For many community-based organizations, funding isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s about survival, growth, and impact. Across the United States, nonprofits, schools, and grassroots sports programs are constantly searching for reliable grant opportunities that align with their missions.
One name that has emerged as a consistent supporter of community initiatives is Under Armour.
If you’ve ever Googled Under Armour grant application or free sports grants for nonprofits, you’ve likely noticed a surge in interest over the past two years. That’s because Under Armour has expanded its community grants program, directing millions of dollars toward organizations that strengthen youth development, health, fitness, education, and neighborhood revitalization.
But what separates the organizations that win funding from those that don’t? That’s where success stories come in. By looking at real examples of how schools, nonprofits, and grassroots groups successfully secured Under Armour grants, we can uncover actionable lessons for your own application.
According to Under Armour’s annual community impact report, more than $20 million has been invested since 2020 in programs that increase access to sport and education. The demand is rising, and the competition is fierce. That’s why understanding how others have positioned themselves for success is critical if you want to win in 2025 and beyond.
This article will break down inspiring success stories, highlight practical application strategies, and provide step-by-step tips that will help you stand out when pursuing the Under Armour grant application process.
Why Under Armour Grants Matter in 2025
Under Armour is not just a global sportswear brand—it’s an institution investing heavily in community resilience. Their grants go beyond athletics; they touch education, equity, and social impact.
In 2024, Under Armour announced new funding priorities through their UA Freedom and UA Community Impact programs, focusing on:
- Expanding youth access to sports.
- Supporting schools and after-school programs.
- Funding community revitalization projects in underserved neighborhoods.
- Supporting mental health and wellness initiatives through athletics.
With more nonprofits pivoting toward holistic youth development and wellness programming, this grant opportunity is increasingly relevant.
Who Is Eligible for Under Armour Grants?
Before diving into success stories, it’s important to clarify eligibility.
Most Under Armour community grants support:
- 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the U.S.
- Schools and school districts with sports or fitness initiatives.
- Community groups working on youth engagement, recreation, or health.
- Military and first responder support initiatives under the UA Freedom program.
In my experience coaching nonprofit clients, the strongest applicants highlight alignment between their mission and Under Armour’s three pillars: access, equity, and empowerment.
Success Story #1: Youth Sports Academy Secures $50,000 for Girls in Soccer
In 2023, a small nonprofit in Baltimore, Maryland, applied for the Under Armour Community Impact Grant.
Their mission?
To close the gap in access to competitive soccer opportunities for young girls in low-income communities.
What They Did Right:
- Clear Need Statement: They provided data from Maryland Department of Education showing fewer than 30% of girls in their district participated in organized sports.
- Community Partnerships: They partnered with local schools and recreation centers, showing collaboration rather than isolation.
- Equity Focus: They emphasized how this program advanced gender equity in sports—a top priority for Under Armour.
- Budget Clarity: Their proposal detailed exactly how the $50,000 would fund coaches, equipment, and scholarships.
Outcome: Not only did they receive funding, but their story was later featured in Under Armour’s annual impact report, boosting their credibility with other funders.
Success Story #2: A Rural High School Builds a Fitness Center
A rural high school in Georgia applied for an Under Armour grant in 2022 to transform an unused storage building into a fitness center for students and the community.
Key Takeaways:
- Local Data Wins: They presented county-level health stats showing that obesity rates were 10% above the national average.
- Inclusivity: The proposal emphasized access for all students, including those with disabilities.
- Long-Term Plan: They attached a sustainability plan, showing how the fitness center would be maintained beyond the grant period through partnerships with local businesses.
Result: They received $75,000, which not only funded the renovation but also created a hub for community wellness programs.
Success Story #3: Nonprofit Combats Youth Violence Through Basketball
In Chicago, a nonprofit addressing youth violence launched a basketball mentorship program and applied for the Under Armour grant.
Strategy Highlights:
- Compelling Narrative: They used testimonials from teens whose lives were impacted by violence but found purpose through basketball.
- Strong Metrics: They tracked outcomes—reduced truancy and increased school attendance.
- Alignment with Brand Values: They tied their mission to Under Armour’s focus on empowerment and resilience.
Outcome: They secured $100,000 and leveraged the visibility to attract two additional foundation funders
Success Story #4: After-School Wellness Program in Detroit
A faith-based nonprofit in Detroit applied for the Under Armour Community Grant to launch an after-school wellness program blending nutrition education and physical activity.
Application Strengths:
- Dual Approach: They didn’t just focus on sports; they combined healthy eating workshops with fitness, aligning with Under Armour’s broader wellness mission.
- Parent Engagement: They included a plan to involve families, making the program sustainable.
- Strong Storytelling: They used before-and-after student case studies to demonstrate tangible outcomes.
Outcome: They won $40,000 in funding and have since scaled the program to three schools.
Success Story #5: Veterans Fitness Initiative
Under the UA Freedom Program, a veterans’ organization in Texas applied for funding to build a specialized outdoor fitness training space for disabled veterans.
Why They Won:
- Direct Impact: The proposal linked fitness to improved physical and mental health outcomes among veterans.
- Partnerships: They had letters of support from local VA hospitals and veteran groups.
- Scalability: Their project design allowed for replication in other veteran communities.
Outcome: They received $60,000 and media coverage, which boosted awareness and additional donor support.
Insider Tips for Winning Under Armour Grants
- Lead with Data + Storytelling
Balance stats with human impact. Funders love both. - Align with UA’s Strategic Priorities
Read the most recent Under Armour Impact Report to see what they care about right now. - Show Collaboration
Demonstrate partnerships rather than working in isolation. - Think Sustainability
Funders want to know the program won’t collapse after the grant period. - Apply Early
Deadlines vary, but early submission gives room for revisions.
Common Challenges Applicants Face
- Vague Proposals: Not showing exactly where funds will go.
- Lack of Data: No measurable need or outcomes.
- Ignoring Priorities: Submitting a fitness project when UA is focused on equity that year.
- Weak Budgets: Budgets that don’t match the program narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much funding can you get from Under Armour grants?
Most awards range between $10,000 and $100,000 depending on project size and scope.
2. When is the Under Armour grant application deadline?
Deadlines vary by program, but most are announced in Q1 for funding that year.
3. Can faith-based organizations apply?
Yes, as long as the project serves the community broadly and isn’t restricted to religious programming.
4. Do applicants need to be sports-related?
Not always—wellness, education, and community revitalization are also eligible.
5. Where do I find the official application?
Applications are posted on Under Armour’s Community Impact website each cycle.
Conclusion
The difference between winning and losing a grant often comes down to how well you align your mission with the funder’s priorities. As we’ve seen from these success stories, organizations that clearly articulate need, leverage partnerships, and present sustainable models are the ones that stand out to Under Armour.
Don’t wait until the last minute—applications can close quickly, and preparation is everything. If your organization has a vision for youth empowerment, fitness, or community development, the Under Armour grant application could be your next big step.
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Resources
- Under Armour Community Impact Grants
- UA Freedom Program
- IRS Nonprofit Eligibility
- CDC Youth Physical Activity Guidelines
Suggested Reading
- How to Write a Winning Corporate Grant Application
- Corporate Grants That Support Food Pantries: Who’s Giving and How to Apply
- Building a Strategic Grant Plan for 2025
