Player Matching Grants
About the Program
NFL Foundation Player Matching Grants are designed to provide nonprofit organizations or schools and youth football organizations with funding of up to $5,000 per grant, on behalf of a current NFL Player or NFL Legend (i.e., former player) that has contributed to the organization.
Players and Legends may apply for up to TWO Player Matching Grants per calendar year if the grants are awarded to different organizations. Additionally, an organization may receive up to TWO grants, in one year if the grants are awarded from different Players/Legends.
Player Matching Grant
Players and Legends may apply for matching grants in three areas: Social Justice, Community Support and Youth/ High School Football. To be eligible for match funding, a 1:1 match must be provided by the applicant in the current calendar year.
Please read the criteria for each Player Matching Grant below.
1. Social Justice
Player Matching Social Justice Grants should be used to fund organizations, programs or initiatives that reduce barriers to opportunity. Areas of priority include, but are not limited to, education, criminal justice reform, community/police relations and workforce/economic development. Strong consideration will be given to those organizations that place an emphasis on grassroots leadership and community involvement as a vehicle for social change.
2. Community Support
Player Matching Community Grants are for nonprofit organizations doing work to better the community. This grant allows NFL players and Legends to help support broad community efforts through the work of nonprofit organizations. Areas of support include, but are not limited to, Disease Prevention and Awareness, Mental Health, Youth Health & Fitness, Military Appreciation, Disaster Relief, Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault, Character Education, Anti-Bullying, Animal Welfare, etc. Please note, we will not match donations to political organizations, religious organizations or churches.
3. Youth Football
Player Matching Youth Football Grants support the commitment and financial contributions our current and former players provide to youth and high school football programs. Player and Legend support will go a long way toward helping to ensure that youth and high school football players have the equipment and resources they need to play the game safely.
This grant is open to current and former players who contribute financially to nonprofit organizations or schools and youth football organizations.
Players must be vested.
Former Players Currently Coaching Youth or High School Football
Recognizes the time contribution of former NFL players who coach youth and high school football programs. Eligible players may receive up to $5,000 in non-match funding, based on the need, merit and standing of the application.
Former players MUST serve as HEAD COACHES or full-time assistants in order to be eligible for the grant. Athletic Directors and league commissioners may apply and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Players must be vested.
Important Dates
The application deadline is October 1, 2024.
**Please note: This application is not rolling. Funding determinations will be made after the application deadline. Please do not contact the NFL Foundation for status updates prior to the application deadline.
