Communities across the nation are invited to apply for 2026 AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) Community Challenge grants, an exciting funding opportunity that helps local organizations turn great “ideas “quick action” projects into tangible improvements that make downtowns and Main Streets more livable for people of all ages.
The AARP Livable Communities initiative supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and rural areas to be great places for people of all ages and life stages by providing safe, walkable streets; age-friendly housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life.
2026 Community Challenge funding can be applied across three grant opportunities:
Flagship Grants range from a few hundred dollars for short-term activities to $15,000 for larger initiatives, in at least one of the following categories:
- Creating vibrant public places (i.e., parks, open spaces, community amenities).
- Expanding transportation and mobility options (i.e., walkability, bikeability, transit access).
- Increasing housing options (i.e., accessible and affordable choices).
- Enhancing digital connections and digital literacy.
- Strengthening disaster resilience (i.e., disaster preparedness and mitigation).
Capacity Building Microgrants offer $2,500 to support projects that benefit residents (especially those age 50 and older). The grant is supported with webinars, cohort learning, and up to 2 hours of coaching with leading national nonprofit organizations working with AARP to support the AARP Community Challenge program and AARP resources.
Demonstration Grants range from $10,000 to $25,000 and support projects that can be replicated in other communities for:
- Pedestrian Safety: Improve the safety of streets and sidewalks.
- High-Speed Internet: Increase broadband access and adoption.
- Housing Design Competitions: Promote understanding and implementation of housing policies that support a variety of community needs using the AARP Housing Design Competition Tool Kit.
Whether you’re planning a small streetscape upgrade, an innovative public space activation, or a new program that brings people together, this grant is designed to jump-start projects that spark long-term community change. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — and the broader community.
Grant funding is available to non-profit organizations and government entities. Applications are due by March 4, 2026, with projects expected to be complete by the end of the year.
Virginia Main Street 