Get Moving Grant

Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR), in collaboration with the Seattle Municipal Park District, offers the 2026 Get Moving Grant to enhance access to culturally relevant physical activity programming throughout Seattle. The grant is part of the broader Get Moving Initiative, which seeks to combat health disparities by funding community-led fitness and wellness activities. The initiative is grounded in SPR’s mission to promote healthy people, vibrant communities, and equitable access to recreation. Funding is supported through the voter-approved Seattle Municipal Park District, which underwrites park maintenance, facility operations, and new community initiatives. The Get Moving Grant provides up to $15,000 in reimbursement-based funding to eligible individuals, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and local community groups. Projects must occur within the city limits of Seattle and serve communities affected by racial, economic, educational, or health inequities. Funded activities must include at least 90% physically active programming and are required to participate fully in the citywide Big Day of Play event on August 15, 2026. All funded programs must also comply with city mandates, be free and open to the public, and occur between May 1 and December 6, 2026. Applications open January 13, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. PST and close February 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. Submissions will be screened by SPR staff for eligibility before being evaluated by a community review panel. Panelists will assess applicants based on project feasibility, community impact, alignment with priority populations and neighborhoods, and clarity of the proposed budget and work plan. Award announcements are expected in late March or early April 2026. Eligible applicants include individuals and informal community groups not affiliated with formal business structures, as well as nonprofits and small businesses with gross revenue under $150,000 in 2025. No fiscal sponsor is required, although one can be used optionally. Ineligible entities include government agencies, universities, and any organization exceeding the revenue threshold. Priority will be given to applicants proposing activities in neighborhoods identified as having the greatest health disparities (e.g., Rainier Valley, South Park, High Point, Lake City) and to those serving historically underserved populations such as communities of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, people with disabilities, and Indigenous communities. Allowable costs include staff and contract personnel, program supplies, safety equipment, space rental fees, insurance, and limited allocations for food (up to 10% of total funds) and participant stipends (up to 5%, contingent on meeting specific performance metrics). Funds cannot be used for organizational overhead, unrestricted prizes, or travel expenses. Awardees must obtain necessary city permits and provide proof of liability insurance, background checks for all staff and volunteers, a Seattle business license, and documentation supporting program expenditures for reimbursement. All awardees will be required to submit mid-year and final reports, including participant data (e.g., demographics, attendance), financial reporting, marketing samples, and outcome assessments. Programs must be completed and closed out by December 6, 2026. SPR provides technical support throughout the application and implementation process. Questions may be directed to SPR’s grants team at [email protected]. The official guidelines document is available at: https://seattle.gov/documents/Departments/ParksAndRecreation/Initiatives/GM_R4A_Guidelines2026_ADA.pdf.

Prioritize alignment with underserved communities and clearly define outcomes, outreach, and budget justification.