I GOT THIS Foundation among 69 organizations nationwide selected for 2026 funding
PHOENIX, Arizona – I GOT THIS Foundation has been selected to receive a 2026 Make Golf Your Thing Grassroots Grant, a nationwide initiative supporting organizations that expand access to golf and create opportunities for individuals from historically underrepresented communities.
Administered by the American Golf Industry Coalitionand supported by industry partners, the Make Golf Your Thing Grassroots Grants Program is distributing $500,000 to 69 organizations in 2026. Since launching in 2021, the program has awarded $3.5 million in grants to 200 organizations nationwide.
I GOT THIS Foundation has a mission to promote golf instruction and playing opportunities for people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities.
The grant will significantly expand the I GOT THIS Instructor Academy; an online platform aimed at training professional instructors to teach individuals with intellectual impairments. With the growing number of adaptive golfers, it’s crucial to prepare compassionate and skilled instructors.
The expansion will provide comprehensive training for inclusive environments, adaptive teaching techniques, and foster community among instructors, athletes, and families. It also aims to promote the acceptance of adaptive golfers in the sport, enhancing diversity and enriching lives, ultimately creating a positive impact across communities.
Tracy Hupko, Executive Director of the I GOT THIS Foundation, articulates her vision for the future: “We are privileged to be selected as a recipient for 2026. Our mission supports not just our athletes, but also their families and the broader community. By fostering meaningful connections with instructors nationwide, we will expand adaptive golf and create a positive influence on the game overall.”
The Make Golf Your Thing Grassroots Grants Program supports organizations that use golf to create opportunities, develop life skills and strengthen communities. Recipients represent a wide range of missions, including youth development, education, mentorship, adaptive recreation, workforce readiness, community engagement and Veteran support.
Golf participation continues to grow across the United States. According to the National Golf Foundation, 48.1 million Americans engaged with golf in 2025, representing a 55 percent increase over the past decade. Participation among women, people of color and juniors increased 46 percent, 61 percent and 58 percent, respectively, during that period.
Make Golf Your Thing is a movement focused on expanding access to golf and creating opportunities for more people to experience the sport. Through partnerships and community-based programs, the initiative supports organizations working to make golf more welcoming and accessible.
For more information about Make Golf Your Thing, visit makegolfyourthing.org/.