Best Youth Sports Grants in Utah

Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of Utah’s economy, generating over $9.5 billion annually, supporting 72,000 jobs, and fueling the state’s thriving tourism industry. It also contributes $737 million in state and local tax revenue while providing $4.3 billion in wages and salaries.

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.

OHV Recreation Grant - Trail Work

Utah takes great pride in its extensive off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail system, spanning over 80,000 miles and covering various trail networks throughout the state. This remarkable achievement is made possible through collaboration with city, county, nonprofit, state, and federal partners. Among these vast trails, approximately 1,200 miles are groomed complexes, forming Utah’s 17 snowmobile complexes. To support the growth and maintenance of the OHV program, an annual allocation of $3.5 million from OHV registration funds is designated to the Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) OHV Program.

Trail work remains the primary focus of this grant, supporting projects such as the construction, enhancement, operation, acquisition, and maintenance of publicly owned or administered OHV facilities, including infrastructure. This includes the development and restoration of trailside and trailhead facilities, the acquisition and leasing of trail construction and maintenance equipment, as well as assessments of trail conditions for accessibility and upkeep.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The State of Utah Community Development Block Grant program provides grants to cities of fewer than 50,000 people and counties of fewer than 200,000.

The CDBG program is authorized under Title 1 of the Housing & Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (HCDA). The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is responsible for monitoring the state of Utah to ensure compliance with CDBG program requirements. Applicants should be aware that, if funded, they must comply with various federal regulations including Davis-Bacon Labor standards and the environmental regulations found at 24 CFR Part 58.

The purpose of the small cities program is "to assist in developing viable communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate incomes."

About Us

Established by the Utah Legislature in February 1986. The mission of the Utah Office for Victims of Crime is to advocate for the rights and needs of crime victims in Utah by assisting in their restoration through financial compensation and other victim services. 

Utah Sexual Assault Program (USAP)

The Utah Office for Victims of Crime has been designated as the pass-through agency for the sexual assault service funds allocated by the Utah Legislature.

The purpose of state-awarded sexual assault funding is to support organizations dedicated to providing critical services to victims of rape and sexual assault across Utah. This funding is designed to strengthen Rape Crisis Centers, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs, state designated coalitions, and culturally specific programs that address the unique needs of diverse communities. By enhancing these essential services, the funding ensures victims receive the support, care, and advocacy they need to heal and recover.

The funding cycle spans 12 months, commencing on July 1 and concluding on June 30 of the following year. Funding announcements are typically provided between January and March of each year. 

The Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The Willard L. Eccles Charitable Foundation focuses on improving the well-being of individuals in Utah and the Intermountain West. Established in the early 1980s, it has contributed over $40 million to non-profits in various sectors including education, healthcare, and environmental preservation. The Foundation particularly favors projects that simultaneously address multiple areas of interest, with a strong emphasis on healthcare initiatives for underserved populations.

About Us

Established by the Utah Legislature in February 1986. The mission of the Utah Office for Victims of Crime is to advocate for the rights and needs of crime victims in Utah by assisting in their restoration through financial compensation and other victim services. 

Utah Victim Services Program (UVSP)

The Utah Office for Victims of Crime has been designated as the pass-through agency for the other victim services funds allocated by the Utah Legislature.

The purpose of this funding is to ensure that core services for all crime victims are available throughout the state, more specifically in the areas of criminal justice victim advocacy programs, legal services for crime victims, and programs that assist underserved victims of crime. 

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The Cambia Health Foundation / Paula A. Jones Endowed Scholarship supports students from underrepresented communities in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Utah. This scholarship is aimed at those pursuing careers in health care, particularly individuals from rural areas and diverse backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are open until March 1, 2025, and can be submitted through the OSAC portal.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Society for Northwestern Vertebrate Biology (SNVB) offers scholarships of up to $1500 for two students conducting vertebrate research in Northwestern North America. Eligible applicants include undergraduate, masters, and PhD students who are enrolled in accredited institutions and members of SNVB. The scholarships cover research-related expenses such as travel and supplies. Preference is given to proposals from local institutions, and only one award is granted per applicant each year.

The Region 4 Technology Improvement Projects Award Year 5 aims to enhance access to health information resources through technology improvement projects. It encourages innovative solutions to improve health literacy in underserved communities, aligning with the NNLM mission and the NLM 2017-2027 Strategic Plan. Project ideas include creating community networks for digital resource access, improving Wi-Fi availability in low-income areas, and providing health information workstations to address the digital divide and promote health equity.

The Susan Ekdale Field Camp Scholarship supports women geoscience students attending mandatory field camps. This scholarship assists with costs such as equipment, tuition, books, travel, or childcare. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a Utah institution or be a Utah resident studying elsewhere. Named in honor of Susan Ekdale, this scholarship aims to empower women in the field of geoscience by alleviating financial burdens during their education.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Rocky Mountain Power Foundation supports arts and culture organizations through grants typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, with a focus on enhancing community vitality. Eligible organizations include nonprofits dedicated to performing arts, visual arts, and historic preservation. The foundation operates on a quarterly grant cycle, ensuring careful review of applications. Grants are limited to tax-exempt organizations, and the foundation does not fund projects outside its service areas in Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, and California.

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation offers Utah Education Innovation Grants aimed at enhancing K-12 educational outcomes through innovative approaches. These grants support programs focused on mental health, early childhood education, technology, and workforce development. Organizations with a 501c3 designation in Utah can apply, but must ensure long-term sustainability of funded projects. This initiative aligns with Intermountain Health’s mission to foster healthier communities and improve access to quality education.

The Western SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports education and outreach for agricultural professionals. Aimed at enhancing knowledge in sustainable agriculture, it provides funding for projects that train educators and farmers through workshops, conferences, and digital media. With a focus on the environmental, economic, and social aspects of agriculture, projects can last up to three years and receive up to $100,000 in funding. This initiative fosters a 'train the trainer' approach to improve agricultural practices.

The Western SARE Farmer/Rancher Grants support agricultural producers in developing innovative, sustainable practices through research and outreach. Eligible applicants include farmers or ranchers who collaborate with technical advisors to implement projects focused on addressing specific agricultural needs. Grants can provide funding up to $25,000 for 1-2 producers and up to $29,900 for larger collaborations. The program aims to enhance profitability, environmental quality, and community well-being while sharing knowledge among producers.

The Western SARE Professional + Producer Grant Program fosters collaboration between Agricultural Technical Advisors and Producers to promote sustainable agriculture through research and outreach. This initiative aims to improve environmental quality, enhance profitability for farmers, and ensure community well-being. By supporting demonstrations, educational activities, and practical applications, the program seeks to communicate effective sustainable practices to agricultural professionals, ultimately benefiting rural economies and ecosystems.