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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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Filters

1,049 Results based on applied filters

BPCF: Small Grants

Bethel Park Community Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $500
The Bethel Park Community Foundation (BPCF) offers small grants up to $500 for community-benefiting initiatives. Applications must be submitted by the 2nd Thursday of the month for review. The foundation prioritizes projects in areas such as community facilities, education, recreational activities, arts exposure, and health and safety. Note that requests from the Bethel Park School District and Municipality, as well as those serving only one individual, are ineligible for funding.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Recreation +4 more

Rebecca Pomroy Foundation Grant

Rebecca Pomroy Foundation
Private
Middlesex County, Massachusetts
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Rebecca Pomroy Foundation provides annual grants to support charitable organizations that align with its mission to enhance community health, education, and recreation. With a focus on aiding girls, young women, and local community centers in Newton, Massachusetts, the Foundation welcomes applications for capital grants, operating support, and special projects. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with a total annual funding of around $120,000, promoting diversity and inclusion in the application process.
Women & Girl Services Health Care Access & Delivery Wellness & Healthy Living +2 more

Virginia Community Foundation Grants

Virginia Community Foundation
Private
St. Louis County, Minnesota
Up to US $10,000
The Virginia Community Foundation supports charitable projects that positively impact the greater Virginia area. Eligible organizations include 501c3 charities and public entities, with a focus on measurable results and community collaboration. Grant criteria emphasize sustainability and addressing community needs. The foundation does not fund individuals, political campaigns, or religious activities. Projects must be completed within 12 months of receiving funding, ensuring timely benefits for the community.
Community Development & Revitalization Greening & Beautification Art & Culture +5 more

Clovis Community Foundation Grants

Clovis Community Foundation
Private
Fresno County, California
Up to US $10,000
The Clovis Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations aimed at enhancing culture, arts, and recreation in Clovis. With a maximum award of $10,000, projects must directly benefit Clovis citizens and focus on capital facilities or programs. Eligible applicants must have a tax ID, submit a concise proposal, and include letters of support. The foundation emphasizes partnerships and aims to foster philanthropic efforts that enrich the community's quality of life.
Art & Culture Recreation

Waunakee Community Foundation Grants

Waunakee Community Foundation
Private
Dane County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Waunakee Community Foundation, established in 2004, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in the Waunakee area by funding impactful projects. This private foundation supports charitable, educational, scientific, recreational, and literary initiatives that address community needs and foster collaboration. Organizations serving the Greater Waunakee Area, especially within the school district, are encouraged to apply, provided they uphold non-discrimination principles.
Education Science Writing & Literature +2 more

Detailed Grant

Marion County Community Foundation
State/Local Government
Marion County, Iowa
More than US $3,000
The Marion County Community Foundation provides grants to enhance the quality of life for residents through innovative projects in health, education, culture, and heritage. It's particularly interested in proposals from coalitions of service providers and projects that benefit broad populations. Grants are not for annual budgets or completed projects, ensuring support goes to initiatives that create lasting impact and foster community growth.
Health & Medicine Education Community Culture & Heritage +4 more

Rhinelander Community Foundation Grants

Rhinelander Community Foundation
Private
Oneida County, Wisconsin
Up to US $5,000
The Rhinelander Community Foundation Grants aim to strengthen community organizations in the Rhinelander area by providing financial support for innovative projects. Grants are available for charitable organizations, educational institutions, and local units that benefit the public. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors, fostering collaboration and partnership. With grants up to $5,000, the Foundation is committed to sustaining the vibrancy of the Rhinelander community through philanthropy.
Community Services Art & Culture Recreation +1 more

CFJH Competitive Grants

The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole
Private
Teton County, Wyoming
US $3,000 - US $30,000
The CFJH Competitive Grants program, managed by The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, supports essential community needs in Teton County, Wyoming. Annually, it allocates between $650,000 and $750,000 to eligible nonprofit organizations, allowing funding requests from $3,000 to $30,000 for various programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities. The program prioritizes proposals that address critical community issues and deliver substantial benefits.
Art & Culture Education Environment +4 more

Upper Arlington Community Foundation Good Neighbor Fund Grant

Upper Arlington Community Foundation
Private
Franklin County, Ohio
Up to US $3,000
The Upper Arlington Community Foundation's Good Neighbor Fund Grant provides emergency financial assistance of up to $3,000 for Upper Arlington residents facing unforeseen circumstances that threaten their stability. Established in 2017, this fund acts as a crucial safety net, ensuring that individuals can access support for urgent needs like living expenses, utilities, and medical fees. The grants committee evaluates applications based on sustainability and collaboration, aiming to foster ongoing community support.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine Environmental Conservation +4 more

