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Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits

Find recreation grants for nonprofits supporting youth sports, community activities, parks, and inclusive play.

1,000+

Available grants

$126.3M

Total funding

$6.5K

Median grant

1,000+ grants
$126.3M total
$6.5K median

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1,049 Results based on applied filters

Marshfield Area Affiliate Grantmaking Program

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Wood County, Wisconsin
Up to US $2,500
The Marshfield Area Affiliate Grantmaking Program, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Marshfield region. Grants of up to $3,000 are available for projects in education, arts, economic development, and more. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving the area. The program encourages community leadership and thoughtful grantmaking to support diverse initiatives that improve local welfare.
Recreation Educational Access & Equity Arts / Culture Access & Participation +3 more

CCLF Gold Grant

Cherokee County Legacy Foundation (CCLF)
Association/Society
Cherokee County, Iowa
US $10,001 - US $25,000
The CCLF Gold Grant, offered by the Cherokee County Legacy Foundation, supports non-profit organizations and local governmental entities with funding requests ranging from $10,001 to $25,000. Applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by November 15, detailing the organization, project description, funding sources, and community impact. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations or local governments, with a focus on enhancing quality of life in Cherokee County through innovative projects.
Entrepreneurship Economic Services & Development Youth Development & Leadership +16 more

PCC Foundation: Community Foundation Grants

Parke County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Parke County, Indiana
Up to US $1,000
The PCC Foundation offers community grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Parke County. These grants, available to both new and existing charitable organizations, support various initiatives including education, health services, and community development. Applications are accepted year-round, with quick decisions for smaller requests. This funding opportunity encourages projects that address community needs and build capacity, fostering a stronger, more resilient community.
Agriculture Family Services Art & Culture +11 more

CCLF Bronze Grant

Cherokee County Legacy Foundation (CCLF)
Association/Society
Cherokee County, Iowa
Up to US $3,000
The CCLF Bronze Grant provides funding up to $3,000 for non-profit organizations and local governmental entities in Cherokee County to enhance quality of life through various projects. The Cherokee County Legacy Foundation prioritizes innovative economic development, cultural activities, and health services. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits or local governments, while ongoing operational expenses and religious activities are not funded. This grant aims to support impactful community initiatives.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +15 more

Tommy Wilson Memorial Grant

Society Of Health And Physical Educators
Private
United States
US $500 - US $1,500
The Tommy Wilson Memorial Grant, established by Dr. George T. Wilson and his wife Irene, honors their son Tommy, who had cerebral palsy. This grant supports recreational programs for individuals with disabilities and aims to positively impact their lives. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a successful history of programming for individuals with disabilities. The grant prioritizes programs serving economically disadvantaged individuals and may only fund applicants once every five years.
Recreation Disability Care & Services Poverty Alleviation & Services

Impact 100 Hunterdon Grant

Impact 100 Inc
Private
Hunterdon County, New Jersey
US $100,000
Impact 100 Hunterdon Grant empowers women to award transformative grants of $100,000 in Hunterdon County. Established in Spring 2023, this initiative focuses on diverse local women's engagement to foster positive social change. Key areas of funding include arts, education, environment, health, and family support, ensuring that grants significantly benefit the local community. Eligibility requires projects to be completed within three years, fostering impactful collaborations among community members.
Art & Culture Family Services Youth Services +6 more

PA Local Share Account (LSA) – Monroe County Grant

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
State/Local Government
Carbon County, Pennsylvania, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania +4 more
Unspecified amount
The PA Local Share Account (LSA) – Monroe County Grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, allocates 2% of gross terminal revenues from licensed gaming facilities to support community and economic development projects in Monroe County and its neighboring areas. This initiative aims to enhance local well-being and mitigate the impacts of gaming activities, fostering growth and resilience in the region.
Economic Services & Development Recreation

