Physical Activity

The Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) has released the Targeted Achievement Grant: Physical Activity to expand access to community-based programs that promote healthier lifestyles through group exercise and social support. Authorized under Oklahoma constitutional and statutory provisions, this opportunity reflects TSET’s mission to reduce chronic disease by encouraging physical activity and fostering supportive environments where Oklahomans of all ages can be more active together. TSET emphasizes that programs must align with its strategic plan and are expected to promote sustainable community impact beyond the funding period. This grant is designed to support new or expanded recurring social support programs that bring people together through physical activity. Eligible activities include walking clubs, exercise classes, dance, yoga, tai chi, pickleball, biking, and other community fitness offerings. Allowable costs include planning, implementation, and small supplies such as mats, resistance bands, or sport equipment, as well as the development of community management plans to ensure participation. Programs must run for at least six months and be located on public property open and accessible to the general public. Preference is given to proposals that focus on older adults aged fifty-five and above, incorporate shared-use agreements for facilities, or leverage matching funds from other partners. Eligibility is limited to Oklahoma-based entities with a physical office in the state and in good standing with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. Qualified applicants include local governments, counties, nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, tribal nations, institutions of higher education, county health departments, and other public entities such as school districts and state agencies. Applicants must certify compliance with TSET’s tobacco-free funding requirements, submit signed workplace wellness and tobacco-free policies, and agree not to accept tobacco industry funds. Applications are restricted to programs serving one or more of the thirty-three listed counties, with a maximum of five distinct delivery sites per application. Programs must be accessible to all Oklahomans regardless of income, with provisions such as sliding fee scales or scholarships if fees are charged. The cooperative agreement period begins on July 1, 2026, and runs through June 30, 2027, with potential annual renewals for up to three years based on satisfactory performance and available funds. The maximum award is $100,000 per year, with a total of $400,000 available annually for all grantees. Indirect costs are capped at fifteen percent of the award, and TSET will reimburse approved expenditures on a cost-reimbursement basis. While no formal match is required, applicants providing confirmed cash or in-kind contributions will receive preference points in the review process. Grantees are expected to expend at least ninety-five percent of their awarded funds each year. Applications open September 23, 2025, with a submission deadline of November 18, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Central Time. Award notifications are anticipated by March 26, 2026, with funded programs beginning July 1, 2026. The review process includes internal screening for eligibility and compliance, followed by scoring based on applicant capacity, statement of need, program design, evaluation approach, sustainability plan, and budget justification. Preference points are awarded for programs addressing older adults, providing confirmed match, or securing shared-use agreements for facilities. The TSET Board of Directors makes all final award decisions. All applications must be submitted electronically through the TSET Funding Portal, with required attachments including proof of workers’ compensation coverage, key performance indicator tools, organizational assurances, tobacco-free and wellness policies, and certification of non-acceptance of tobacco funds. Successful grantees will be required to work with an external evaluator, submit quarterly performance and financial reports, and acknowledge TSET support in communications and signage. Questions regarding the RFA must be submitted through the TSET website by October 24, 2025, with responses posted publicly. Assistance with portal registration or submission may be obtained through the designated technical assistance form. Through this opportunity, TSET seeks to strengthen communities by fostering inclusive, accessible, and sustainable opportunities for physical activity. By targeting select counties and requiring broad community engagement, the program aims to create replicable models for increasing physical activity, reducing obesity, and improving long-term health outcomes across Oklahoma.

Programs serving adults 55 plus receive preference; confirmed match funding and shared use agreements increase competitiveness; ensure program is accessible to all income levels; include robust evaluation and sustainability plans