Nonprofit charitable or educational organizations serving children, youth, or families in Los Angeles or Kern counties can seek funding for programs, facilities, or playground-related needs. Focused on veterans, homelessness, and children, Employees Community Fund invites locally rooted organizations to apply by invitation after referral from a contributing Boeing employee or retiree.

Nonprofit and municipal Keep America Beautiful affiliates in the U.S. can receive up to US $5,000 to support litter removal, recycling initiatives, beautification, and playground and park improvements. With a mission to improve and beautify communities, Keep America Beautiful provides affiliates with cleanup kits and small cash grants for Greatest American Cleanup projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, governments, congregations, and educational institutions in select North and South Carolina cities can seek US $10,000 - US $150,000 for one-time capital projects that benefit at-risk youth, including playgrounds and recreational spaces. Foundation for the Carolinas’ Longleaf Fund also supports education technology and adaptive equipment for children with disabilities.

Fremont Area Community Foundation provides Mecosta County playground and community organizations with funding for projects that enhance local quality of life, including playground improvements. Twice-yearly grants support initiatives in arts and culture, education, health, environmental conservation, community development, historic resources, social services, recycling, and play spaces that benefit area residents.

Nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and other governmental entities in Shiawassee County can receive support to repair or enhance public playgrounds and youth recreational facilities. Focused on playground restoration and maintenance, Shiawassee Community Foundation invites local groups to request materials and supplies that improve safe, engaging play spaces for children.

Wisconsin friends groups and 501(c)(3) conservation nonprofits improving nature-based recreation and playground facilities on state properties in Wisconsin can access funding through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Grants of US $20,000 - US $60,000 support long-term capital improvements, new recreation projects, and habitat restoration that enhance outdoor play and accessibility.

Friends groups and 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation organizations in Wisconsin can apply for Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources grants up to US $20,000 per state property to improve nature-based outdoor recreation facilities, including eligible playground elements. Funding covers up to 50% of project costs for permanent capital improvements or habitat restoration on state properties.

501(c)(3) nonprofits across the U.S. with local community projects, including playgrounds and public play spaces, can apply for Kubota’s Hometown Proud Grant Program; awards Up to US $50,000 in combined cash and equipment. Funding supports community development, parks, greening, and recreation projects in partnership with local Kubota dealers.

Nonprofit and community groups improving playgrounds and parks in Berks County can access funding through the Gilmore | Henne Community Fund for recreational park programs or park improvements and maintenance. Administered by Berks County Community Foundation, this grant offers up to US $2,000 per park or playground, with preference for program-related requests.

The Places and Spaces Program aims to enhance neighborhoods in Hampton by funding collaborative projects that improve public spaces. Eligible organizations can apply for grants up to $150,000 for projects like entryway improvements and community enhancements. Emphasis is placed on inclusivity and strategic planning to ensure that projects reflect community priorities. Applications must be submitted 30 days prior to the grant application deadline, ensuring adequate preparation and community involvement.

The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation, established in 1970, focuses on enhancing community quality of life in north central Iowa. With over $72 million in assets, the foundation has awarded $64 million to nearly 1,000 organizations, supporting arts, culture, family recreation, and youth education. Their mission emphasizes innovative projects that strengthen families, with a commitment to community engagement and philanthropic ties to the Mayo Clinic, ensuring a lasting positive impact.

The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism

Dougie Jr. was diagnosed with childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), a very rare autism spectrum disorder, when he was three years old. Dougie was typically developing until he started to lose his language, motor and social skills at age three. At the time, there were no services offered for people and families with autism. Doug and Laurie started the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism to help other people and families with autism have access to the same opportunities, therapies and programs to live life to the fullest.

Our mission is to help people and families with autism live life to the fullest. Our Vision is focused in a world where people with autism lead productive lives where they are included, respected, and actively engaged in their communities.

Playground Communication Boards Program

Rooted in the belief that every voice matters, our playground communication board uses images and symbols to bridge gaps in communication. Visual aids support a wide range of learners, including verbal, neurotypical peers, and promote inclusion of people with differing abilities. Our mission is to ensure everyone, regardless of their communication abilities, can express their thoughts, needs, and feelings; fostering a truly inclusive and engaging community.

We are excited to announce that grant applications are now open to playgrounds across Massachusetts as part of our vision: One Board in Every Town and City. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants will be notified of their status within 30 days of submission.

Greenville County nonprofits planning playgrounds, parks, or other green public spaces can access funding through the Community Foundation of Greenville’s New Leaf Fund. Awards of US $20,000 - US $100,000 support land and waterfront protection, increased tree cover and green space access, and preservation or restoration of historical and cultural assets, including related planning and design costs.

Nonprofits preserving or enhancing parks, open spaces, playgrounds, and cultural or historical sites in Greenville County, South Carolina can apply for grants ranging from US $20,000 - US $100,000. Grants from Community Foundation of Greenville support land and waterfront protection, increased tree cover, green space access, and related planning or design costs, including projects that may incorporate playground improvements.

