Recreation For All Grant

The Recreation for All Grant is a funding initiative managed by Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) in partnership with the Seattle Municipal Park District. This local grant program supports community-driven recreation activities throughout the city of Seattle, particularly in neighborhoods experiencing disparities in health, enrichment, and access to services. Funding for the program is sourced from the Seattle Municipal Park District, a voter-approved levy supporting the city’s parklands, recreation facilities, and programming. The goal of the grant is to foster culturally relevant, accessible, and inclusive recreational opportunities that reflect the diversity and needs of Seattle’s underserved communities. Applicants to the Recreation for All Grant can receive up to $15,000 in reimbursement funding to implement new or innovative programs. These activities must take place in designated City of Seattle Parks and Recreation spaces, including community centers, aquatic facilities, and public parks. All projects must occur within specified priority neighborhoods identified by SPR based on equity indicators. To ensure alignment with the program’s purpose, applicants must demonstrate a connection to the communities they serve and show evidence of community involvement in planning and implementation. Funded projects are required to provide free access to the public and must occur between May 1 and December 6, 2026. Funds cannot be carried over into the following calendar year. The grant supports a broad definition of recreation, encompassing physical fitness, cultural and intergenerational programs, arts, wellness, outdoor stewardship, mental health activities, and more. Projects must be held in person and adhere to city regulations, including prohibitions against political or religious activities, alcohol, and certain animals. Applicants may include individuals, informal community groups, small businesses (with under $150,000 in 2025 revenue), and nonprofits or not-for-profit organizations that meet the same financial threshold. Government agencies and universities are not eligible. Fiscal sponsorship is optional but permitted, with up to 10% of funds usable for such services. The application process is straightforward and begins on January 13, 2026, at 8:00AM PST via the GO Smart portal. The deadline for submission is February 10, 2026, at 11:59PM PST. The grant requires applicants to complete a detailed proposal covering project plans, budgets, staffing, outreach, and evaluation. Submissions are reviewed first by SPR staff for eligibility and alignment, then scored by a community review panel using a defined rubric. Award announcements are expected in late March or early April. Contracts are required before program implementation and include documentation such as a City of Seattle business license, liability insurance, background checks, and a W-9 form. Funds may be used for staff costs, supplies, insurance, permits, translation, outreach, and modest stipends or food allowances within defined limits (5% and 10% respectively). Disallowed expenses include administrative overhead not directly tied to the project, unrestricted prizes, personnel benefits, and travel. Payments are made in up to three increments based on the program timeline and documentation compliance. Awardees are expected to submit mid- and final reports that include demographic data, participation metrics, outcomes, and budget reconciliations. The Recreation for All Grant is designed to empower grassroots initiatives that make recreation a meaningful and inclusive part of life for all Seattle residents. Through strong community partnerships, creative programming, and strategic support, SPR aims to advance health, equity, and community cohesion across its park system.

Align projects with priority populations and geographies; include clear staffing, outreach, and outcome measurement.