New Hampshire offers a range of grants and funding programs to help communities, schools, and nonprofits build or enhance sports and recreation facilities. From state-managed outdoor recreation initiatives to federal programs and private foundations, these resources support projects that promote active living, community health, and local economic growth.
This guide highlights the most relevant sports and recreation funding opportunities in New Hampshire — helping you identify programs, plan your applications, and secure support for your next facility project.
👉 If you’re in a hurry, download our 65-page Grants Guide with state-by-state funding programs—or explore the largest grants database in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to sports facility development, updated continuously to keep you ahead.
State-Level Funding for Sports Facilities in New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s state agencies — including the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), the Division of Parks and Recreation, and the Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development — manage programs that fund park improvements, athletic facilities, and trail development. These state initiatives often focus on outdoor access, tourism, and sustainable community recreation.
Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
Administered by the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), the Recreational Trails Program provides matching grants to support the development and maintenance of trail systems across the state. RTP funding strengthens outdoor recreation infrastructure, helping communities expand access to walking, hiking, and multi-use trails.
- Max Grant Amount: Up to $200,000 (requires a 20% local match)
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, state agencies, and federal agencies
- What It Funds: Trail construction, rehabilitation, and related facilities such as signage, lighting, and rest areas
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: FHWA – RTP Program
Federal Grants Supporting Sports and Recreation in New Hampshire
Federal programs administered by agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provide critical funding for recreation and community infrastructure projects. These grants support New Hampshire communities in building and maintaining parks, trails, and sports facilities.
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG State)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides funding to New Hampshire’s smaller municipalities and counties for public infrastructure and facility improvements. Many communities use these funds to develop or enhance parks, playgrounds, and recreation centers that support local residents.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Local governments through the state-administered program
- What It Funds: Parks, playgrounds, community centers, and recreational facilities
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: HUD CDBG Program
Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
Administered by USDA Rural Development, this program provides loans and grants to finance essential community facilities in rural areas. In New Hampshire, the program helps fund recreation centers, sports complexes, and community spaces that encourage healthy lifestyles.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural areas
- What It Funds: Recreational facilities, sports complexes, and community centers
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development New Hampshire
EPA Brownfields & Greenfields Program
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Program funds the assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment of underused or contaminated land. New Hampshire communities can use these funds to transform vacant or industrial properties into parks, athletic fields, or community recreation centers.
- Max Grant Amount: $500,000–$2 million
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, states, tribes, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Cleanup and redevelopment for parks, recreation, and public-use facilities
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: EPA Brownfields Program
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provides matching grants to develop outdoor recreation facilities and park spaces. In New Hampshire, LWCF funds are managed by the Division of Parks and Recreation and support park construction, trail development, and sports facility upgrades.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: State, local, and tribal governments
- What It Funds: Outdoor recreation areas, athletic fields, and trail systems
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: LWCF
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP)
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Program provides federal funding for outdoor recreation projects in underserved urban communities. In New Hampshire, ORLP supports the construction or renovation of playgrounds, sports fields, and parks that expand equitable access to recreation.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, states, tribes, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, athletic fields, and outdoor recreation facilities
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: LWCF Coalition – ORLP Program
Rural Development Grant
The USDA’s Rural Development Grant program funds community infrastructure projects that improve the quality of life in rural areas. In New Hampshire, this includes recreation centers, parks, and sports facilities that serve local residents and encourage outdoor activity.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural areas
- What It Funds: Recreation and sports facility construction and improvement projects
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development New Hampshire
UPARR Program
The Urban Park and Recreation Recovery (UPARR) program provides federal grants to economically disadvantaged urban communities for recreation facility development and revitalization. In New Hampshire, this can include upgrades to athletic fields, playgrounds, and recreation centers that promote public access to safe and inclusive recreation.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: Economically disadvantaged urban communities
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, athletic fields, and recreation facilities
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: UPARR Program
U.S. Department of Energy – Renew America’s Schools
This federal program funds energy-efficiency upgrades for K–12 school facilities, including gyms, athletic centers, and recreation spaces. New Hampshire schools and nonprofit partners can apply for funding to install LED lighting, modernize HVAC systems, and integrate renewable energy solutions.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools and nonprofit organizations working on behalf of schools
- What It Funds: Energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and renewable energy infrastructure
- Application Deadline: April
- Contact/Link: DOE – Renew America’s Schools
Nonprofit and Private Sports Grants in New Hampshire
Private foundations and nonprofit organizations also play an important role in strengthening New Hampshire’s recreation network. Their grants support youth programs, community health initiatives, and facility improvements that promote participation, inclusion, and physical well-being.
