Best Youth Sports Grants in Utah

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP)

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is a competitive grant program operated by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) in which funding from the United States Department of Agriculture is awarded to eligible applicants to support Utah’s specialty crop industry. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture — including nursery crops, and more. Complete list of eligible specialty crops.

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to enhance the competitiveness of Utah-grown specialty crops and benefit more than one producer or organization.

Award Funding

UDAF is anticipating receiving between $300,000 and $350,000 to have available to be awarded. Individual project requests may not exceed $100,000. There is no request minimum.

This year, priority will be placed on projects that focus on:

• Strengthening the supply chain (including aggregation, distribution, storage, processing, and developing food hubs)
• Improving market access (including marketing, consumer education, and developing local, international, and institutional markets)
• Research and development (including developing new seed or plant varieties, pest & disease management, and conservation practices)
• Producer education and workforce development
• Enhancing food safety and regulatory compliance

Utah State Board of Education

The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) is a constitutionally established, elected, partisan body that exercises general control and supervision over the public education system in Utah, including establishing the state educational core standards, state educator licensing policies, and state high school graduation requirements.

Education Innovation Program

Under House Bill (H.B) 386: Education Innovation Program (Utah State Legislature), individual classrooms can apply to their Local Education Agency (LEA) to approve an alternative classroom schedule or alternative curriculum and award up to $5,000 per class for the school year. All approvals are done at the local level, however; ULEAD can assist in developing a monitoring plan and collects evidence concerning the innovation after the class is complete. ULEAD can assist those applying to their LEA to formulate their plan, can advise on monitoring components, and serves as a pass through for approved plans from the LEA to access the financial awards. 

Types of Innovation Programs

Under H.B. 386, LEAs may approve alternative classroom schedules or alternative curriculum.

Alternative Classroom Schedule means a classroom schedule that is different than the schedule followed by other classrooms in the applicable school or LEA. Proposals may include options for different requirements of provisions for length of attendance for in-person, virtual, or hybrid instruction.

Alternative Curriculum means curriculum in one or more subject areas that is based on standards that are different than the standards adopted by the state board and applicable to the regular curriculum offered in the subject area(s) in the applicable school or LEA. In elementary school this includes English, mathematics, science, or history and social science. An innovation program application that proposes an alternative curriculum may include a proposal for a different curriculum or an innovative delivery of curriculum.

Innovative program proposals may include an alternative schedule or alternative curriculum, or proposals may include both.

Utah Grazing Improvement Program

In 2006, the Rangeland Improvement Act (HB145) established Utah’s Grazing Improvement Program (GIP) to provide cost-share grants for projects that improve rangeland management and sustainability. It also guided the formation of State and Regional Grazing Advisory Boards to strengthen the voices of producers utilizing Utah’s rangelands.

Grants are available to livestock producers operating in the State that graze cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. Project examples include water developments, fencing, and vegetation treatments.

Every Kindness is a Gift

Dollar Tree Gift Card Program 2026

Every Kindness is a Gift is a gift card grant program made possible through the generosity of Dollar Tree and managed by the team here at Gift Card Bank. We are a nonprofit organization that specializes in the distribution of gift cards and our mission is to improve well-being and build financial stability by supporting people through their time of need.

Through Every Kindness is a Gift, nonprofit organizations and Title I schools located in the 48 contiguous states may apply to receive a grant of Dollar Tree gift cards.

Gift cards received through these grants are meant to be distributed directly to individuals and families in need. A primary goal of the program is to give gift card recipients the dignity of choice by empowering them to shop for what they need themselves. By putting gift cards directly in the hands of our neighbors in need, we are able to increase access to essentials like food, school supplies, paper products, cleaning products, and hygiene items.

In 2026, there will be two rounds of grant distributions. In each round, we will award a number of grants between $2,500 and $10,000.

