Upcoming Webinar
How Funders Feel About AI, and What Keeps Them Saying Yes.
Wed, Oct 14 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

1,049 Results based on applied filters

CRDA Community Development Grants

Casino Reinvestment Development Authority
State/Local Government
Atlantic County, New Jersey
Up to US $30,000
The CRDA Community Development Grants aim to enhance Atlantic City through targeted support for community initiatives. Grants of up to $30,000 are available for various projects, including education, youth services, and cultural festivals, fostering a vibrant community for residents and visitors alike. Eligible applicants must be non-profit organizations with a proven track record. The CRDA prioritizes projects that strengthen community ties and improve the quality of life in Atlantic City.
Community Development & Revitalization Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage +4 more

Atmore Community Foundation Grant

Community Foundation of South Alabama
Private
Escambia County, Alabama
Up to US $3,000
The Atmore Community Foundation Grant supports nonprofits in the Atmore community, focusing on enhancing quality of life through various sectors including arts, education, and health. The 2024-2025 cycle emphasizes sustainable programs with measurable outcomes and capacity-building initiatives. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,000 for projects serving the 36502 zip code. Eligible organizations must be IRS recognized 501(c)(3)s or similar entities. Collaboration and innovative approaches are highly encouraged to address community needs.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +7 more

CFMC Competitive Grant Cycle

Community Foundation of Middlesex County
Private
Middlesex County, Connecticut
US $500 - US $5,000
The CFMC Competitive Grant Cycle invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for funding for the year 2026. Two application cycles are available, in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, focusing on general operating support and impactful community programs. The foundation emphasizes grants that address community needs, enhance organizational capacity, and foster collaboration. Eligible organizations must address documented community concerns and align with the foundation's areas of need, including health, education, and social services.
Education Environment Animal Welfare - General +11 more

FCFPP: Lindig Lewisburg Foundation Fund

First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania
Private
Union County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Lindig Lewisburg Foundation Fund, established by Charles F. Lindig, supports projects that enhance the religious, charitable, educational, cultural, recreational, or economic welfare of the Borough of Lewisburg. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and local government units. The fund emphasizes innovative solutions, measurable goals, and collaboration with other organizations. Ineligible requests include endowments, annual campaigns, and operating deficits. This initiative ensures community-driven projects receive essential funding to thrive.
Recreation Economic Services & Development Education +2 more

CFCM: Community Support Grants

Community Foundation of Central Missouri
Private
Adair County, Missouri, Audrain County, Missouri +8 more
US $500 - US $1,500
The Community Foundation of Central Missouri (CFCM) promotes community well-being through its Community Support Grants. Since 2010, CFCM has focused on addressing local needs by funding nonprofit projects in areas such as health, education, arts, and community improvement. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or local government entities serving central Missouri. CFCM seeks partnerships that align with its mission to enhance lives and foster sustainable community investments.
Environmental Conservation Human & Social Services Aging / Gerontology +18 more

FSCF: Community Development Grant

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Private
Redwood County, Minnesota
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The FSCF Community Development Grant, established in 1996, supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies serving the Five Star communities (Lucan, Seaforth, Vesta, Wabasso, and Wanda). The program focuses on projects that address community needs, enhancing education, wellness, and civic opportunities. Grants may be awarded annually, contingent on compliance with stipulations. Preference is given to projects that demonstrate long-term community benefits and promote volunteer involvement.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Art & Culture +5 more

FSCF: Mini Grant

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Private
Redwood County, Minnesota
Up to US $1,000
The FSCF Mini Grant program, established in 1996, supports five communities: Lucan, Seaforth, Vesta, Wabasso, and Wanda. Each year, up to $1,000 is awarded to one or two grants per community for projects that benefit residents. The brief application process allows for year-round submissions if fall allocations are unawarded. Grants focus on community development, promoting education, wellness, and civic opportunities, with a preference for projects that demonstrate long-term benefits and community engagement.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Art & Culture +5 more

Town of Granby Donor Advised Fund Grant

Grand Foundation
Private
Grand County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Town of Granby Donor Advised Fund Grant, facilitated by the Grand Foundation, supports local non-profits enhancing community welfare in arts, education, environment, health, and recreation. Established in 1996, the Grand Foundation has provided over $23.7 million in grants, focusing on projects with measurable impacts. This grant encourages operational funding requests, but typically not multi-year commitments. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under IRS regulations, fostering collaboration among agencies for effective community service.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +5 more

