COLUMBUS — Eligible local nonprofits and governments across the country are invited to apply for the 2025 AARP Community Challenge Grant to fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable through improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more.

The program is in its ninth year and part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, supporting the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for all residents, especially those age 50 and older.

“These grants support opportunities to address pressing needs and test solutions that create lasting change, such as enhance public spaces, improve mobility, increase housing options and foster community engagement,” said State Director Jenny Carlson of AARP Ohio. 

This year, the challenge is accepting applications across three different grant opportunities. All projects must be consistent with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of people 50 and older, along with other eligibility criteria.

Capacity-building microgrants are paired with additional resources, including one-on-one coaching from national nonprofit organizations, webinars and cohort learning opportunities for improving walkability and bikeability, implementing safe, accessible home modifications and disaster preparedness training.

Demonstration grants fund projects that encourage replication of exemplary local efforts.

This year’s focus is on improving pedestrian safety, expanding high-speed internet access and adoption, reconnecting communities divided by infrastructure and implementing housing choice design competitions.

Flagship grants support projects that improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections and community resilience.

“AARP is committed to creating communities where people of all ages and abilities can thrive,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP executive vice president. “The Community Challenge helps cities, towns and counties get things started with small improvements that can kick-start meaningful changes that improve people’s lives and strengthens the places they call home.”

The Community Challenge is open to eligible nonprofit organizations 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 tens of thousands for larger projects.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. March 5. All projects must be completed by Dec. 15. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.