The AARP Community Challenge focuses on tangible change and community engagement, and its quick-action timeline helps selected grantees fast-track ideas and implement promising practices. Previously funded projects, from rural Georgia to metropolitan areas, have also assisted in securing additional funding or support from public and private funders, encourage innovation, and overcome local policy barriers.

AARP is accepting applications for the 2026 funding cycle that:

• Deliver tangible improvements to communities, such as new crosswalks, benches, bike lanes, housing designs, and public space enhancements.
• Leverage additional support from public, private, and philanthropic sources
• Help communities overcome policy barriers and implement lasting change
• Foster new collaborations and increase community engagement

Grants can range from a few hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand for larger projects.

For more information, see the Frequently Asked Questions.

Grant Types

There are three types of grants available this funding cycle:

1. Flagship Grants: AARP’s flagship Community Challenge grants range from a few hundred dollars for short-term activities to $15,000 for larger initiatives. Since 2017, the average grant has been between $10,000 and $12,000. AARP reserves the right to award compelling projects at any amount. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — in at least one of the following categories:
   1. Creating vibrant public places
   2. Expanding transportation and mobility options
   3. Increasing housing options
   4. Enhancing digital connections and digital literacy
   5. Strengthening disaster resilience
2. Capacity-Building Microgrants: These $2,500 microgrants come with added support, including webinars, cohort learning, up to two hours of coaching from national nonprofit organizations working with AARP to support the AARP Community Challenge program, and AARP resources. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — in at least one of the following categories:
   1. Walk Audits
   2. Bike Audits
   3. HomeFit Modifications
   4. Disaster Preparedness
3. Demonstration Grants: These grants support projects that can be replicated in other communities. Awards typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 and will not exceed $25,000. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — in at least one of the following categories:
   1. Pedestrian Safety
   2. High-Speed Internet
   3. Housing Design Competitions

For further resources and more information on the different types of grants, please see the grant website.

Eligibility

The program is open to:

• 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations recognized by the IRS
• Government entities
• Other types of organizations considered on a case-by-case basis

Note: AARP does not fund for-profit companies or individuals.

Match Requirement

Matching funds are not required to apply for an AARP Community Challenge grant.

However, if your project involves volunteers, you may assign a monetary value to their donated time as an in-kind contribution or matching funds. Several online resources can help estimate the value of volunteer hours.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the AARP Community Challenge Application Portal.

Contact

If you have any questions or for additional information, please contact Alnory Gutlay, Associate State Director at agutlay@aarp.org.

Deadline

All applications must be submitted no later than 5 pm ET on March 4, 2026.