Youth sports funding for girls often flows to national federations, not the local agencies running the programs. NRPA's current grant suite is built differently: it routes dollars directly to park and recreation departments and their affiliated nonprofits.

Amount not published (multiple tracks range from $5,000 microgrants to $100,000) | United States | Applications open now; the MLS GO Play Fund closes December 31, 2026, and 2027 program deadlines are listed on the portal.

nrpa.org/our-work/partnerships/initiatives/youth-sports/game-changing-grants-to-increase-access-to-sports/

Funder profile: kindora.co/funders/135563001

What we know: This is actually a bundle of distinct tracks under one umbrella. The 2027 cycle includes a Nike-supported grant for girls and women in sports ($20,000), a Musco Lighting mini pitch activation grant ($20,000 cash plus $50,000 to $100,000 in-kind), a National Girls and Women in Sports Day microgrant ($5,000), and the MLS GO Play Fund (up to $100,000). Grantees join an NRPA-led Community of Practice, so expect a capacity-building commitment alongside the funding.

Realistic fit: municipal park and recreation agencies, tribal recreation departments, or their affiliated 501(c)(3) nonprofits already running youth sports programming.

The multi-track structure here matters. A small parks nonprofit could apply for the $5,000 microgrant to test a February event while a larger department targets the $100,000 MLS fund. Check each track's eligibility separately on the portal since they have different partners and requirements.

If you know a local parks department or rec-affiliated nonprofit working on girls' sports access, send this their way.