2026 AARP Community Challenge

AARP's 2026 Community Challenge is now accepting applications for grants that make communities more livable for people of all ages, especially residents age 50 and older. The program funds tangible projects that spark long-term, sustainable community change.

Applicants are encouraged to register for the optional Q&A webinar on January 27, 2026, and to submit applications via the AARP Community Challenge portal by March 4, 2026.

About the AARP Community Challenge

Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded 2,100 grants totaling $24.3 million, supporting projects that improve community life for residents, particularly older adults, and accelerate lasting change.

The program emphasizes:

• Tangible improvements: parks, benches, bike lanes, crosswalks, housing design, and public space enhancements
• Leveraging resources: public, private, and philanthropic support
• Policy impact: overcoming barriers to implement long-term change
• Community engagement: fostering collaboration and participation

2026 Grant Opportunities

Flagship Grants

• Amount: Up to $15,000 (average $10,000–$12,000)
• Eligible projects should benefit residents aged 50+ in at least one area:
  • Vibrant public spaces (parks, community amenities)
  • Transportation & mobility options (walkability, bikeability, transit access)
  • Housing options (accessible, affordable)
  • Digital connections & literacy
  • Disaster resilience (preparedness, mitigation)

Capacity-Building Microgrants

• Amount: $2,500
• Support included: webinars, cohort learning, up to 2 hours of coaching from national nonprofit partners

Eligible projects:

• Walk Audits: with America Walks & AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit
• Bike Audits: with League of American Bicyclists & AARP Bike Audit Tool Kit
• HomeFit Modifications: using the AARP HomeFit Guide
• Disaster Preparedness: Using the AARP Disaster Resilience Tool Kit

Demonstration Grants

• Amount: $10,000–$25,000
• Designed for replication in other communities
• Pedestrian Safety: funded by Toyota Motor North America
• High-Speed Internet: funded by Microsoft
• Housing Design Competitions: Using the AARP Housing Design Competition Tool Kit

Note: Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the official AARP Community Challenge website for full eligibility details, grant guidelines, and contact information.

Who Can Apply

Eligible organizations:

• 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6) nonprofits
• Government entities
• Other organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis

Requirements:

• Projects must align with AARP's mission to serve people age 50+
• Eligible projects include permanent improvements, temporary demonstrations leading to change, and innovative program pilots

Ineligible projects include:

• Partisan, political, voter, or election-related activities
• Studies or assessments without tangible outcomes
• Land/building acquisition, vehicles, and mechanical equipment
• Sponsorships, promotion of for-profit entities, research for profit

Selection Criteria

Note: This information is publicly available. Applicants should visit the official AARP Community Challenge website to verify eligibility and review the most up-to-date selection criteria.

Timeline: 2026 AARP Community Challenge

Note: For full details, visit the 2026 AARP Community Challenge Timeline website.

Application Process

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Complete your submission through the AARP Community Challenge Portal by March 4, 2026, 5 PM ET | 2 PM PT. Ensure your application meets all eligibility requirements. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Step 2: Grant Selection and Next Steps

Applications are reviewed by an AARP panel of experts in aging, community development, and livable communities. Projects are evaluated for:

• Immediate, meaningful impact
• Long-term sustainability and community benefit
• Alignment with selection criteria

Notification:

All applicants will be notified via email in May 2026.

Next Steps for Selected Grantees:

• Complete and return a signed grant agreement
• Complete eSupplier vendor registration by June 10, 2026 (missing this deadline may result in disqualification or delayed funding)

Tip: Always check the official AARP Community Challenge website for the latest guidelines, eligibility information, and application support.

How Tools Like GridSocial Can Help

Tools such as GridSocial by SocialRoots.ai can help organizations participating in the AARP Community Challenge:

• Document community engagement – Capture resident participation and project interactions
• Coordinate partners and stakeholders – Share updates with nonprofits, local agencies, and volunteers
• Track project progress and outcomes – Use dashboards to monitor results and impact
• Streamline administrative tasks – Automate follow-ups, referrals, and reporting reminders

These tools make it easier to manage projects, demonstrate community impact, and prepare for future funding opportunities.

Conclusion: Investing in Age-Friendly Communities

The 2026 AARP Community Challenge provides a unique opportunity for organizations to create meaningful improvements that make communities more livable for residents age 50 and older.

By supporting tangible projects, fostering collaboration, and promoting innovative approaches, this program helps communities overcome barriers and achieve lasting impact. Organizations of all sizes, nonprofits, government entities, and community coalitions, are encouraged to submit ideas that reflect the needs, strengths, and aspirations of the people they serve. With the right planning, tools, and community engagement, your project can make a real difference today and set the stage for long-term change.