October Opportunities for Sports and Recreation Nonprofits

October brings a strong month for trail work, youth athletics, and outdoor access. Whether you're building new infrastructure, maintaining what you have, or expanding programs for young people, these opportunities reward the relationships you're already building with your communities and the land.

Kentucky Bicycle and Bikeway Commission: Grant for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Education Programs

If your organization teaches bike and pedestrian safety, this grant funds curriculum development, training materials, public awareness campaigns, and safety classes. The focus is on education and behavior change, not infrastructure. Deadline is October 1. Apply here

Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites & Trails / Wyoming Office of Tourism: Grant for Trail Development Nonprofits and Public Land Agencies

Wyoming is funding the construction and improvement of non-motorized trails on public lands, including trailheads, kiosks, and facilities. Note that planning and design work alone are not eligible, but construction and maintenance are. Deadline is October 1. Apply here

Delaware County Trails Committee: Grant for Trail Development Nonprofits and Local Governments

This Ohio-based funder awards up to $100,000 for trail construction, property acquisition, and maintenance in Delaware County. The grant can also serve as matching funds for other sources. Deadline is October 1. Apply here

Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company: Grant for Public Recreational Facility Improvement on Reservoirs

If you manage public recreation sites on WVIC reservoirs in Wisconsin, this funder supports boat ramps, piers, parking, trails, and picnic facilities. Funds are reimbursed after project completion, so cash flow matters. Deadline is October 2. Apply here

Colorado Parks and Wildlife: Grant for Trail Construction and Maintenance Projects

Colorado is awarding up to $250,000 for trail work that balances recreation with wildlife and cultural resource protection. Eligible projects include new construction, maintenance, planning, volunteer capacity building, and stewardship crews. Deadline is October 2. Apply here

Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation: Grant for Youth Athletic Organizations

This $3,000 grant supports youth sports organizations serving ages 5 to 18 in the Mattoon area. Funding covers equipment, uniforms, facility work, scholarships, coaching training, and tournament costs. Deadline is October 6. Apply here

River City Outdoors: Grant for Community Outdoor Recreation Projects

River City Outdoors awards $5,000 one-time grants for community-led outdoor recreation projects that expand access and participation. You do not need 501(c)(3) status, and fiscal sponsorships are welcome. Deadline is October 15. Apply here

If there's a funder relationship in sports and recreation you're trying to strengthen this quarter, let us know. Funding Findr is here to help you stay close to the funders who care about the same work you do.

Funding Findr is a fundraising & development operating system for people who are on the ground doing the work. Enterprise-grade funder intelligence, grant listings with no dead links, built for nonprofits. Start for free at fundingfindr.co.