Northwest Neighborhoods Parks & Recreation Fund Grant

The Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Multnomah County, Oregon
US $3,500 - US $35,000
The Northwest Neighborhoods Parks & Recreation Fund Grant, managed by the Oregon Community Foundation, supports the capital development and renovation of parks and recreation facilities in northwest Portland. This initiative prioritizes projects within the Northwest District Association, Northwest Industrial Neighborhood Association, and Hillside Neighborhood Association. Grants typically range from $3,500 to $35,000, focusing on enhancing community recreation and fostering public/private collaboration.
Parks & Public Spaces Recreation Trail Creation & Maintenance

Northern Lowcountry Grants- Cooper River Bridge Run Grants Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The Northern Lowcountry Grants - Cooper River Bridge Run Grants Fund, established in 2006 by the Coastal Community Foundation, aims to enhance community health through physical activity. This fund specifically supports 501(c)(3) organizations serving Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties, promoting exercise initiatives that benefit local residents. Applications are accepted from organizations committed to fostering wellness and active lifestyles within the Tricounty area.
Physical Fitness Recreation

FEC Program Grants

Foundations of East Chicago
Corporate
Lake County, Indiana
Up to US $35,000
The Foundations of East Chicago provides annual program grants to support initiatives that enhance education, health, safety, and community enrichment. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) agencies in good standing. The grants focus on measurable outcomes and operational plans, prioritizing educational advancement, health awareness, and community safety. Notably, FEC does not fund speaker fees, conferences, landscaping, or general operational costs. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life in East Chicago by supporting impactful community programs.
Special Needs Education Nutrition & Healthy Eating Hospital Care +30 more

Community Investment Fund - Greenlee County (AZ)

Freeport-Mcmoran Copper & Gold Foundation
Corporate
Greenlee County, Arizona
Up to US $20,000
The Community Investment Fund in Greenlee County, AZ, is dedicated to fostering long-term community resilience through strategic collaborations. With a focus on education, economic opportunity, and capacity building, the fund supports initiatives that empower individuals and organizations to thrive. Projects must exceed $10,000 and align with the foundation's commitment to transformative change, ensuring that funding directly benefits local communities, enhancing their overall well-being and capacity to navigate economic challenges.
Teacher Development & Training Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +20 more

Community Investment Fund- Climax Area- Colorado & Henderson- Colorado

Freeport-Mcmoran Copper & Gold Foundation
Corporate
Chaffee County, Colorado, Clear Creek County, Colorado +4 more
Up to US $20,000
The Community Investment Fund by Freeport-McMoRan aims to enhance community resilience and well-being in various regions, including Climax (CO), Globe-Miami (AZ), and Henderson (CO). Prioritizing education, economic opportunity, and leadership capacity, this fund supports projects over $10,000 that directly benefit local communities. Eligible organizations must have 501c-3 status or equivalent. The initiative fosters transformative change through collaborative partnerships and strategic investments, addressing essential community needs and promoting sustainability.
Teacher Development & Training Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +20 more

Collaborative Capacity Program - Standard Grant: Community Partner Applicants

National Forest Foundation (NFF)
Private
United States
US $10,001 - US $75,000
The National Forest Foundation’s Collaborative Capacity Program offers financial awards to enhance collaboration among communities, tribes, and the Forest Service. Aimed at improving wildfire resilience and forest health, these grants support efforts that lead to long-term stewardship outcomes. Funding ranges from $10,001 to $75,000, with a 20% match required. The program seeks to empower local partners to develop strategic plans and strengthen collaborative initiatives, ultimately benefiting National Forest System lands.
Recreation Forestry Fire Ecology +1 more

Collaborative Capacity Program - Standard Grant: Tribal Applicants

National Forest Foundation (NFF)
Private
United States
US $20,000 - US $50,000
The National Forest Foundation’s Collaborative Capacity Program offers financial support to enhance collaboration among local communities and partners, focusing on improving wildfire resilience and forest health. Grants range from $10,001 to $75,000, with a 20% cash or in-kind match requirement. The program aims to foster long-term stewardship outcomes for National Forest System lands, ensuring benefits to both forests and local economies through collaborative efforts.
Recreation Forestry Fire Ecology +1 more

IronPigs Charities (IPC) Community Grant

Ironpigs Charities
Private
Lehigh County, Pennsylvania
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The IronPigs Charities Community Grant supports educational and recreational initiatives for youth in the Lehigh Valley. Established in 2007, IPC has donated over $1.2 million to local organizations. This annual grant application opens in the summer, with a November deadline, and grants are awarded the following January. Only non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible, excluding those with prior jersey auction proceeds. The grant cannot cover operational costs or fundraising expenses.
Recreation Youth Services Summer Camps