Baird Foundation
The Baird Foundation funds projects that promote education, recreation, and community health. In New Hampshire, grants may support park and facility development projects that create access to recreation and wellness opportunities.
- Max Grant Amount: $50,000
- Who Can Apply: Tax-exempt nonprofits, schools, colleges, and government entities
- What It Funds: Community recreation facilities and improvement projects
- Application Deadline: None (applications accepted year-round)
- Contact: 936 Delaware Avenue, Suite 207, Buffalo, NY 14209
NRPA / Bobcat Company Improvement Grant Program
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), in partnership with Bobcat Company, offers small-scale grants for community recreation and park improvement projects. New Hampshire organizations can use these funds to enhance parks, playgrounds, and outdoor facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: $50,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, colleges, and government entities
- What It Funds: Park and recreation facility improvements
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
The National Recreation and Park Association Grants
NRPA’s broader grant programs fund larger park and recreation initiatives nationwide. New Hampshire municipalities and nonprofits can apply for funding to build playgrounds, outdoor fitness areas, and multi-purpose sports facilities that promote healthy, active lifestyles.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by grant
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, park agencies, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, outdoor sports facilities, and community wellness projects
- Application Deadline: Varies by grant
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
Sports Matter Grant
The Sports Matter Grant, funded by Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, supports youth sports organizations with grants for facilities, equipment, and program expansion.
- Max Grant Amount: $25,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Youth sports facility improvements, safety upgrades, and program development
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: Sports Matter Grants
Sport-Specific Grants and Funding in New Hampshire
Several national and regional sports organizations offer grants dedicated to their respective sports. These programs help New Hampshire schools, clubs, and municipalities enhance facilities for baseball, soccer, tennis, football, and track and field, fostering opportunities for youth participation and athletic development statewide.
MLB Baseball Youth Development Foundation
The MLB Youth Development Foundation provides funding for baseball and softball facilities and programs that encourage youth participation. New Hampshire organizations can use funds for field construction, renovations, and equipment.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Baseball and softball facility construction, renovations, and programming
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: MLB Youth Development Foundation
NFL Foundation Grassroots Program
The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program helps fund the construction and renovation of football fields in underserved communities. In New Hampshire, eligible projects include turf installation, lighting, and safety upgrades for youth and community programs.
- Max Grant Amount: $250,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Youth football field construction and renovation
- Application Deadline: Spring
- Contact/Link: NFL Foundation Grassroots
Safe Places to Play Grants
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Safe Places to Play program funds soccer field construction, resurfacing, and lighting upgrades nationwide. In New Hampshire, communities can use this program to improve access to safe, high-quality soccer facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and community-based organizations
- What It Funds: Soccer fields, mini-pitches, and lighting installations
- Application Deadline: Multiple cycles
- Contact/Link: U.S. Soccer Foundation – Safe Places to Play
USTA Facility Assistance Program
The USTA Facility Assistance Program provides funding and technical guidance for tennis facility development, resurfacing, and lighting improvements. In New Hampshire, these funds can help schools, nonprofits, and clubs upgrade public-access tennis courts to encourage participation and accessibility.
