Hennepin County Youth Activities Grants – Play Area Grants

The Hennepin County Youth Activities Grants (HCYAG) program provides targeted financial support for youth engagement through sports, arts, and water safety initiatives. Established in 2009, the program is funded by proceeds from the Twins ballpark sales tax and is administered by Hennepin County. The Play Area Grants, one of three program initiatives, are designed to enhance youth participation in recreational and athletic activities by supporting the creation, expansion, and improvement of athletic facilities, playgrounds, and other youth-centered play spaces. Grants of up to $300,000 are available per project in the Fall 2025 cycle, with approximately $1.3 million in total funding allocated. Funding availability is subject to the volume and scope of applications received. The program prioritizes projects that expand access to physical activity for youth and improve infrastructure used by children and teenagers throughout the county. This grant round opens with the release of Requests for Applications (RFAs) on August 4, 2025, through the Hennepin County Supplier Portal. Completed applications must be submitted by September 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Eligibility is limited to Local Government Units (LGUs) within Hennepin County. For this grant, eligible LGUs include governmental entities such as municipal districts, park districts, public school districts, and watershed districts operating in the county. While nonprofit organizations and charter schools may participate in projects as partners, they are not eligible to apply independently. Any school-based program must apply through its school district, not as a separate entity. Cross-sector collaboration is encouraged, with LGUs invited to partner with community organizations, education programs, and local businesses to maximize the impact of funded projects. The types of projects supported include construction or renovation of youth athletic fields, installation of new playground equipment, development of inclusive play areas, or provision of equipment for community recreational facilities. Proposals must clearly define how they will increase access for youth and support long-term community engagement. Hennepin County emphasizes equitable access and encourages applications that serve historically underserved or economically disadvantaged communities. All application materials must be submitted through the Hennepin County Supplier Portal by the published deadline. No alternate submission methods are accepted. Applicants should ensure compliance with all application requirements and verify eligibility status prior to submission. Questions about the program or application process can be directed to Program Manager Sarah Breyette at youth.grants@hennepin.us or by phone at 612-348-8172.

Partnering with local community groups is encouraged. Ensure that the application is submitted through the LGU and not through a third-party partner.