Round One is a summer distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round One will arrive in late June, while kids are on break and back-to-school is around the corner. Round Two is a holiday distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round Two will arrive in early November, as the end-of-year holidays approach.

We know that these are times of year when budgets are tight. Through these gift card grants, we hope to connect individuals and families directly to the essential resources they need during difficult months.

About Us

Utah became the first state in the nation to consolidate employment and public assistance programs by creating Utah Department of Workforce Services in 1997. Today, more than 2,200 Workforce Services employees assist individuals in preparing for and finding jobs, meeting workforce needs of Utah businesses, administering temporary assistance, and providing economic data and analysis.

Through a collaborative approach, the department has served millions of Utahns and has become a leader on several statewide initiatives. These include intergenerational poverty, homelessness, affordable housing, supporting refugees, helping rural communities, serving veterans and individuals with disabilities, and getting Utahns trained and back to work.

Emergency Food (EFN/QEFAF) Grants

The Emergency Food Network (EFN) is a grant program for non-profit 501(c)(3) agencies and local government programs including emergency food pantries, food banks, prepared meal sites, and others whose primary mission is to meet the emergency food needs of low-income Utahns. EFN funds are distributed statewide through the State of Utah, Department of Workforce Services, Housing and Community Development Division, State Community Services Office (SCSO) to eligible entities. EFN funds may be used by eligible entities for costs of providing emergency food services including operations, transportation, supplies (excluding food or other commodities directly distributed to clients), equipment capacity building, technical assistance and staffing.

The Qualified Emergency Food Agency Fund (QEFAF) is also a state-funded competitive grant available to qualified emergency food agencies in Utah. The application to be a qualified emergency food agency is included within the grant application.

Eligible activities under the QEFAF grant include activities related to:

• Warehousing food and food ingredients.
• Distributing food and food ingredients to other agencies and organizations providing food and food ingredients to low-income persons.
• Providing food and food ingredients directly to low-income persons.

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services offers Civil Money Penalty (CMP) funds for projects that enhance the welfare of nursing home residents. These funds aim to improve care quality and life standards, with applications accepted anytime. Eligible organizations include advocacy groups, councils, and certified long-term care facilities. However, funds cannot be used for compliance-related costs or extend beyond three years. For detailed guidelines, refer to the CMP funds usage documentation.

The Slave 2 Nothing Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing human trafficking and substance abuse in states with In-N-Out Burger locations. Their mission is to empower individuals to overcome enslavement by providing essential resources and support. The foundation follows a rigorous vetting process for grant applications, emphasizing the importance of impactful solutions and community engagement. They encourage eligible nonprofits to apply annually, promoting sustainable support for vital services aimed at healing and freedom.

The Hospital Response Team Grant Program (HRT) provides essential funding from the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice to support coordinated, victim-centered responses for sexual assault survivors. This program enhances collaboration among hospitals, law enforcement, and mental health providers, ensuring comprehensive care and advocacy for victims during medical examinations and beyond. By fostering partnerships, the HRT Grant aims to improve victim safety, access to services, and the overall effectiveness of multidisciplinary response systems in Utah.

The WGPF: Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program celebrates and promotes local folklore, legends, and folklife as vital aspects of cultural heritage. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities across 14 US states, it aims to enhance cultural tourism by commemorating community stories. Successful applications typically focus on folktales, historical legends, and community traditions, while excluding purely literary works or personal folklore that lacks broader community significance.

The Utah Boating Recreation Grant provides funding to improve public boating access, safety, and infrastructure across Utah’s waterways. This program is funded by Utah boating registration fees and dedicated state funds to improving recreational boating opportunities.

As Utah’s population grows and water levels fluctuate and change because of drought, demand for safe and reliable boating access continues to increase. The UBRG helps communities maintain and improve access points, reduce congestion and support safe recreation on Utah's lakes, rivers and reservoirs. Funding may be used for projects that improve boating access, infrastructure, shoreline protection and on-the-water safety.

