AARP Announces Grant Opportunity for Quick-Action Community Improvement Projects

Building great communities takes time – but small, tangible improvements can spark lasting change. That’s the idea behind the AARP Community Challenge, a grant program launched in 2017 to support quick-action projects that enhance livability nationwide. 

Now in its tenth year, the AARP Community Challenge has supported over 2,100 projects nationwide, including 44 grants in Washington totaling $440,244, awarded to nonprofit organizations, academic institutions and local government entities across the state. The program demonstrates how small-scale, fast-moving investments can spark long-term change. Grants support improvements in public spaces, transportation and mobility, housing options, digital connectivity, and disaster resilience. 

The AARP Community Challenge is designed to:

• Accelerate local ideas
• Encourage innovation
• Overcome policy barriers
• Attract additional funding and support

It’s open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations, government entities, and other organizations on a case-by-case basis. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2026.

“AARP Washington is committed to supporting practical projects that make life better for all older adults — especially in places that haven’t always had access to funding,” said Marguerite Ro, AARP Washington State Director. “We are thrilled to open the AARP Community Challenge grant program once again and encourage all eligible organizations to apply.” 

2026 Grant Opportunities

AARP is offering three distinct funding tracks to help communities become more livable for people of all ages – especially those 50 and older. 

• Flagship Grants
  
  Support projects that improve Public Places; Transportation; Housing; Digital Connections; and Disaster Resilience. Awards range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000. 
  
  
• Capacity-Building Microgrants
  
  $2,500 grants paired with expert support, webinars, and cohort learning. Focus areas include Walk Audits, Bike Audits, HomeFit® Guide Modifications, and Disaster Preparedness Training.
  
  
• Demonstration Grants
  
  Designed to replicate promising local efforts. Topics include Pedestrian Safety (funding support from Toyota Motor North America), High-Speed Internet (funding support from Microsoft), and Housing Design Competitions. Awards typically range from $10,000-$20,000, and will not exceed $25,000. 

About the AARP Community Challenge

The grant program is part of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, which helps neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties become great places to live for people of all ages. We believe communities should offer:

• Safe, walkable streets
• Affordable and accessible housing
• Reliable transportation options
• Access to services
• Opportunities for civic and social engagement 

Apply Today

To learn more, explore past grantees, and submit your application, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge. 

Deadline: March 4, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. PT

Project Completion: December 15, 2026