Park Tool Community Tool Grant

The Park Tool Community Tool Grant is an annual program administered by Park Tool, a private manufacturer renowned for its high-quality bicycle repair and maintenance tools. This grant initiative is part of Park Tool’s broader commitment to supporting cycling communities worldwide by equipping nonprofit organizations with essential tools needed for bicycle maintenance and repair education. The program is designed to strengthen the operational capabilities of community-based organizations focused on cycling, thereby enhancing their ability to serve their constituencies and promote bicycle culture. The grant provides in-kind support rather than direct financial assistance. Each of the ten selected nonprofit recipients receives a comprehensive toolkit valued at over $1,600. The grant package includes a Park Tool PK-5 Professional Mechanic Tool Kit, two PCS-10.3 Portable Repair Stands, five SA-1 Shop Aprons, and a BBB-4 Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair. These resources enable organizations to establish or improve their bicycle repair stations, provide hands-on training, and promote self-sufficiency among community members who rely on cycling as a primary mode of transportation. Eligibility for the Community Tool Grant is limited to nonprofit cycling organizations. While the program is open internationally, it specifically excludes individuals and race teams that are not affiliated with a nonprofit entity. For U.S.-based applicants, 501(c)(3) status is required. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a clear community impact, a sustainable plan for tool usage, and alignment with Park Tool’s mission of supporting cycling infrastructure and education. Applications are submitted through an online form that requests detailed information about the applying organization, including mission, years of operation, service reach, existing partnerships, and current sources for maintenance tools. All submissions must be completed by December 31st at 11:59 PM CST. Applicants are also required to consent to the use of their organization’s information in promotional materials if selected and commit to at least one social media post about receiving the grant. There is no mention of a pre-application process or specific evaluation criteria, but past grant cycles suggest a competitive review based on the organization's scope of impact, need, and potential for growth. Notifications are typically issued in mid-January following the close of the application window. While not explicitly stated, the program is annual, with references to past winners dating back to 2016. The application process is straightforward, but applicants should prepare organizational background information and consider how best to communicate their community role and the anticipated impact of receiving the grant. Recipients should be prepared to promote the award on social media and support the visibility of the Park Tool brand within their networks.

Applicants should clearly articulate community impact and readiness to use tools effectively; ensure nonprofit status and consent to promotion terms.