We know that it takes time to build great communities. But, we also believe that tangible improvements can spark long-term change. AARP launched the Community Challenge in 2017 to fund projects that build momentum to improve livability for all. We are excited to announce the program is back in 2021 for its fifth year and is currently accepting applications online through April 14, 7:00 p.m. CST.

The AARP Community Challenge’s focus on tangible projects, community engagement, and its “quick action” timeline help selected grantees fast-track their ideas and replicate promising practices. Some previous projects have demonstrated an ability to garner additional funds or support from public and private funders, encourage innovation, overcome local policy barriers, and receive greater overall awareness and engagement.

The grant program is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand or tens of thousands for larger projects.

AARP will prioritize projects that deliver inclusive solutions that meet the needs of diverse populations, as well as those that directly engage volunteers through permanent or temporary solutions that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

• Creating vibrant public places and improving open spaces, parks and access to other amenities;
• Delivering a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements;
• Supporting a range of housing options that increase the availability of accessible and affordable choices;
• Increasing civic engagement and demonstrating the tangible value of “Smart Cities” with innovative and tangible projects that bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of inclusion;
• Supporting local recovery from the coronavirus pandemic with an emphasis on economic development, improvements to public spaces, and transportation services;
• Ensuring a focus on diversity and inclusion while improving the built and social environment of a community; and
• Other innovative projects to improve the community. In addition to these areas of focus, AARP wants to hear about local needs and innovative ideas for addressing them.

Since 2017, the Community Challenge has funded 560 projects nationwide, including 13 right here in Minnesota.


The Community Challenge grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and counties across the country to become great places to live for people of all ages. We believe that communities should provide safe, walkable streets; affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life.

The application deadline for the 2021 grant cycle is April 14 at 7:00 p.m. CST. All projects must be completed by November 10, 2021.

To submit an application and learn more about the work being funded by the Community Challenge both here in Minnesota as well as across the nation, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge. You can also view an interactive map of all of the Community Challenge projects and AARP Minnesota’s livable communities work at aarp.org/livable.