AEI Youth Sports Fund

The AEI Youth Sports Fund is a Field of Interest Fund created in 2019 by Analytical Engineering, Inc. to address financial barriers that prevent youth participation in athletics. Recognizing the high costs associated with sports and fitness programming, AEI established this fund to promote equity and access for young people who otherwise might not be able to engage in such activities. The fund is administered through a local community foundation and focuses on youth residing in Bartholomew County and its surrounding areas. The primary objective of the AEI Youth Sports Fund is to increase access to athletic and fitness programs for youth aged 18 and under who face economic challenges. By easing the financial burden on families, the fund enables children and teens to participate in sports leagues, training sessions, and fitness activities that contribute to their physical, mental, and social development. The initiative stems from AEI's belief in the long-term benefits of youth sports participation, including teamwork, discipline, and wellness. Both individuals and organizations are eligible to apply for funding. Individual applicants may request support for a specific child’s participation in an activity, while organizations may seek funding to subsidize program costs, provide equipment, or cover registration fees for youth who demonstrate financial need. The fund is geographically limited to Bartholomew County, Indiana, and adjacent counties. This localized approach ensures that resources are directed to communities in which AEI and its philanthropic partners have established relationships. Applications are accepted online and require the creation of a user profile through the designated application portal. Once a profile is created, the applicant can submit the necessary information and documentation. The application form is streamlined to encourage accessibility and minimize burden, particularly for individual families seeking modest levels of support. The AEI Youth Sports Fund operates on a quarterly cycle, with four annual deadlines: March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31. Based on the September 1, 2025 reference date, the next upcoming deadline is September 30, 2025. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis within each quarter. While no specific award amounts are stated, funding is intended to cover participation-related costs and is distributed based on need and availability of funds. Though minimal detail is provided about the evaluation process, applicants are encouraged to clearly demonstrate both financial need and the intended use of funds. No matching funds are required. For more information, applicants are directed to begin the application process online via the appropriate link, where they will create an account and access the full application form. There is no direct contact information or in-depth guidance currently provided in the source material.

Applicants must create a profile to begin application. No other tips provided.