The Fargo Park District Foundation has relaunched its Matching Grant Program for 2026, creating opportunities for Fargo residents, organizations, and businesses to partner with the Foundation to bring community-driven park and recreation projects to life.
Program Information
Established in 2019, the Matching Grant Program provides financial support for projects to enhance Fargo Park District parks and facilitites and expand recreational opportunities in the community. Associations, organizations, clubs and individuals are encouraged to identify a need, develop a project and partner with the Foundation to help make it possible. To date, the Matching Grant Program has matched over $141,000 to impactful projects within our parks system.
“Some of the best ideas for improving our parks come from the people who use them every day,” said Craig Bjur, Executive Director of the Fargo Park District Foundation. “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. By combining community initiative with Foundation support, we can turn those ideas into lasting improvements that benefit the entire community.”
Approved projects may receive a dollar-for-dollar match of up to 50% of the total estimated project cost, with a maximum grant award of $20,000. Projects must have a minimum total cost of $2,500 and may include park or facility improvements or the purchase of recreation equipment.
Past Recipients
Past partnerships through the Matching Grant Program demonstrate the variety of ways community ideas can make an impact. Projects have included partnering with the Fargo Public Library to create the StoryWalk at Brunsdale Park, supporting Fargo Youth Baseball with batting cage upgrades to accommodate program growth, and assisting Growing Together Community Gardens with equipment to improve its community garden plots.
Most recently, an Eagle Scout used the Matching Grant Program to complete his Eagle Scout project at Brandt Crossing Dog Park, adding ramps and hurdles for dogs and their owners to enjoy while visiting the park.
Application Details
2026 applications are due by 4:30 pm on October 1. Program guidelines and application information are available at https://www.fargoparks.com/foundation/matching-grant-program.
The Fargo Park District Foundation pursues unique fundraising opportunities and increases private-sector support to further the development, growth and excellence of the Fargo Park District in providing modernized facilities and quality recreation services.