Brown County Community Fund

Nebraska Community Foundation
Private
Brown County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The Brown County Community Fund aims to enhance the quality of life in Brown County by funding charitable projects that address emerging needs. This dedicated foundation encourages community engagement through partnerships and collaboration, ensuring that grants support impactful initiatives in health care, education, and infrastructure. By inviting diverse participation, the fund fosters an optimistic future for all residents, making Brown County a desirable place to live and prosper.
Education Health Care Access & Delivery Recreation +1 more

Cole Center Family YMCA Restricted Fund

Noble County Community Foundation
Private
Noble County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Cole Center Family YMCA Restricted Fund, established in 1997, supports the YMCA's mission to foster community through diverse programs and services for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. With a commitment to youth development, healthy living, and community engagement, this fund plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of Noble County residents. The YMCA seeks to provide inclusive opportunities that reflect the values of Christian principles while promoting health and fitness.
Recreation Summer Camps Youth Development & Leadership +3 more

Noble County Chess Fund

Noble County Community Foundation
Private
Noble County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Noble County Chess Fund, established in 1996 by Tom Feichter, is dedicated to teaching chess to all elementary school children in Noble County. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster participation in chess competitions. Supported by the Community Foundation of Noble County, it seeks to create a positive impact in the community through the promotion of chess, a game that encourages critical thinking and strategy among young learners.
Recreation Education - Elementary School

Toledo Walleye Transportation Fund

Toledo Community Foundation
Private
Ingham County, Michigan, Jackson County, Michigan +8 more
Up to US $1,000
The Toledo Walleye Transportation Fund offers grants to accredited schools and nonprofit organizations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, facilitating transportation to Toledo Mud Hens baseball or Walleye hockey games. Aiming to eliminate financial barriers, the fund provides awards up to $1,000 for eligible applicants. Schools and nonprofits can receive one transportation award for each game annually, promoting enriching experiences for students and communities.
Recreation Sports & Athletics

Caroline Peine Charitable Foundation Grant

Manhattan Fund Caroline F Peine Charitable Foundation
Private
Riley County, Kansas
More than US $25,000
The Caroline Peine Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Manhattan, Kansas, focusing on projects that benefit the KONZA Prairie and promote recreational development in Keats. The Foundation welcomes applications from local nonprofits addressing various community needs, including the arts, historical preservation, and recreational services. However, it does not fund operating costs for city facilities or religious purposes, ensuring that its support aligns with Caroline Peine's commitment to the community.
Art & Culture Recreation Disability Care & Services +4 more

Life Enrichment Foundation (LEF) Scholarships

Life Enrichment Foundation
Association/Society
King County, Washington
Up to US $500

Life Enrichment Foundation provides direct funding assistance related to recreational activities for individuals and organizations with developmental and physical challenges in an effort to build self esteem and confidence and enable them to succeed in today’s modern world.

Commitment to Community

Life Enrichment Foundation is a local philanthropy that supports people with disabilities in King County. Through the Foundation, individuals of all ages with physical and mental disabilities receive grants and scholarships to participate in Community-Based Recreational Activities ranging from Plays and Dances to Special Olympics. These individuals then transfer the skills and benefits from these activities into their everyday lives, building character and focus to help them succeed in today's modern world.

Mission Statement

To provide funding and scholarships to groups and individuals in King County, WA to allow them to participate in community-based, recreational activities to build confidence and self-esteem allowing them to succeed in today's modern world.

Scholarships

LEF provides funding and scholarships to community programs and individuals that need our assistance the most. The funding is directed and prioritized for those individuals in our community that have or support physical and mental disabilities and face economic hardships. 

Scholarships are funded based on Income. The maximum scholarship amount allowed in one calendar year (Jan. to Jan.) is not to exceed $500.00 for the calendar year.