IronPigs Charities (IPC) Facility Improvement Grant

Ironpigs Charities
Private
Lehigh County, Pennsylvania
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The IronPigs Charities Facility Improvement Grant supports Lehigh Valley youth organizations by funding the construction, renovation, and enhancement of facilities. Established in 2007, IronPigs Charities has donated over $1.2 million to improve educational and recreational opportunities for children, especially those facing disabilities or economic challenges. This grant emphasizes the importance of maintaining these facilities post-renovation, ensuring they continue to serve the community effectively.
Recreation Youth Services Trail Creation & Maintenance

Henry Len DeFoor Charitable Trust Grant

Henry Len Defoor Charitable Tr
Private
Cherokee County, Georgia, Clayton County, Georgia +7 more
US $12,000
The Henry Len DeFoor Charitable Trust Grant offers funding to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations for enhancing small parks, playgrounds, and recreational centers in the metropolitan Atlanta area. Applications are accepted year-round, but must be submitted by May 30 for consideration at the annual meeting. The foundation prioritizes projects in Atlanta and Fulton County, while ensuring funds are used only for equipping facilities, not for salaries or replacing previously funded equipment.
Recreation Parks & Public Spaces Outdoor Equity

Great Fish Community Challenge Grant

Whitefish Community Foundation
Private
Flathead County, Montana
Up to US $20,000
The Great Fish Community Challenge Grant, organized by the Whitefish Community Foundation, aims to foster philanthropy and support local nonprofits. Launched in 2015, this matching grant program has raised over $28 million for more than 90 nonprofits by encouraging donors to contribute between August 8 and September 13. Each donation is matched up to a certain percentage, ensuring that nonprofits can participate without incurring costs, while enhancing community awareness and collaboration.
Animal Welfare - General Environment Environmental Conservation +7 more

WCF: Community Grant Program

Whitefish Community Foundation
Private
Flathead County, Montana
Up to US $10,000
The WCF Community Grant Program supports capital projects for small nonprofits in the Flathead Valley, enhancing community welfare. Prioritizing initiatives that demonstrate social need, this funding can help organizations gain recognition and possibly participate in the Great Fish Community Challenge. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or equivalent, benefiting local residents and addressing specific categories such as arts, health, and environment.
Art & Culture Environmental Conservation Environment +9 more

MPRPD Transportation Grants

Community Foundation for Monterey County
Private
Monterey County, California, San Benito County, California +1 more
US $500 - US $5,000
The MPRPD Transportation Grants, funded by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, aim to enhance access to recreational, environmental, and cultural education in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, schools, and public agencies that receive a Special Use Permit from MPRPD. The grants cover transportation-related costs for group visits to MPRPD parks, aligning with the mission to promote education and protect natural resources.
Recreation Environment Art & Culture +2 more

Impact Las Vegas Grant Program

Impact Las Vegas Foundation Inc
Private
Clark County, Nevada, Esmeralda County, Nevada +3 more
More than US $100,000
The Impact Las Vegas Grant Program provides substantial funding to nonprofits in Southern Nevada, focusing on initiatives that enhance culture, education, environment, family, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and serve the local community. Grants support projects with clear goals and measurable outcomes, while excluding funding for operational costs, individual grants, or political activities. The program aims to empower local nonprofits to create significant positive change within the community.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +10 more

Congregation Mini Grants

Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis
Corporate
Clinton County, Illinois, Franklin County, Missouri +10 more
Up to US $10,000

Lutheran School Mini Grants

The Foundation continues to encourage congregations to reach out to their surrounding communities through organized, effective social service outreach ministry efforts. We also recognize congregations are looking for innovative ways, outside the traditional social service outreach model, to build relationships and engage their communities.

We look to accomplish this in two ways:

  • Supporting congregations as they work to engage and serve their neighbors and community through planning and program implementation grants.
  • Strengthening the ability of congregations to engage in community engagement efforts through coaching assistance, mentoring, and training (through Send Me St. Louis).Examples of Possible Ministry Projects

Congregation Community Engagement is defined for this Funding Focus Area as activities, services, or efforts designed to reach out to others on a local level (St. Louis metropolitan region). Examples include both serving the immediate needs of people and efforts to engage and build relationships with the community. The focus is on bringing the care of Jesus Christ into the lives of hurting people in the community, rather than serving the congregation’s own members. This funding focus area is not meant to support “Word and Sacrament” activities.

