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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

Go Outside Fund

Natural Resources Foundation Of Wisconsin Inc
Private
Wisconsin
US $100 - US $1,500
The Go Outside Fund aims to connect Wisconsin's youth with nature by providing grants between $100 and $500 for outdoor learning experiences. Eligible applicants include public charities, governmental units, and accredited educational institutions. The fund prioritizes projects that engage children in outdoor activities, facilitating access to nature while aligning with educational standards. This initiative addresses the pressing need for children to spend more time outdoors, promoting both physical and mental health benefits.
Youth Services Outdoor Recreation Environmental Education

Friends of Outdoor Adventures Grant Program

North Valley Community Foundation
Private
Butte County, California
Up to US $1,000
The Friends of Outdoor Adventures Grant Program, offered by the North Valley Community Foundation, aims to support Butte County youths facing financial barriers to engage in outdoor activities. Eligible applicants include residents within 300% of the Federal Poverty Level and those displaced by natural disasters. The program provides crucial funding for school and independent programs like Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to participate in enriching outdoor experiences.
Youth Services Outdoor Recreation After School / Summer Educational Programs +1 more

SITKA: Ecosystem Grants

W.L. Gore & Associates Inc
Corporate
Canada, United States
US $3,000 - US $20,000
SITKA Ecosystem Grants support projects that enhance ecosystems and promote conservation efforts. These grants encourage both grassroots initiatives and larger organizational projects, aiming to improve habitat restoration, biodiversity, and the hunting experience. With funding ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, applicants must be 18 years or older and have relevant experience. The review process is ongoing, and projects should emphasize collaboration and measurable impacts on environmental goals, benefiting both society and ecosystems.
Environmental Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Natural Resources +8 more

Game On-Community Places to Play Initiative

Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Cook County, Illinois +8 more
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The Game On-Community Places to Play Initiative, led by The DICK’s Sporting Goods Foundation and LISC, offers grants ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 for community organizations to enhance youth sports facilities in under-resourced areas. This initiative focuses on improving safety, accessibility, and quality of athletic spaces for youth aged 6-24. Eligible applicants must have a proven track record in real estate development and ensure community access to the facilities.
Sports & Athletics Community Development & Revitalization Youth Development & Leadership +1 more

National Audubon Society – Hog Island Audubon Camp, Bremen, Maine

The City Garden Clubs of New York
Private
Lincoln County, Maine
US $1,525
The National Audubon Society's Hog Island Audubon Camp in Bremen, Maine, offers an immersive experience for educators seeking to enhance their environmental curriculum. Participants engage with nature through workshops focused on art, music, and citizen science, alongside field trips to observe wildlife. The program includes meals and housing, with a scholarship covering the tuition fee of $1,590. This unique opportunity fosters innovative teaching methods in a stunning natural setting.
Environmental Education Art & Culture Music +6 more