- Max Grant Amount: $55,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Tennis court resurfacing, new court construction, and lighting upgrades
- Application Deadline: None
- Contact/Link: USTA Facility Assistance Program
USA Track & Field (USATF) Grants
The USATF Foundation offers grants to expand access to track and field while improving facility quality. New Hampshire schools and clubs can use these funds for resurfacing running tracks, building field event areas, and supporting athletic programming.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools, clubs, and community organizations (varies by program)
- What It Funds: Track resurfacing, construction, and field event area upgrades
- Application Deadline: Varies by program
- Contact/Link: USATF Foundation Grants
USA Football Grant Program
The USA Football Grant Program funds improvements to youth, middle school, and high school football programs across the U.S. In New Hampshire, organizations can use funding for field upgrades, safety equipment, and player development resources.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: U.S.-based tax-exempt youth or school football programs
- What It Funds: Equipment, field maintenance, and safety enhancements
- Application Deadline: Varies
- Contact/Link: USA Football Grants
All Kids Play – Youth Sports Grants
All Kids Play helps children in low-income communities access organized sports by funding facility improvements, equipment purchases, and participation subsidies. New Hampshire nonprofits can apply to enhance access and inclusion in community sports programs.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits serving low-income or underserved youth communities
- What It Funds: Equipment, facility upgrades, and participation support
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: All Kids Play Grants
Funding for Private Developers & Businesses in New Hampshire
Private developers and business owners in New Hampshire can take advantage of several state and federal programs that promote community development, tourism, and recreation-based investment. These initiatives help fund projects that enhance public spaces, create jobs, and attract visitors — including sports complexes, event centers, and outdoor recreation facilities.
New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) Incentives
The New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) administers programs that support capital investment and community-focused development. Developers working on sports or recreation-related projects may qualify for:
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Economic Development Component: Provides funding for infrastructure improvements supporting business growth and tourism-related developments, including sports and recreation facilities.
- Business Finance Authority (BFA) Loan Guarantee Program: Offers financial backing for commercial projects that create jobs and enhance community vitality, which may include mixed-use or recreation projects.
- Tax-Exempt Revenue Bonds: Assist in financing large-scale construction projects with a public benefit, such as sports complexes or event venues that serve local residents and visitors.
These programs make New Hampshire particularly attractive for developers focused on community enrichment and economic revitalization.
New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development (DTTD) – Joint Promotional Program
The New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development (DTTD) offers the Joint Promotional Program (JPP), which provides matching funds to promote tourism-oriented projects and events. Developers can partner with municipalities or tourism organizations to market recreation facilities and sports-related destinations.
- Max Grant Amount: Typically up to $100,000 (50/50 match required)
- Who Can Apply: Businesses, destination marketing organizations, and public-private partnerships
- What It Funds: Tourism marketing, sports and recreation promotion, and event development that draws visitors to the state
- Application Deadline: Annual cycle
Opportunity Zones
New Hampshire has 27 federally designated Opportunity Zones located in cities such as Manchester, Nashua, Concord, and Berlin. Investors who reinvest capital gains into qualified projects in these zones can defer or reduce federal taxes while contributing to community and economic growth.
- Eligible Projects: Sports and recreation complexes, event centers, and mixed-use venues that stimulate tourism and local business activity.
- Program Benefits: Federal capital gains tax deferral and potential exclusion after long-term investment.
Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program
The Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program, administered by the New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources, offers a credit for the restoration and reuse of historic structures. Developers who renovate older buildings for community or recreation use can qualify for this credit.
- Max Credit: 20% of qualified rehabilitation expenses
- Who Can Apply: Developers or property owners renovating historic commercial properties
- What It Funds: Rehabilitation of historic structures used as recreation centers, event venues, or mixed-use facilities
Local Development Incentives
Cities and towns across New Hampshire offer additional incentives to attract projects that promote recreation, tourism, and local growth.
- Manchester and Nashua: Offer Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for public infrastructure that supports large-scale developments such as sports or entertainment complexes.
- Portsmouth and Concord: Provide expedited permitting and zoning assistance for projects that improve recreation and waterfront access.
- Laconia and Berlin: Offer local grants or property tax abatements for developments that create jobs and enhance community recreation.
By combining these programs with state and federal grants, private developers in New Hampshire can fund sports and recreation projects that drive both economic and community impact.