Disability Care & Services Recreation

Superfeet Local Grant

Superfeet Foundation
Corporate
Idaho, Oregon +1 more
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The Superfeet Local Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing community well-being and environmental health. Grants focus on basic needs, outdoor accessibility, and sustainability, empowering underserved populations through equitable access to recreation. Preference is given to initiatives in Washington state, ensuring a meaningful impact in local communities. The foundation's commitment includes funding projects that foster inclusivity and promote long-term engagement with nature and recreational spaces.
Recreation Basic Human Needs Environmental Conservation +5 more

Mr. & Mrs. William Foulds Family Foundation Grant

Foulds Wm Cotr Uw W F Fam Fd
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Mr. & Mrs. William Foulds Family Foundation Grant aims to support charitable interests in Manchester, CT, focusing on public, recreational, cultural, and educational purposes. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, with an average of $1,500. Applications are prioritized based on diversity and alignment with the Foundation's goals. Note that capital project requests are not eligible, and agencies receiving funding for three consecutive years may face lower priority for future grants.
Community Culture & Heritage Education Recreation

Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship: Graduate

Society Of Health And Physical Educators
Private
United States
US $1,750
The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship, established by SHAPE America, honors outstanding graduate students in health and physical education. Awarded annually since 1995, it recognizes two graduate recipients based on academic excellence and leadership. Along with financial support, winners receive a three-year SHAPE America membership, enhancing their professional network. This scholarship underscores the organization's commitment to advancing health education and supporting future leaders in the field.
Education - Higher Education Recreation Dance +2 more

Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship: Undergraduate

Society Of Health And Physical Educators
Private
United States
US $1,250
The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship is awarded annually by SHAPE America to honor outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in health and physical education. Established in 1995, this scholarship supports three undergraduate and two graduate recipients. Candidates must be SHAPE America members, majoring in relevant fields, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a three-year membership to SHAPE America, fostering a commitment to health education and physical activity.
Recreation Dance Wellness & Healthy Living +2 more

Impact100 Global Veterans Awards

Impact100 Global Veterans
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $100,000
The Impact100 Global Veterans Awards empower women to make a significant difference by awarding grants up to $100,000 to nonprofits that serve veterans. Focus areas include art and culture, education, health and wellness, environment, and family initiatives, promoting the well-being and support of veterans across the United States. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including tax-exempt status, and are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize funds effectively within two years.
Art & Culture Military & Veterans Services Educational Access & Equity +17 more

Iowa-Grant Educational Foundation Fund (IGEF)

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Grant County, Wisconsin, Iowa County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Iowa-Grant Educational Foundation Fund (IGEF) supports the Iowa-Grant School District by providing grants for innovative educational programming and scholarships for graduating seniors. Established in 1999 and affiliated with the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, IGEF relies on community donations to enhance educational opportunities beyond the standard budget. Their volunteer board oversees fundraising and grant allocation, ensuring a lasting impact on students and the community in Southern Wisconsin.
Education Education - Higher Education Recreation +1 more

Monticello Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Green County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Monticello Excellence in Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports the Monticello School District through grants awarded annually. This endowment fund enhances educational opportunities by providing resources for programs not typically covered by public funding. Donations are welcome year-round and are tax-deductible, making them a meaningful way to invest in the future of education in Southern Wisconsin.
Education Recreation

New Glarus Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Green County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The New Glarus Excellence in Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports the New Glarus School District with private resources. This endowment fund enhances educational opportunities beyond the standard budget, ensuring quality education for current and future students. Donations are welcome year-round and are tax-deductible, making a meaningful impact on the community. Grants are awarded annually for special projects that enrich the learning environment.
Education Recreation

Robert G. Campbell Community Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Iowa County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Robert G. Campbell Community Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, is an unrestricted endowment dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Iowa County, WI. Focused on supporting seniors, it funds projects that provide recreational opportunities, quality of life improvements, and community events honoring senior contributions. Annually, a portion of the fund's earnings is allocated to grants for the elderly, historic preservation, the arts, the environment, and education, fostering community enrichment.
Community Services Recreation Senior Services

Pecatonica Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Dane County, Wisconsin, Green County, Wisconsin +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Pecatonica Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2010, is an endowment fund managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin. It provides vital resources to support the Pecatonica Area Schools, enhancing educational programs and recognizing student achievements. Grants are awarded annually to fund projects that fall outside the district's budget, ensuring that students receive innovative and quality educational opportunities. This initiative strengthens educational programming not typically covered by tax dollars.
Education Recreation Educational Access & Equity