The NRA Foundation: Connecticut Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Connecticut
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation provides grants to support charitable purposes in line with IRS regulations for 501(c)(3) entities. Eligible applicants include recognized nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions. The Foundation aims to promote firearms safety, education, and research, while ineligible projects include commercial ventures, administrative costs, and deficit financing. Applications must demonstrate alignment with the Foundation's mission to foster shooting sports and related educational initiatives.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Delaware Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Delaware
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation in Delaware provides grants to eligible organizations that promote firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. Organizations must be recognized under IRS 501(c)(3) or be government entities. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission, which includes fostering charitable and educational activities related to the shooting sports. Ineligible applicants include labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals. Funding is determined solely by the Foundation, ensuring compliance with IRS regulations.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Florida Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Florida
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation supports the future of shooting sports through grants that fund educational and public service programs. Eligible organizations include IRS-recognized entities and government agencies, while applicants must not discriminate based on protected classes. Grants cannot be used for administrative costs or projects requiring NRA membership. The Foundation emphasizes public benefit in funded projects, fostering community engagement and safety in shooting sports.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Georgia Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Georgia (US state)
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Georgia Grants support charitable purposes under IRS guidelines, focusing on promoting firearms safety, education, and research. Eligible organizations include IRS recognized entities and government bodies, while ineligible groups range from labor organizations to individuals. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission and be accompanied by necessary documentation. This funding aims to enhance community engagement in shooting sports and safety education, fostering a responsible approach to firearms.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Hawaii Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Hawaii
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Hawaii Grants support charitable purposes as defined by IRS 501(c)(3) regulations. Eligible organizations include recognized nonprofits, government entities, and specific educational institutions. Ineligible groups comprise labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals. Grant funding promotes firearms safety, education in shooting sports, and related research. The foundation focuses on advancing the shooting sports and improving public understanding of firearms, fostering a safer environment for all.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Idaho Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Idaho
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Idaho Grants provide funding for charitable initiatives that promote firearms education, safety, and marksmanship. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities. Ineligible groups consist of labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals. Grant requests must align with the mission of fostering education and safety in the shooting sports. Funding amounts are determined solely by the Foundation, ensuring support for projects that align with their charitable objectives.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Illinois Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Illinois
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation provides funding for charitable purposes as defined under IRS section 501(c)(3). Eligible organizations include government entities and IRS-recognized nonprofits. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission, which promotes firearms safety, education, and research. Ineligible organizations include labor unions and private businesses. The Foundation aims to support programs that enhance public benefit, particularly in the shooting sports and related educational activities.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Indiana Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Indiana
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Indiana Grants supports projects and organizations focused on firearms education and safety. Grants are available for both 501(c)(3) and non-501(c)(3) entities, provided they serve a charitable purpose. The foundation emphasizes promoting safe firearms use and hunting, educating the public about firearms history, and conducting research to enhance safety techniques. Eligible entities must be recognized as nonprofits by their state or the IRS, while certain organizations, like labor groups and private enterprises, are ineligible.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Iowa Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Iowa
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation supports projects promoting shooting sports and firearm safety through grants. Eligible organizations must hold a Federal Employer Identification number and can include 501(c)(3) entities, government bodies, and state-recognized nonprofits. Grants fund educational programs and public service initiatives but exclude commercial ventures and personal benefits. The Foundation emphasizes inclusivity, requiring applicants to avoid discrimination based on age, race, or sex. Overall, the Foundation aims to enhance community engagement in shooting sports and education.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Kansas Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Kansas
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Kansas Grants supports charitable initiatives that promote firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized entities and government organizations. The Foundation emphasizes the importance of public benefit in grant requests, ensuring funds are used for educational purposes in line with their mission to foster shooting sports and safety. Ineligible projects include private enterprises and those seeking funding for fundraising activities.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Kentucky Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Kentucky
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Kentucky Grants provide funding to organizations that promote firearm safety, education, and marksmanship in line with charitable purposes defined by the IRS. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits, government entities, and state-recognized organizations. Ineligibility applies to labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals. The Foundation aims to foster educational and scientific initiatives within the shooting sports community, ensuring a commitment to safety and responsible firearm use.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Louisiana Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Louisiana
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation offers grants to support educational and public service programs related to shooting sports. Annually, volunteer committees raise funds, which are awarded to eligible nonprofit organizations for projects that promote firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. While 501(c)(3) status is not required for applicants, all grants must serve a 501(c)(3) purpose. This initiative aims to enhance community involvement and awareness in shooting sports and hunting safety.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Maine Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Maine
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation offers grants in Maine to support charitable purposes in line with IRS 501(c)(3) regulations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, government entities, and educational institutions with a valid EIN. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote firearms safety, education, and research in marksmanship. However, labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals are ineligible for funding. Grant requests must align with the foundation's mission and the application process requires specific documentation.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Maryland Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Maryland
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Maryland Grants support charitable purposes as defined by the IRS. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, and state-recognized nonprofits. The Foundation promotes firearms safety, education, and research, while aiming to enhance public benefit through community engagement in shooting sports and hunting. Ineligible entities include private businesses and individuals. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission to foster educational and charitable initiatives related to firearms and safety.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Massachusetts Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Massachusetts
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation offers grants in Massachusetts to support charitable purposes aligned with its mission. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits, government entities, and state-recognized organizations, while ineligible parties include labor organizations and individuals. The Foundation funds educational programs related to firearms safety and marksmanship, promoting responsible shooting sports and hunting safety. Grant requests must adhere to specific guidelines, ensuring support for activities that foster public well-being and community engagement.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Michigan Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Michigan
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Michigan Grants provides vital financial support for educational and public service programs related to shooting sports. The foundation focuses on promoting firearms safety, educating individuals about firearms history, and conducting research to enhance firearms safety techniques. Eligible organizations include government entities and recognized nonprofits, while discrimination based on protected characteristics is prohibited. This initiative aims to foster community engagement through grants that benefit youth and promote responsible firearm use.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Minnesota Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Minnesota
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Minnesota Grants aims to provide funding that aligns with its charitable mission under IRS regulations. Eligible organizations include IRS-recognized entities, government agencies, and state nonprofit organizations. The foundation supports projects that promote firearms safety, education, and research in shooting sports. However, labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals are not eligible for these grants. Proper documentation, such as IRS letters or state registrations, is required for application.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Mississippi Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Mississippi
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation offers financial support through its Grant Program, aimed at projects that promote firearms safety, shooting sports education, and research for improved marksmanship techniques. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized entities and government bodies. The foundation does not fund commercial ventures, administrative costs, or projects requiring NRA membership. Grants support educational programs related to firearms and public safety, fostering community engagement in shooting sports and hunting safety.
Outdoor Recreation Community / Public Safety Sport Shooting

