This graphic shows the fargo park district foundation logo.

Matching Grant Program Deadline

2026 Matching Grant Applications are open until October 1, 2026 at 4:30pm

Three people work together on a landscaping project near a young tree, installing a wooden border around a planting area. A pile of soil, tools and caution tape surround the work area.
A cyclist rides along a narrow wooded trail while a park worker uses a string trimmer to maintain the trail. Fallen leaves cover the surrounding forest floor.
Workers install and repair aluminum bleachers at an outdoor sports complex during winter, with snow on the ground and stadium light poles in the background.
wo photos of the Brunsdale Park StoryWalk. One shows a paved walking path lined with StoryWalk signs across a grassy park, and the other shows the final sign thanking visitors and providing a QR code for more information.
World Orchard educational sign stands beside rows of young fruit trees and garden plots in a grassy park under a clear blue sky.
Raised pollinator garden filled with flowering plants beside an educational sign and a Certified Pollinator Garden marker.
A gravel path winds through a lush garden, providing a walking route between planted garden beds as children and families explore the area.
Three people work together on a landscaping project near a young tree, installing a wooden border around a planting area. A pile of soil, tools and caution tape surround the work area.
A cyclist rides along a narrow wooded trail while a park worker uses a string trimmer to maintain the trail. Fallen leaves cover the surrounding forest floor.
Workers install and repair aluminum bleachers at an outdoor sports complex during winter, with snow on the ground and stadium light poles in the background.
wo photos of the Brunsdale Park StoryWalk. One shows a paved walking path lined with StoryWalk signs across a grassy park, and the other shows the final sign thanking visitors and providing a QR code for more information.
World Orchard educational sign stands beside rows of young fruit trees and garden plots in a grassy park under a clear blue sky.
Raised pollinator garden filled with flowering plants beside an educational sign and a Certified Pollinator Garden marker.
A gravel path winds through a lush garden, providing a walking route between planted garden beds as children and families explore the area.

Partner with the Fargo Park District Foundation!

The Foundation Matching Grant Program provides financial support for projects to enhance and expand recreational opportunities in the community. Associations, organizations, clubs, and individuals are encouraged to partner with the Foundation to bring community-driven park and recreation projects to life. 

The Foundation Matching Grant Program lets residents recognize a need in their community and team up with the Foundation to find solutions. Approved projects can receive a dollar-for-dollar match of up to 50% of the total estimated cost, with a maximum grant award of $20,000. Projects must have a minimal cost of $2,500 and may include park or facility improvements or the purchase of recreation equipment.

 

"Some of the best ideas for improving our parks come from the people who use them everyday. The Matching Grant Program gives residents and community organizations a way to bring those ideas forward and become partners in shaping the future of Fargo's parks."

- Craig Bjur, Fargo Park District Foundation Director

 

2026 Applications are due by 4:30pm on October 1.

 

Submit your application: Matching Grant Application

 

Matching Grant Program Details

Step 1: Send us your application! 2026 applications are due October 1, 2026

Step 2: Foundation Executive Director reviews applications with Park District executive team and qualified applications move to the Foundation Development Committee for review.

Step 3: Recommended applications are then reviewed/approved by the Fargo Park District Foundation Board.

Step 4: A Matching Grant Program agreement is then signed by the applicant and Foundation Executive Director.

Step 5: Your project is to be completed within 12 months of grant approval.

Step 6: After completing the project, please submit an invoice to the Foundation substantiating the total dollar amount you paid.

Step 7: The Fargo Park District Foundation staff will review and sign off on the completed project to verify the objective of the funding has been met.

Step 8: Schedule a follow-up meeting with the foundation staff for photos and a quick video interview.

Step 9: Enjoy your project and start sharing it with the community!

Who can apply:

Associations, organizations, clubs, or individuals in the Fargo Park District who are interested in applying for a grant to sponsor a project may apply. Projects must be park or facility improvements and may include the purchase of recreation equipment.

Projects eligible and encouraged for funding: 

  • Projects that fit into the Fargo Park District’s strategic plan, mission and vision.
  • Projects that serve a wide variety of people or large number of people, rather than to projects serving a limited group.
  • Projects that can be used throughout the year; more than one season.
  • Projects that have a developmental plan approved or reviewed by Fargo Park District.
  • Projects that are on Fargo Park District property.
  • Projects with limited operational maintenance costs over an extended time period.
  • Playground projects that comply with current playground standards and guidelines.
  • Playgrounds that include a ramp with an accessible route receive the highest consideration.

Projects NOT eligible for funding:

  • Projects on private property as fixed improvements that are not open to the public.
  • Personnel, operations, consultants.
  • Projects that have begun before grant approval.
  • Projects that use in-kind expenses as a match for grant application.
  • Any clothing or uniforms.

After submission, applications will be reviewed by the Fargo Park District Foundation Executive Director and the Park District executive team. Qualified applications will then be presented to Foundation Development Committee.  Recommended applications will then be reviewed and approved/disapproved by Fargo Park District Foundation Board for matching grants. Letters are then sent to all applicants, indicating the approval or denial of grant money. For those approved, an additional agreement is sent to the successful project sponsors, which states the provisions of the grant funds.

Each budget year the Fargo Park District Foundation shall determine how many funds, if any, are available for matching funds and may change or make exceptions to the amount at any time.

Prior to funding, the project applicant must certify that they have the necessary funds for their share of the total estimated project’s cost.

The Matching Grant Program provides a dollar-for-dollar match. Projects are funded at no more than 50 percent of the total estimated cost, or up to a maximum of $20,000, whichever is less, with a $2,500 minimum amount. The Fargo Park District Foundation, at its discretion may approve funding proposals for more than one grant application for 2026 grants but will not exceed $20,000 in total. 

The program does not consider matching funds for projects with in-kind expenses.

The approved projects must be completed within 12 months they are awarded unless other arrangements have been made.

After the project is complete, it shall receive a recognition plaque, dedication, or some other recognition signifying the project is part of the Fargo Park District Foundation Matching Grant Program.

Administration and accounting procedures are determined by agreement with approved parties. All approved projects on Park District property must follow Park District purchasing guidelines, local ordinances, and state laws. Upon completion of the projects on Park District property, Fargo Park District assumes ownership of the improvement or equipment, unless other arrangements are agreed upon.