Warren County Community Foundation Grant: Under $2,500

Warren County Community Foundation
State/Local Government
Warren County, Indiana
Up to US $2,500
The Warren County Community Foundation offers grants of $2,500 or less to support community-focused projects in Warren County, Indiana. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and civic groups. Grant proposals are reviewed monthly, with emphasis on education, human services, recreation, and more. Projects must address significant community needs and utilize local resources. This initiative aims to foster impactful improvements and innovation within the community, while ensuring inclusivity and feasibility.
Education Human & Social Services Recreation +4 more

KCCF: Community Fund Grants

Kosciusko County Community Foundation Inc
Private
Kosciusko County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The KCCF Community Fund Grants support nonprofit organizations in Kosciusko County across seven focus areas, including education, health, recreation, arts & culture, civic projects, the environment, and human services. Eligible applicants must provide an IRS Determination Letter if they are a 501(c)(3) organization. This funding opportunity aims to enhance community welfare and foster development in critical sectors.
Art & Culture Human & Social Services Civic Affairs +4 more

Community Health Foundation: Responsive Grants

Community Health Foundation
Corporate
Champaign County, Ohio, Clark County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Community Health Foundation provides responsive grants to nonprofit organizations in Clark and Champaign Counties, Ohio, focusing on health and wellness initiatives. With a mission to preserve reproductive services and promote health equity, the foundation aims to reduce health disparities through diverse funding types, including program, project, and operating support. Grants are awarded annually to support programs addressing children's health, chronic disease management, maternal and infant health, and mental health services, fostering a healthier community for all.
Smoking Physical Fitness Nutrition & Healthy Eating +18 more

IWCF Pool-Fund Grant

Idaho Women's Charitable Foundation
Private
Ada County, Idaho, Adams County, Idaho +8 more
US $20,000 - US $35,000
The IWCF Pool-Fund Grant, established by the Idaho Women’s Charitable Foundation, focuses on empowering women through collaborative philanthropy. Since its inception in 2001, the foundation has contributed over $3.3 million to more than 140 local projects across Southwestern Idaho. The grant supports nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies addressing critical community needs in various sectors, including health, education, and the environment, with a goal of fostering sustainable solutions.
Visual Arts Performing Arts Folk Art / Traditional Art +35 more

Northern New York Community Foundation: Grants for Good

Northern New York Community Foundation
Private
Jefferson County, New York, Lewis County, New York +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Northern New York Community Foundation offers grants to support diverse programs addressing regional needs, including human services, health, arts, education, and environmental conservation. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties can apply. The Foundation evaluates proposals quarterly, with requests of $5,000 or less potentially approved at the committee level, while larger requests require Board review. Applicants will receive notification of award decisions after Board meetings.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine Education +7 more

Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation: Community Grants

Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan
Private
Sullivan County, New York
More than US $250
The Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation provides community grants aimed at supporting youth initiatives in the Town of Rockland. Established by diamond merchant Lazare Kaplan in 1965, the foundation focuses on educational scholarships and community programs. With an emphasis on aiding local organizations, it seeks to enhance after-school activities and recreational facilities. Grant amounts start at $250, and the foundation has positively impacted over 1,500 students through its funding efforts.
Youth Services After School / Summer Educational Programs Vocational & Trade Education +5 more

La Crescent Community Foundation General Grants

La Crescent Community Foundation
Private
Houston County, Minnesota, Winona County, Minnesota
Up to US $50,000
The La Crescent Community Foundation, established in 1995, aims to enhance the quality of life in the La Crescent area through targeted grants. It supports various community projects, including park improvements and educational initiatives, while prioritizing organizations that uphold non-discrimination policies. The Foundation's grants focus on local needs, with a preference for applications from schools and local government agencies. Recent efforts include funding for a new event center, demonstrating a commitment to community development.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +22 more

Crail-Johnson Foundation - Human Services Grants

Crail-Johnson Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Unspecified amount
The Crail-Johnson Foundation primarily supports nonprofit organizations that benefit children, youth, and families in the greater Los Angeles area. Grants focus on human services, education, and health, with priority given to communities in specific Los Angeles County Service Planning Areas. The Foundation does not fund religious activities, university education, or individual requests, and typically limits grants to one year, with no more than three consecutive years of support.
Homelessness Services Food Delivery & Distribution Services Child Welfare Services +7 more

Cooper Foundation Grant Program

Madison Alexander Cooper and Martha Roane Cooper Foundation
Private
McLennan County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Cooper Foundation Grant Program aims to enhance the quality of life in Waco, Texas, by providing funding to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Potential applicants are encouraged to submit a Grant Inquiry and consult with Foundation staff to ensure their proposals align with funding priorities. The Foundation supports projects in education, health, arts, culture, and social services, emphasizing community impact and collaboration.
Tourism Greening & Beautification Health Care Access & Delivery +7 more