Local governments in Montana can seek funding to construct or rehabilitate public and community facilities, including playgrounds and other public spaces that benefit low- to moderate-income residents. Focused on community infrastructure, the Montana Department of Commerce supports projects that improve living environments or expand access to essential services for eligible neighborhoods.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department provides outdoor recreational opportunities by managing and protecting wildlife and wildlife habitat and acquiring and managing parklands and historic areas. It has inherited the functions of many state entities created to protect Texas' natural resources.

Mission: To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Grants

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program is a competitive grant initiative under the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act, aimed at enhancing parks, recreational opportunities, and conservation areas in underserved, urban areas. These investments enable urban communities to create new outdoor recreation spaces, reinvigorate existing parks, and form connections between people and the outdoors.

Managed by the National Park Service (NPS) and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), the nationally competitive ORLP program provides matching grants (up to 50% of total project costs) to assist communities with little to no access to outdoor recreation opportunities in urban areas. Funds can be used for the acquisition and/or development of, or substantial renovation of public parks and other outdoor recreation spaces. Development should encompass essential public outdoor recreation activities and the necessary support facilities for public use. Projects could involve a combination of land acquisition and site development. These projects can cater to a diverse range of public outdoor recreation activities and facilities required to enhance the use and enjoyment for the public. These include, and are not limited to community parks, campgrounds, playgrounds, sport fields and courts, picnic facilities, trails, etc. While facilities that support the use of the recreating public, such as restroom, visitor contact infrastructure, and maintenance facilities can be eligible, most indoor recreation and other buildings such as nature centers, community centers, or education center are ineligible for funding.

Only State Lead Agencies are eligible to submit applications for ORLP grants. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is the State Lead Agency. TPWD may submit on behalf of themselves or an eligible sub-recipient.

ORLP projects must meet two eligibility criteria: The required population in census tracts is set at 25,000 people and the project must be within an underserved community.

NY PLAYS: Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization

Recognizing that Playgrounds promote physical activity, exercise, and building friendships – and that research shows outdoor play supports emotional well-being – Governor Hochul announced the New York Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) Initiative. This new competitive grant program will support the design, construction, and renovation of Playgrounds that are open to the public in Communities across the State.

NY PLAYS is overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (“NYS OPRHP”) and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (“DASNY”). 

About HCR

Mission Statement

New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the State’s affordable housing agency, with a mission to build, preserve, and protect affordable housing and increase homeownership throughout New York State.

New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

Funds Available

The NYS CDBG Program is administered by the Housing Trust Fund Corporation’s (HTFC) Office of Community Renewal (OCR) and funds a variety of activities across the State to develop viable communities. CDBG Program funds are allocated to New York State by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the NYS CDBG Program. HTFC will make available approximately $20 million in NYS Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funds through this Request for Applications (RFA). This RFA is limited to the activities listed below. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. Funding for CDBG public infrastructure and housing activities will be announced separately and subject to a future Request for Applications.

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs works every day to positively impact Alabama communities through partnerships, grant programs, and services to spur community and economic development and enhance quality of life.

ADECA is a state agency that partners with leaders at the local level to positively impact and enhance the quality of life in Alabama communities through dozens of federal and state grant programs, surplus property, and water resource management.

ADECA’s grant programs support and fund local initiatives that communities often would not be able to afford on their own and improve many facets of life through community and economic development. Our programs help address critical infrastructure needs like water, sewer, and broadband; provide law enforcement equipment and support for victims of crime; build new trails and recreational features; and assist with energy efficiency that lowers energy costs.

Land and Water Conservation Fund

The U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, provides LWCF matching grants to States and local governments for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas. The LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 “…to assist in preserving, developing and assuring accessibility to all citizens of the United States of America of present and future generations…such quality and quantity of outdoor recreation resources as may be available and are necessary and desirable for individual active participation…”

Matching Percentage: 50/50

An entity may not apply for both Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and LWCF assistance.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Grants Administered by the Community Foundation

The Community Foundation administers competitive grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations on behalf of donors with funds at the Community Foundation as well as external funders. 

Variety KC Ten Parks Project

Variety KC is a children’s charity committed to helping kids of all abilities Be Active, Be Social, and Belong by providing adaptive equipment, therapies, and opportunities for activity and full inclusion.

Grant Focus

Variety KC is partnering with municipalities to develop large, destination-level inclusive playgrounds serving children and families of all abilities across Greater Kansas City. Through the Ten Parks Project, Variety KC, with anchor support from the Mallouk Family Foundation, aims to build the region’s first network of fully inclusive play spaces, shaped by Universal Design principles and informed by individuals with disabilities and their families.

The Wil and Rachel Blechman Grant, established by the Florida Kiwanis Foundation, focuses on enhancing the development of children aged 0-5 years in Florida. Grants support various initiatives, including scholarships for educators, educational seminars, reading programs, and resources for families in low-income areas. By fostering early childhood development and community engagement, the foundation aims to create a lasting impact on the lives of young children and their families.