Community Grant Program

The Dave McGillivray Finish Strong Foundation (DMFSF) offers a grant program that aims to inspire and empower youth through three pillars: physical fitness, literacy, and acts of kindness. The Foundation awards grants twice annually to eligible organizations that help young people build confidence, self-respect, and community connection—one step at a time. This funding opportunity prioritizes programs that align with its core mission of encouraging healthy, active lifestyles, reading development, and good citizenship. Grants of up to $5,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations, educational institutions, and public libraries. Organizations must primarily serve youth aged 17 and under or have at least 75% of their participants in this age group. The program does not fund general operating expenses or administrative overhead. Proposals must focus on new or ongoing initiatives rather than one-time events unless the event is part of a sustained effort. Applications for the Fall 2025 cycle are currently open and will close on November 14, 2025. Award notifications will be sent via email approximately one month after the deadline. Preference is given to smaller organizations headquartered in or significantly impacting the New England region, particularly those serving areas with high poverty levels or low reading scores. The Foundation also encourages applications from groups implementing or planning to implement its Dream Big Marathon (DBM) program within the next 12 months. Eligible programs may focus on physical fitness and running-based activities, educational and literacy interventions, or social-emotional learning and citizenship promotion. However, funding will not be provided for facility upgrades, playgrounds, race entry fees, or equipment purchases. Projects must be designed to deliver lasting impact and promote youth development beyond the duration of funding. The application process includes a competitive review by the Foundation’s Grant Review Committee. Selected recipients must complete an outcome-based final report, and in some cases, an interim report for continuing projects. Awardees are encouraged to document their progress with photos or videos. While organizations may apply annually, only one grant may be awarded per organization per year.

Tailor the proposal to one of the three mission elements. Emphasize impact on youth and explain how your work aligns with the Dream Big Marathon initiative if applicable.