Program has supported 200 organizations and awarded $3.5M in grants since 2021
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Florida — The Make Golf Your Thing Grassroots Grants Program will distribute $500,000 to 69 organizations in 2026, bringing the program’s total investment in expanding access to golf nationwide to $3.5 million.
Administered by the American Golf Industry Coalition and supported by industry partners, the program has awarded grants to 200 organizations since launching in 2021. This year’s funding cycle includes 13 first-time recipients and 56 returning organizations. The program helps expand access to golf by supporting initiatives that engage individuals from historically underrepresented communities.
The investment comes as golf participation continues to reach record levels. According to the National Golf Foundation, 48.1 million Americans engaged with golf in 2025, up 55 percent over the past decade, with participation among women, people of color and juniors increasing 46 percent, 61 percent and 58 percent, respectively.
“Golf has the power to positively impact lives and communities in meaningful ways,” said Dr. Michael Cooper, a longtime golf industry executive, educator and advocate who leads the program’s review and selection process. “Each year, we see organizations using golf to create opportunities, develop life skills and strengthen communities. We are proud to support the important work being done by this year’s recipients.”
The 2026 recipients represent organizations focused on youth development, education, mentorship, adaptive recreation, workforce readiness, community engagement and Veteran support. Seven organizations have received funding during each of the program’s seven funding cycles: FairWays to Leadership, Golf. My Future. My Game., Greater Cleveland Junior Golf Fund, Jackson Park Golf Association, Par Excellence Youth Development, Women in Golf Foundation and Women of Color Golf.
“This generous grant is more than funding — it’s an investment in our community’s future. By supporting our junior golf program, it gives young people access to a sport that builds character, confidence and leadership while creating opportunities that will shape their lives for years to come.” — Bart Ferrara, President and Executive Director, Milwaukee Area Youth Golf Academy
“Receiving this grant is transformational for Range Fore Hope Foundation and the communities we serve across the Carolinas. This funding allows us to expand access to instructional golf programming for youth from underserved communities while continuing to grow the game in spaces where opportunities have historically been limited. It also strengthens our ability to provide life-changing adaptive golf programming and equipment for our adaptive golf community.” — Alvin C. King, Founder and Executive Director, Range Fore Hope Foundation
For a complete list of 2026 grant recipients and additional information about the program, visit MakeGolfYourThing.org.