KeyBank's Community Grants support tax-exempt organizations that align with the Foundation's funding priorities, focusing on improving community well-being. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, eligible organizations must have an operating budget of at least $100,000 and a minimum of three years in operation. The application process is invitation-only, requiring interested organizations to submit an Expression of Interest for review, typically receiving feedback within 90 days.

The General Operating Support (GOS) Grant is a two-year funding opportunity for nonprofit organizations and municipal governments in Utah focused on the arts or public museums. This grant helps supplement general operating revenue, with varying funding limits based on organizational revenue. Eligible organizations can apply through a full or simplified application process, depending on their budget. A minimum 1:1 cash match is required for all grants.

The Sundt Foundation, established in 1999, supports local communities by offering grants and volunteer opportunities for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Focused on youth development, hunger and nutrition, and veteran services, the Foundation prioritizes projects in regions such as the Southwest and Southeast United States. However, they do not fund requests exceeding $25,000 or support multi-year pledges, fundraising events, or political causes. Their mission continues to foster community connections and belonging.

Key Bank Philanthropic Support - Community Sponsorships aims to enhance community welfare by providing financial backing to nonprofit organizations. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, these sponsorships focus on fundraising events and operational support for initiatives that foster economic inclusion and community growth. Applications are accepted from January to October, with decisions typically made within 90 days, ensuring timely support for impactful local projects.

The Shigeo and Winifred Ito Scholarship Fund, established by a former recipient of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawaii pursuing higher education on the U.S. mainland. With awards averaging around $6,000, the fund prioritizes residents demonstrating financial need and maintaining good academic standing. The scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and giving back to the community, ensuring that deserving students can achieve their academic goals.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints make up a diverse community of people around the world with a shared faith in God and His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ showed us that faith is more than a belief. When we put our faith into action and follow Christ’s example in all that we do, He can bring more joy and peace into our lives. This is the mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Utah Area Humanitarian Operations

Relieve Suffering – Instill Hope – Build Self-Reliance

Humanitarian Strategy

Across the Utah Area, many individuals and families are facing significant and growing challenges. We are deeply grateful for the many compassionate community leaders and dedicated organizations working to relieve suffering, instill hope, and build stability and self-reliance.

Starting in 2026, we are elevating and focusing our humanitarian activities by prioritizing a set of targeted initiatives – population-specific initiatives and service gap initiatives. These initiatives are designed to strengthen community support and make the greatest possible difference for those who need it most.

We will:

• Focus on vulnerable populations
• Address critical gaps hindering holistic service delivery
• Strengthen coordination between service providers
• Prioritize ‘catalytic’ projects that improve self-reliance
• Promote long-term outcome tracking

We will also collaborate with community organizations on a limited number of non-initiative projects. Tracking of specific outcomes aligned with Utah Area priorities – especially Housing and Food – will be required.

Population-Specific Initiatives

Workforce Development for Refugees & Immigrants

• Need: Growing risk of homelessness and negative family impacts due to high housing prices and a decline in government support
• Goal: Work with employers, refugee services, and education providers to offer credentialing, job placement, and wrap-around service support without destabilizing income
• Desired Outcome: Measurable increase in the number of refugees and immigrants earning sustainable living wages and retaining housing

Transitional Housing for Domestic Violence Victims and Homeless Youth

• Need: Severe shortage of service-rich housing that could prevent future homelessness and enable long-term recovery
• Goal: Support experienced organizations in quickly expanding transitional housing and wraparound services through affordable renovation projects
• Desired Outcome: Long-term retention of housing, income growth, and improvement in well-being and self-reliance indicators as assessed by case workers

Service Gap Initiatives

• Social Worker Workforce Expansion: We will collaborate with community organizations to provide scholarships, stipends, and employee retention support for current and prospective social workers to fill growing gaps in high-quality staff who provide wrap-around services and track outcomes.

