AARP Iowa Now Accepting 2026 Community Challenge Grant Applications

AARP Iowa invites local eligible non-profit organizations and governments across the state to apply for the 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through March 4. AARP Community Challenge grants fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more.

Since its debut in 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has invested $24.3 million in 2,100 livability projects nationwide, including 42 grants and over $457,000 right here in Iowa. 

Now in its tenth year, AARP will double its investment, awarding over $8 million in grants nationwide as part of its Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for all residents, especially those age 50 and older.

This booklet highlights previous Iowa Challenge Grantees and their unique projects, which have included everything from pocket parks and trail improvements to veterans memorials and emergency preparedness kits.

AARP Iowa will host an informational webinar about the Community Challenge grant program on January 29 at 1:00 p.m. The session will include a brief overview of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, an in-depth breakdown of the three categories of Challenge Grants, examples of successful projects, and some best practices for crafting an application. Register here.

This year, the AARP Community Challenge is accepting applications across three different grant opportunities. All projects must be consistent with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of people 50 and older along with other eligibility criteria.

• Flagship grants support projects that improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and community resilience. Awards range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000. 

• Capacity-building microgrants are paired with expert support, webinars, and cohort learning for projects to improve walkability and bikeability; implement safe, accessible home modifications; and disaster preparedness training. Awards are $2,500.  
   
• Demonstration grants fund projects that encourage replication of exemplary local efforts. This year’s focus is on improving pedestrian safety, with funding support from Toyota Motor North America; expanding high-speed internet access and adoption, with funding support from Microsoft; and housing choice design competitions. Awards typically range from $10,000-$20,000, not to exceed $25,000. 

The Community Challenge is open to eligible 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations and government entities. Other types of organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis. 

The application deadline is 4:00 p.m. CT on March 4, 2026. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2026. To learn more and submit an application, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.