  • Health care/mental health services
  • Fitness/healthy living programs
  • English as a second language
  • After-school mentoring/tutoring
  • Social activities for seniors
  • Community revitalization
  • Recreation activities
  • Home repair/beautification
  • Partnerships with local schools/other institutions
  • Social enterprise/business that benefits the community and/or creates space for relationships
  • One-time events (run by the congregation) to meet a need in the community

Idea Exploration

Congregations should know what they want to do and have an idea of how to get started. If you are not at this point, coaching services to assist your congregation are offered through Lutheran Foundation’s relationship with Send Me St. Louis. Services include coaching and guidance on:

  • mapping the congregation’s and community’s assets, 
  • researching opportunities for social service outreach ministry, and/or
  • planning for a social service outreach ministry.

There are no grant deadlines for the Congregation Mini Grants. Application can be made at any time of the year.

Human & Social Services Senior Services English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education +14 more

Impact100 DC Grant Program

Impact100 DC
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +6 more
US $100,000
The Impact100 DC Grant Program empowers women to support nonprofit organizations tackling systemic inequities in the Washington, DC area. As a volunteer collective, we have awarded over $550,000 since 2021, prioritizing projects in arts, education, health, and community welfare. We require a clear budget plan for the full $100,000 award and prioritize proposals from organizations that serve historically marginalized communities. Our goal is to foster sustainable change and promote equity across diverse demographics.
Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation Recreation +19 more

Impact 100 Greater Peninsula: Big Give Grant

Peninsula Community Foundation Of Virginia Inc
Private
Gloucester County, Virginia, Hampton City, Virginia +6 more
US $25,000 - US $50,000
Impact 100 Greater Peninsula is dedicated to empowering women to collectively improve their community through charitable giving. This initiative focuses on transformative grants that address the needs of underserved populations in the Greater Peninsula region. By fostering collaboration among nonprofits, it aims to enhance arts, education, health, and wellness, thereby creating measurable impacts. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a minimum budget of $250,000 and a proven track record of at least 36 months.
Art & Culture Education Vocational & Trade Education +18 more

SLCF Community Grants Program

Seeley Lake Community Foundation
Private
Missoula County, Montana
Up to US $3,000
The Seeley Lake Community Foundation (SLCF) offers the SLCF Community Grant Programs to support local initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Seeley Lake, MT. The foundation prioritizes projects in education, arts, community development, natural resources, and basic human needs. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve the community directly. The SLCF values proposals with broad community impact and strong partnerships, making it an ideal opportunity for collaborative projects.
Parks & Public Spaces Natural Resources Environmental Conservation +24 more

Paula Steinebach Trust Grant

Paula Steinbach T/W
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
US $2,500 - US $20,000
The Paula Steinebach Trust Grant aims to provide essential support to underprivileged and deserving children in Philadelphia. Established from the will of Ms. Steinebach, the trust distributes grants to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations focused on care, education, and recreation. With an average grant size ranging from $2,500 to $20,000, the foundation emphasizes equitable support for children of both Jewish and Gentile backgrounds, ensuring a lasting impact in the community.
Education Recreation Youth Services +2 more

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.

Filter Recreation Grants for Nonprofits

Browse Recreation Grants for Nonprofits by Location

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming American Samoa District of Columbia Guam Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico Virgin Islands Africa Haiti

Related Grant Funding Focus Areas

Browse Other Community Development & Economic Services Grants

Business Entrepreneurship Grants Community & Civic Engagement Grants Community Development Grants Community Services Grants Cycling Grants Economic Services Grants Grants for Community Centers Grants for International Development Grants for Veteran Nonprofit Organizations Human and Social Service Grants Leadership Development Grants Life Skills, Training & Rehabilitation Grants Playground Grants for Nonprofits Playgrounds Grants Poverty Alleviation Grants Social Services Grants Transportation Grants Travel and Tourism Grants Workforce Grants Workforce Preparation Job Readiness Grants

Browse More Local Grants

Local Grants by City

Life Skills, Training & Rehabilitation Grants in Raleigh, NC Cycling Grants in Wichita, KS Community Development Grants in Orlando, FL Community Services Grants in Louisville, KY Grants for Community Centers in Fayetteville, NC Cycling Grants in Chicago, IL Community Services Grants in Rapid City, SD Community Development Grants in Pocatello, ID Economic Services Grants in Milwaukee, WI Workforce Grants in Edison, NJ Travel and Tourism Grants in Merced, CA Life Skills, Training & Rehabilitation Grants in Columbia, SC