North Crawford Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Crawford County, Wisconsin, Richland County, Wisconsin +1 more
Unspecified amount
The North Crawford Excellence in Education Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, aims to enhance educational opportunities in Southern Wisconsin. This fund supports innovative projects and scholarships, ensuring that students can access quality education and resources not typically funded by tax dollars. By fostering community investment in education, the fund helps prepare students for future success and enriches the local community.
Education Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation +2 more

Monroe Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Green County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Monroe Excellence in Education Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, provides vital support to the Monroe School District. With over 700 charitable funds totaling more than $50 million, the foundation enhances the quality of life across nine counties in Southern Wisconsin. This fund plays a crucial role in funding educational programs that are not typically covered by tax revenue, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education for future success.
Education Recreation

Mineral Point Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Iowa County, Wisconsin, Lafayette County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Mineral Point Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2016, is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities within the Mineral Point School District. Managed by a local advisory board, this fund supports programming beyond the school's budget, ensuring students receive quality education. The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin oversees this initiative, emphasizing community investment in education for future generations. Contributions to this fund empower innovative educational experiences that are not typically covered by tax dollars.
Education Recreation

Hillsboro Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Juneau County, Wisconsin, Monroe County, Wisconsin +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Hillsboro Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2012, provides essential support for educational programming outside the Hillsboro School District's budget. Managed by a local advisory board, this fund enhances educational opportunities for students in the district. It serves as a critical resource, enabling innovative programming that isn't typically covered by tax dollars, thus investing in the future of Southern Wisconsin's youth.
Education Recreation

Recreation Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Recreation grants for nonprofits provide funding to support parks, sports programs, and community activities. The following grants empower organizations to create inclusive spaces and programs that encourage physical activity, well-being, and community engagement.


Search Instrumentl's Recreation Grants Database


Explore 245 funding opportunities for recreation programs, with $23.1M in resources. Instrumentl connects nonprofits with funding sources, deadline tracking tools, and funder insights to foster healthy and active communities.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Recreation Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

200+ Recreation grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

75 Recreation grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

55 Recreation grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

21 Recreation grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

200+ Recreation grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

500+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Parks & Public Spaces

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Recreation grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the fourth quarter.

Q1
21.4%
Q2
18.6%
Q3
18.2%
Q4
41.9%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Recreation Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $9,000.

$250 $250 Min.
$9,000 $9 K Median
$127,385 $127.4 K Average
$7,650,000 $7.7 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits offering community recreation programs, sports, outdoor activities, or inclusive play areas are eligible for recreation grants. Organizations promoting fitness, well-being, and youth involvement through recreational programs can also apply.

Grants in recreation typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q4, with 41.9% 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 Q3.

The main goal of recreation grants is to increase access to recreational activities, boost community health, and encourage active lifestyles. Funders want to support programs that create safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for sports and outdoor fun. By providing funding for recreational facilities, programs, or events, these grants aim to enhance the overall well-being of communities and make certain that everyone, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to enjoy them.

On average, grants in recreation provide funding between $250 and $7,650,000, with typical awards falling around $9,000 (median) and $127,385 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Recreation grants are funded by government agencies, private foundations, and corporate sponsors committed to health and wellness. For example, the National Park Service may fund projects that develop or improve outdoor recreational areas. Private foundations focused on health and wellness and corporate sponsors in the outdoor gear industry or sports organizations may also offer grants.

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

  • Show how you fulfill community needs – Demonstrate that your project bridges a gap in the recreational opportunities in the community you serve.
  • Prove benefits with data – Highlight the current or potential health and social benefits of your programs on the community, backed by data or research.
  • Engage local partners and get matching funds – Work with schools, local government, or other community organizations to demonstrate broad support. Leveraging additional funding from those partnerships can also show financial commitment.

Want to improve your grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our detailed guide to grant prospect research.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for recreation grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

To learn more about how our platform is different, compare Instrumentl to other grant tools.