The NRA Foundation: Texas Grants

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
Texas
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The NRA Foundation: Texas Grants support charitable initiatives that align with the foundation's mission to promote firearms safety, education, and research. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized entities, government bodies, and state-recognized nonprofits. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance public understanding of firearms and support shooting sports. Organizations not meeting the criteria, such as labor groups and private businesses, are ineligible. This grant fosters community engagement and safety in relation to firearms.
Community / Public Safety Outdoor Recreation Sport Shooting

Catherine Vincent Deardorf Charitable Foundation Grant

Catherine Vincent Deardorf Charitable Foundation
Private
Webster County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Catherine Vincent Deardorf Charitable Foundation Grant supports 501(c)3 organizations in Webster County, Iowa, emphasizing arts, education, and nature. Established in 1993, the foundation has allocated over $9 million to local projects. The grant prioritizes non-recurring initiatives that foster creativity and community collaboration. Applications are accepted six times a year, needing submission before the project's start. The foundation aims to enrich the community through innovative programs that benefit a diverse range of residents.
Library Services Music Education Writing & Literature +7 more

Michigan Coastal Management Program Grant

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
State/Local Government
Alcona County, Michigan, Alger County, Michigan +40 more
US $10,000 - US $100,000
The Michigan Coastal Management Program Grant aims to foster resilient coastal communities by funding projects that protect sensitive resources and promote biodiversity. With approximately $1,000,000 available, the grant encourages initiatives that enhance public access, mitigate coastal hazards, and support diversity and equity within communities. It emphasizes the importance of community engagement and technical training to address climate change impacts and improve resilience through innovative solutions.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Water Resource Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water +8 more

LaBounty Family Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Lake County, Minnesota
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The LaBounty Family Fund supports projects aimed at economic development in the Two Harbors area. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or have a qualified fiscal sponsor and serve the local community. The fund prioritizes initiatives that directly benefit the public, including business assistance, public land improvements, and social welfare projects. However, funding is not available for endowments, political activities, or individual requests, ensuring resources are directed towards community-enhancing efforts.
Economic Services & Development Entrepreneurship Human & Social Services +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.