Grants to Help the Fitness Industry Survive the Pandemic

The fitness industry has been hit hard by the pandemic. Gyms were forced to shut down in March 2020 to try to curb the spread of Covid-19. This crippled the $94 billion US fitness industry, displacing more than 41,000 gyms and 64 million members. To survive, many are trying to pivot their business model by investing heavily in digital and integrating social components where members can see which classes their friends are taking and workout virtually with them. Some gym instructors video chat with clients to help with their form and to motivate them.

It’s not a smooth road for fitness studios that aren’t accustomed to being primarily digital. Although some gyms offer a variety of free live-streamed classes on Facebook, zoom, and YouTube, in many cases, you can only participate (effectively) in the classes if you have certain equipment at home. Regardless if you have pivoted successfully, or you are trying to adjust to the new normal, getting a grant will definitely ease the transition.

Fitness Grants

1. Grants of $500 to $1000 to USA certified yoga teachers for programs and projects that benefit underserved populations and increase access to yoga. Funding is intended to support service projects in the broader communities where teachers reside. Preference is given to teachers looking to expand or launch a yoga outreach project.
   
   
2. In-kind grants of yoga mats to USA certified yoga teachers to increase access to yoga, particularly in underserved populations. Mats are provided and shipped free of charge to support service projects. Preference is given to teachers looking to expand or launch a yoga outreach project.
   
   
3. Grants to USA first responders, military personnel, and veterans with disabilities for sports and fitness programs that enhance their physical and mental well-being. The funding source supports programs that provide opportunities for community re-integration for personnel who have a permanent illness or physical injury that affects their mobility.
   
   
4. Grants to Michigan programs and activities in eligible counties that promote physical fitness and healthy recreation. Funding is intended to support summer camp activities, cross country programs, walking and running programs, track running programs and events, and charitable giving related to running and walking.
   
   
5. Grants to Ohio and Pennsylvania nonprofit and faith-based organizations, municipalities, libraries, and schools for programs that benefit the local community. The Foundation has provided funding in the past to organizations for after-school educational programs, transportation renovations in a park, a family fitness center, programs for single mothers, and financial literacy programs for children and youth.
   
   
6. Grants of up to $2,000 to Alberta nonprofit organizations to offer fitness, sports, cultural, and other recreational opportunities to local residents. Applicants must contact program staff prior to applying. Funding is available for programs and events in the areas of arts and culture, sports and recreation, and healthy living.
   
   
7. Grants to USA, Canada, and International individual athletes with disabilities for costs related to participating in athletic and recreational activities. Funding may be requested to purchase equipment, attend competitions, or to cover costs associated with coaching and training.
   
   
8. Grants of up to $10,000 to USA nonprofit organizations for programs to improve children’s health. Funding is intended for programs that increase the well-being of children and youth through physical activities. The goal of the program is to encourage and inspire youth to improve their lives by leading a more active lifestyle.
   
   
9. Grants of up to $2,000 to Central Florida nonprofits and schools for programs that promote health and physical fitness in eligible counties. Special emphasis is placed on promoting and encouraging health and fitness for youth programs.
   
   
10. Grants of up to $10,000 to Arizona businesses, nonprofits, and retailers in eligible areas for emergency assistance to mitigate the negative impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) health crisis. Funding is intended to help small businesses and nonprofits maintain operations and associated jobs by assisting with rent, utilities, payroll expenses, and other necessary operating costs.

Click this link for additional fitness grants.