The USGA Grants office seeks to support organizations that broaden participation in the game of golf and teach the true spirit of the game – integrity, discipline, honor, leadership and sportsmanship – by reinforcing golf’s core values. Programs and projects supported by the USGA have traditionally focused on juniors from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, caddies, individuals with disabilities, and affordable and accessible golf facilities. In making grants to existing, expanding and developing programs, we strive to identify those organizations and communities with sound leadership, innovative program development and strong financial planning.

While we traditionally only support non-profit organizations, designated by the IRS as 501(c)(3), or government entities such as schools or municipalities, we will accept your application if you are in the process of obtaining 501(c)(3) status. Additionally, only projects and programs with a non-discriminatory business philosophy are encouraged to apply. We look for all applying organizations to have a strong "local champion," who is the driving force behind the project and essential to its longevity.

While making up a small percentage of the requests we receive, the USGA does support the construction of courses and learning facilities that address the issues of affordability and accessibility, and foster an introduction to golf. Organizations applying with facility requests should note that we require construction bids from contractors and a business plan for both facility construction and on-going operations. In addition, a description of all programs to be operated at the facility also must be included in the application. For these types of projects, please request a Construction Project application when contacting the USGA.

While we welcome organizations that broaden participation in the game of golf, a high priority is also placed on programs or projects with a significant need or problem, and an innovative solution to address such issues. Strong emphasis also is placed on community resourcefulness, collaboration and the potential for long-term success. The amount and duration of grants awarded vary greatly based upon the type of organization, proposal and needs specified. The USGA does not fund the entire operating budget of any program, project or organization. We seek to support programs that have a specific business plan, which eventually will result in self-sufficiency, with an emphasis on local support. The USGA provides grants for multi-year requests, which are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. When a multi-year grant is awarded, a thorough review of the program, including a detailed analysis of how the grant money has been spent, is conducted at the end of each year.

Challenge grants are contingent upon the grantee’s raising matching funds in a specified time frame. The structure of a challenge grant is unique to each applicant, and the details and terms are described in the award letter.

The USGA Grants Committee recommends all grant decisions to the Grants Board. The Committee meets with staff three to four times per year to review all grant requests. Once decisions have been approved, the applicants are informed, in writing, within three weeks of its review.

If the program or project for which you seek funding is committed to making the game of golf more affordable and accessible to all people, we encourage you to apply. Applications may be requested from the USGA Grants office via phone, fax, mail or e-mail. Each application must be completed in its entirety, including the USGA budget forms, which must contain a detailed accounting of income and expenses from the prior two years, and three years of budgetary projections. A staff member will work closely with you during the application process and will present your information to the USGA Grants Committee. Staff will answer any questions about the application process, and work closely with you to gain a better understanding of the application materials.

In general, the USGA funds neither the administrative costs of a program or project, nor its indirect costs. Individual high school and collegiate golf teams, private individuals and endowments also are not traditionally funded. The USGA does not support other foundations or organizations, which distribute money to recipients of their own selection, without the input from or the approval of the USGA. Research projects not having a direct impact on furthering the mission of the USGA also will not be funded.

For more information, contact the USGA Grants office with your questions at (719) 471-4810 or e-mail us at grants@usga.org