Key Takeaways
- Events DC awarded $750,000 in community grants to 66 local non-profit organizations supporting youth sports, cultural arts, and performing arts programs in Washington, DC.
- The program distributes grants across two annual cycles, with $750,000 allocated per fiscal year to District-based organizations.
- For fiscal year 2026’s first cycle, Events DC received 153 applications, including 30 submissions from first-time applicants.
- Selected applicants for the FY 2026 first cycle will receive funding by Thanksgiving 2025, with the second cycle opening in December.
- Events DC launched SmartSimple grant management software in 2025 to streamline the application process for non-profits.
Annual Program Structure and Fiscal Year 2025 Recipients
Events DC, Washington, DC’s official convention and sports authority, announced on November 3, 2025, that 66 local non-profit organizations received funding through its Community Grants Program. The program allocates $750,000 annually across two funding cycles to organizations serving District youth through sports, performing arts, and cultural arts programming.
The fiscal year 2025 grantees were recognized at a November 3 dinner at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. The event featured a performance by the Chiquinha Gonzaga Youth Symphony Orchestra, an all-female orchestra from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as part of a cultural exchange initiated by Events DC.
“With the Community Grants, the awardees will be able to do even more to accomplish our shared goal of ensuring Washington, DC continues to be a city where everyone can thrive,” said Angie M. Gates, Events DC President and CEO.
Grant Focus and Community Impact
The program targets three primary categories: youth sports, performing arts, and cultural arts. Organizations use the funding to expand access, enhance program quality, or serve underserved communities within the District.
The Fishing School, a fiscal year 2025 grantee, focuses on STEAM learning opportunities. “We are driven by a vision where every child in the District—no matter their zip code—has access to the power of STEAM learning,” said Meeta Sharma-Holt, Executive Director.
The National Capital Fencers Club uses grant funding to introduce fencing to underserved communities in Washington, DC. “Without the support and partnership of the Community Grants Program and the St. Augustine Catholic School, we would not be able to introduce and promote the sport of fencing to an underserved community,” said George King, NCFC Vice President.
Application Demand and Process Changes
For the fiscal year 2026 first cycle, Events DC received 153 applications, with 30 submissions coming from organizations applying for the first time. This represents growing awareness of and demand for the program among District non-profits.
Selected applicants from the first cycle will receive funding by Thanksgiving 2025. The second cycle for fiscal year 2026 opens in December 2025, with informational sessions scheduled for January 2026. The application deadline is February 2, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
In 2025, Events DC implemented SmartSimple, a grant management software platform designed to simplify the application process. The change addresses accessibility barriers that may have prevented smaller organizations from applying in previous years.
Next Steps for Applicants
Non-profit organizations interested in applying for the fiscal year 2026 second cycle can access program information, eligibility requirements, and past grantee lists at www.eventsdc.com/community/community-grants. The site provides details on application requirements and program guidelines.
Organizations must serve District youth and operate within one of the three program focus areas to qualify. The two-cycle structure allows organizations that miss one deadline to apply during the alternate cycle within the same fiscal year.
via: Events DC
YSBR provides this content on an “as is” basis without any warranties, express or implied. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability, or use of the information, including any images, videos, or licenses associated with this article. For any concerns, including copyright issues or complaints, please contact YSBR directly.
About Youth Sports Business Report
Youth Sports Business Report is the largest and most trusted source for youth sports industry news, insights, and analysis covering the $54 billion youth sports market. Trusted by over 50,000 followers including industry executives, investors, youth sports parents and sports business professionals, we are the premier destination for comprehensive youth sports business intelligence.
Our core mission: Make Youth Sports Better. As the leading authority in youth sports business reporting, we deliver unparalleled coverage of sports business trends, youth athletics, and emerging opportunities across the youth sports ecosystem.
Our expert editorial team provides authoritative, in-depth reporting on key youth sports industry verticals including:
- Sports sponsorship and institutional capital (Private Equity, Venture Capital)
- Youth Sports events and tournament management
- NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) developments and compliance
- Youth sports coaching and sports recruitment strategies
- Sports technology and data analytics innovation
- Youth sports facilities development and management
- Sports content creation and digital media monetization
Whether you’re a sports industry executive, institutional investor, youth sports parent, coach, or sports business enthusiast, Youth Sports Business Report is your most reliable source for the actionable sports business insights you need to stay ahead of youth athletics trends and make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving youth sports landscape.
Join our growing community of 50,000+ industry leaders who depend on our trusted youth sports business analysis to drive success in the youth sports industry.
Stay connected with the pulse of the youth sports business – where industry expertise meets actionable intelligence.
Sign up for the biggest newsletter in Youth Sports – Youth Sports HQ – The best youth sports newsletter in the industry
Follow Youth Sports Business Report Founder Cameron Korab on LinkedIn
Are you a brand looking to tap into the world’s most passionate fanbase… youth sports?
Introducing Play Up Partners, a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.
About Play Up Partners
Play Up Partners is a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.
Why Sponsor Youth Sports?
Youth sports represents one of the most engaged and passionate audiences in sports marketing. With over 70 million young athletes and their families participating annually, the youth sports industry offers brands unparalleled access to motivated communities with strong purchasing power and loyalty.
What Does Play Up Partners Do?
We’ve done the heavy lifting to untangle the complex youth sports landscape so our brand partners can engage with clarity, confidence, and impact. Our vetted network of accredited youth sports organizations (from local leagues to national tournaments and operators) allows us to create flexible, scalable programs that evolve with the market.
Our Approach
Every partnership we build is rooted in authenticity and value creation. We don’t just broker deals. We craft youth sports marketing strategies that:
- Deliver measurable ROI for brand partners
- Create meaningful experiences for athletes and families
- Elevate the youth sports ecosystem
Our Vision
We’re positioning youth sports as the most desirable and effective platform in sports marketing. Our mission is simple: MAKE YOUTH SPORTS BETTER for athletes, families, organizations, and brand partners.
Common Questions About Youth Sports Marketing
Where can I sponsor youth sports? How do I activate in youth sports? What is the ROI of youth sports marketing? How much does youth sports sponsorship cost?
We have answers. Reach out to info@playuppartners.com to learn how Play Up Partners can help your brand navigate the youth sports landscape.
Youth sports organizations: Interested in partnership opportunities? Reach out to learn about our accreditation process.