SYBCIF Capital and Program Grants

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation
Private
San Luis Obispo County, California, Santa Barbara County, California +1 more
Up to US $10,000
The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation, established in 2005, aims to enhance community well-being through grants focusing on five key areas: Community Enhancement, Culture, Education, Health, and Native American Interests. Its competitive grant process supports organizations that benefit Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo Counties. The Foundation prioritizes projects that promote environmental preservation, cultural appreciation, educational access, health services, and Native American culture, ensuring no discrimination in its funding practices.
Civic Engagement & Education Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation +22 more

Donor Advised Funds: Town of Winter Park Grant

Grand Foundation
Private
Grand County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Donor Advised Funds grant from the Town of Winter Park aims to enhance the quality of life in Grand County by supporting non-profit organizations. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt entities under the IRS code and other groups demonstrating need. The grant will not fund political campaigns or projects completed prior to the award. Collaborative requests are encouraged, and applicants must submit progress reports to qualify for funding. Decisions will be made by the end of the year.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +3 more

DICK'S Sporting Goods' Sponsorships & Donations Program

Dick's Sporting Goods Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $25,000
DICK'S Sporting Goods offers a Sponsorships & Donations Program aimed at supporting youth sports leagues and organizations. They prioritize requests that promote community engagement and character development through sports. Eligible organizations must operate in areas with a DICK'S store and adhere to anti-discrimination policies. The program evaluates requests monthly, with sponsorships up to $25,000 and donations up to $250. Support may include gift certificates or coupons for teams and events, fostering an inclusive sports culture.
Recreation

Pendleton Foundation Trust: Community Based Grants

Pendleton Foundation Trust
Private
Umatilla County, Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Pendleton Foundation Trust offers community-based grants aimed at enhancing civic and educational initiatives in Pendleton. The foundation supports projects that promote the well-being of residents, focusing on tangible improvements and encouraging collaboration with local merchants. Eligible applicants include registered nonprofits and government subdivisions, while past recipients must have completed prior projects to qualify. Notably, funds cannot be utilized for general operating expenses, ensuring resources directly benefit the community.
Education Recreation Science +4 more

Deerfield Charitable Trust Grant

Deerfield Charitable Trust
Private
Tioga County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Deerfield Charitable Trust, established in 2010, supports charitable, scientific, literary, educational, and religious endeavors in Northern Tioga County, Pennsylvania. It prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that promote health, wellness, and the arts. Founded by Edwin A. and Jane E. Glover, the trust reflects their commitment to community service and cultural enrichment, inspired by their passions for local history and education.
Health & Medicine Wellness & Healthy Living Education +7 more

CFTV Competitive Grants Program

Community Foundation of Teton Valley
Association/Society
Teton County, Idaho, Teton County, Wyoming
Up to US $5,000
The Community Foundation of Teton Valley's Competitive Grants Program aims to enhance community welfare through generous funding for nonprofits. This initiative supports diverse projects across arts, education, environment, and social services, prioritizing those that directly benefit Teton County, Idaho and Alta, Wyoming. Eligible organizations must adhere to IRS regulations and demonstrate a commitment to community-oriented objectives. With a focus on impactful programming, the foundation encourages innovative proposals that foster sustainable growth and community engagement.
Environment Art & Culture Animal Welfare - General +7 more

Hudson Community Foundation- Community Grants

Hudson Community Foundation
Private
Summit County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Hudson Community Foundation offers competitive community grants to enhance the quality of life in Hudson, Ohio. Since 2000, over $500,000 has been awarded to support nonprofit organizations in various areas, including art, culture, historical preservation, social services, and youth education. The foundation aims to address current community needs while anticipating future challenges, making strategic investments for lasting impact.
Education - K through 12 Recreation Art & Culture +5 more

Nike Community Impact Fund - Portland Metro, Ore.

Nike Foundation
Corporate
Benton County, Oregon, Clackamas County, Oregon +8 more
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Nike Community Impact Fund in Portland Metro, Oregon, empowers local organizations to drive positive change through grants. This employee-led initiative focuses on inclusive, active communities, supporting youth to reach their potential. With a volunteer committee providing local insights, eligible organizations can apply for funding to enhance community engagement and make play accessible for all. By investing in grassroots efforts, Nike aims to create lasting impact in the neighborhoods where its employees live and work.
Recreation Sports & Athletics

George F. and Sybil H. Fuller Foundation Grant

George F. and Sybil H. Fuller Foundation
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The George F. and Sybil H. Fuller Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Worcester and Boylston, Massachusetts, focusing on youth services for ages 0-22. The foundation welcomes unsolicited proposals for various projects, including capital campaigns, educational programs, and healthcare initiatives. However, it does not fund individuals, endowments, or large multi-year capital grants. Organizations seeking support must align with the foundation's interests in culture, education, and social services.
Education - Higher Education Recreation Youth Development & Leadership +7 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.

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