• Pre- and Post-Homeless Community Support: We will collaborate with community organizations to establish ongoing follow-up support through case workers or volunteers after diversion or exit from shelter, with a focus on preventing a return to homelessness and long-term outcome tracking.

• Case Manager Support for Food Pantries: We will collaborate with community organizations to expand case management in high-volume food pantries to create a stronger funnel to needed wrap-around services and to better track progress towards self-reliance.

Humanitarian projects in the Utah Area follow a one-year cycle. Implementing organizations have up to 12 months to complete the project, beginning on the date the Church approves the project. Organizations receiving a humanitarian donation from the Utah Area are expected to help beneficiaries progress towards greater self-reliance. This includes connecting individuals with community resources and monitoring and reporting their progress. Organizations are expected to track and report outcomes and engage with collaborating organizations in an integrated systems/services model for project beneficiaries.

Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

Recognizing the growing importance of outdoor recreation to Utah’s economy and quality of life, the Utah State Legislature established the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation in 2022. As part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, the division unites the nation’s first Office of Outdoor Recreation with key state programs, including Utah’s Boating Program, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, and outdoor recreation grants and planning. We also work collaboratively with DNR's Division of Law Enforcement Rangers.

Dedicated to fostering a healthy and active lifestyle for all Utahns, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation focuses on four key areas: expanding recreational access, promoting safety and education, ensuring responsible stewardship and sustainable visitation, and driving economic growth through outdoor recreation.

Youth Engagement Grants

The Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) and Outdoor Classroom Grants provide high-quality, outdoor-focused learning experiences to youth ages 6-18 in Utah. This funding aims to teach youth the physical skills that can make outdoor recreation part of a healthy and active lifestyle. UCORE complements the state’s Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Initiative and hopes to provide more opportunities so no child is left inside.

The Youth Engagement Grants include the Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) Grants and the Outdoor Classroom Grants. These two grants provide much needed funding for schools, cities, counties, tribes and non-profits to fund programing as well as outdoor learning spaces.The goals of the grants are to:

• Empower Youth
• Connect Students with Nature
• Teach New Skills
• Foster Stewardship

Projects applying for UCORE or Outdoor Classroom funds should tie into one or more activities included in the Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Adventure Challenge, which is a year-long effort to provide free, outdoor opportunities to families, schools and after-school programs.  

UCORE and The Outdoor Classroom grant will have two unique applications.

Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) Grants

Activities Eligible for UCORE

Nature Discovery; Outdoor Adventures; Trail Activities; Water Sports; Winter Sports.

Skill building for some activities is best begun in a controlled environment before youth are ready to practice their skills in a natural or outdoor environment. For example, it may be necessary to teach basic skills for horseback riding in an enclosed corral or rock climbing in a climbing gym before moving the activity into the natural environment. A program is eligible as long as skill building progresses and ends with youth in nature.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The SelectHealth Awards Program offers a $5,000 cash award to organizations in Idaho, Utah, and Clark County, Nevada that enhance community well-being. This program seeks to support initiatives addressing social determinants of health, improving mental well-being, and reducing health disparities. Applicants need not be nonprofits but must demonstrate alignment with health priorities. Past recipients must wait two years before reapplying. For more information, visit selecthealth.org.

The Utah Medical Association Grant provides financial support for projects that enhance education for healthcare professionals, improve treatment facilities, and promote public health initiatives aimed at disease prevention in Utah. Examples of funded projects include health education programs, immunization campaigns, and community health clinics. This grant is available exclusively to 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on detailed proposals for specific projects that benefit Utah residents.

The XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Robanna Fund, established in 1992 by Robert and Deanna Levy, supports students pursuing careers in healthcare. Administered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the fund awards scholarships averaging $6,000, depending on various factors such as the number of qualified applicants and donor preferences. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, reside in Hawai‘i, intend to major in a health-related field, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to cultivate future healthcare professionals in the community.