The “Grow the Game” grant application period is officially halfway over.
As of this writing, 53 organizations have been awarded “Grow the Game” grants from the USTA Florida Section. The grants, which serve as the next phase of funding to continue supporting the relief, recovery, and rebuilding of the tennis industry in Florida, will assist organizations with the delivery of entry-level programming to attract and engage new and returning players. With 47% of USTA Florida’s funds already awarded, now is the time to apply for support. The grants are intended to help defray the costs of delivering quality entry-level programs that meet the criteria against some of the following:
- Coaching costs
- Tennis balls, teaching equipment (tubes, carts, hoppers)
- Cleaning/sanitizing efforts (i.e. disposable gloves, disinfectant, cleaning equipment)
- Marketing for tennis programs
- Other tennis-related expenses
To qualify for the “Grow the Game” grants, organizations will be encouraged to develop entry-level programs to engage and retain new or returning players coming to the game, regardless of age. Special emphasis will be placed on those supporting Parks & Rec programs across the country. Grants will be awarded on a sliding scale depending on the number of new and returning players who participate in entry-level programming:
- Band 1 – Between 8-20 players, Grant for $10/player
- Band 2 – Between 21-50, players Grant for $11/player
- Band 3 – Between 51-100 players, Grant for $12/player
- The maximum amount a qualifying organization can receive from USTA Florida is $1,200
The grant window will be open through October 1, 2021. To learn more about the “Grow the Game” grants and for access to the grant application, please visit www.USTA.com/growthegame.
