Amateur Radio Grants

The ARRL Foundation offers a grant program designed to support organizations undertaking amateur radio-related initiatives, particularly those aimed at education, licensing, and support of Amateur Radio activities in the United States. With a strong preference for youth-oriented projects, the Foundation seeks to encourage and sustain interest in amateur radio among younger generations. The program operates under the governance of the ARRL Foundation, a private entity supporting the development and advancement of amateur radio through financial and programmatic assistance. The grants program follows a cyclical application model, accepting proposals three times per year during the months of February, June, and October. Specifically, submission windows occur from February 1 to February 28, June 1 to June 30, and October 1 to October 31. Once each cycle concludes, the Grant Committee reviews all submissions. Proposals endorsed by the Committee are forwarded to the full ARRL Foundation Board for a final vote. Award decisions are communicated approximately one month following each cycle’s close. Eligible applicants include only organizations operating within the United States. The Foundation does not accept proposals from individuals, and projects related to emergency communications, ongoing operations, or recurring expenses are not considered. Preference is given to initiatives that demonstrate a high likelihood of sustainability or expansion, as well as those backed by support from local amateur radio clubs or communities. Moreover, the Foundation prefers not to be the sole source of funding and encourages applicants to present evidence of additional successful fundraising efforts. Award amounts typically do not exceed $3,000, and grants may be funded in full or in part at the discretion of the Foundation. While rare, the ARRL Foundation may consider extensions to previously awarded grants. Funding may be drawn from the Foundation's General Fund or one of several specialized sources, including the Victor C. Clark Youth Incentive Fund, CW Operators Educational Fund, Alfred E. Friend, Jr. Educational Activities Fund, and the Keith Pugh funds designated for educational or satellite projects. To apply, organizations must submit a proposal during one of the designated application windows. There are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers. Once submitted, proposals are reviewed in a structured process that leads to formal approval by the Foundation Board. The timeline ensures a consistent review and notification process across the three annual cycles. Inquiries about eligibility, proposal guidelines, or contributions to the ARRL Foundation can be directed via email to [email protected]. The Foundation emphasizes the importance of well-supported, scalable, and youth-focused proposals that align with its mission to further amateur radio engagement and education in the United States.