Our Grants

Grant Programs

Current Year Grant Summary

In 2025, the National Recreation Foundation contributed $2,422,500 in support of charitable organizations that share its vision of fostering positive youth development and expanding access for young people to play, explore, learn, and grow in the outdoors.

TNC
The Nature Conservancy of Illinois

Types of Grants

Since its inception in 1965, NRF has recognized the critical role of recreation in fostering healthy lifestyles and its grantmaking has supported recreation programs for those who need it most. To accomplish this, NRF supports 501(c)(3) public charities and federally recognized tribal entities that foster positive youth development through outdoor recreation and a connection to nature.

NRF awards grants through three grant programs:

  • Trustee Grants primarily support small local and regional organizations serving youth (ages 6-24) that lack access to outdoor recreation opportunities. NRF Outdoor Grants may be up to $20,000 for one to three years.
  • Special Grants provide increased funding to effective organizations that are ready to grow, innovate, replicate and/or scale. (Special Grants are restricted to organizations that have already received two to three years of Outdoor Grant support.)
  • Field-Building Grants focuses on strengthening and growing the network of organizations providing meaningful experiences outdoors for young people who would otherwise lack access. NRF seeks to develop strong field leaders and champions for youth outdoor recreation.

The National Recreation Foundation accepts no unsolicited proposals.

Grant applications are by invitation only.