Utilities Rebates and Green Incentives in New Hampshire
Sports and recreation facilities in New Hampshire can take advantage of energy-efficiency and sustainability programs offered by the state’s major utilities. These initiatives provide rebates, technical support, and financing options for lighting, HVAC, and renewable energy systems — helping communities and developers reduce costs while building environmentally responsible facilities.
Eversource Energy
Eversource offers a wide range of energy-efficiency programs that provide rebates and incentives for public, commercial, and nonprofit facilities across New Hampshire.
- Lighting and Controls Rebates: Incentives for upgrading gymnasiums, arenas, and outdoor field lighting to high-efficiency LED systems.
- HVAC and Building System Upgrades: Rebates for efficient heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, as well as energy management controls.
- Custom Efficiency Programs: Tailored incentives for recreation centers or sports complexes that achieve measurable energy savings.
Eversource also offers design assistance for new construction to help developers integrate energy-efficient features from the start of a project.
Unitil Energy Systems
Unitil Energy Systems provides energy-efficiency rebates and support for facilities upgrading equipment and systems to improve performance and reduce energy use.
- Prescriptive Rebates: Available for lighting, HVAC, and refrigeration upgrades in public and private recreation facilities.
- Custom Rebates: Incentives for larger projects that demonstrate significant energy savings, such as HVAC automation or solar-ready designs.
- Engineering and Design Support: Technical consultations to identify cost-effective opportunities during facility design and renovation.
Unitil’s programs are particularly beneficial for community recreation centers, ice arenas, and multi-use sports complexes with high energy demands.
New Hampshire Electric Cooperative (NHEC)
New Hampshire Electric Cooperative offers comprehensive programs for energy efficiency and renewable energy integration tailored to the state’s rural communities.
- Commercial Lighting Incentives: Rebates for indoor and outdoor LED lighting conversions, including gym and field lighting.
- HVAC and Equipment Rebates: Incentives for energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
- Renewable Energy Support: Rebates and net-metering options for solar, geothermal, or small-scale wind systems that power community or recreation facilities.
NHEC’s programs also include financing options for public and nonprofit projects that want to lower upfront costs while investing in long-term energy efficiency.
Liberty Utilities
Liberty Utilities provides natural gas and energy-efficiency programs that help commercial and community facilities lower utility costs.
- High-Efficiency Equipment Rebates: Incentives for boilers, furnaces, and water heaters designed to reduce energy use.
- Custom Rebates: For facilities that implement significant natural gas-saving projects such as pool heating or centralized water systems.
- Technical Support: Engineering assistance for optimizing gas usage in high-demand facilities like aquatic centers or gyms.
These programs are especially useful for recreation centers and sports complexes that rely on natural gas systems for heating or hot water.
New Hampshire Office of Energy and Sustainability
The New Hampshire Office of Energy and Sustainability, within the Department of Energy, offers statewide programs that promote clean energy adoption and efficient facility design.
- State Energy Program (SEP): Provides technical assistance and limited funding for public facility energy-efficiency projects.
- Energy Benchmarking Tools: Helps municipalities and facility owners track performance, identify savings opportunities, and apply for available incentives.
- Clean Energy Resources: Information on combining state and utility programs for recreation facilities seeking deeper energy savings.
By combining these utility rebates and energy-efficiency initiatives, New Hampshire communities and developers can build and operate modern, energy-smart sports and recreation facilities that support both financial and environmental sustainability.
City-Level and Regional Funding Opportunities in New Hampshire
Cities and towns across New Hampshire invest in parks, trails, and recreation facilities through capital improvement programs, local grants, and partnerships with state and federal agencies. Many also collaborate with nonprofits and business organizations to expand access to active, inclusive, and sustainable recreation opportunities.
Manchester
Manchester’s Parks, Recreation, and Cemetery Division oversees the development and maintenance of city parks, playgrounds, and athletic facilities. Projects are funded through the city’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), local bond measures, and federal programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Manchester also partners with the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission and local sports organizations to fund field renovations and trail projects that encourage community activity.
Nashua
Nashua’s Parks and Recreation Department manages a wide network of sports fields, community centers, and public parks. Funding comes from the city’s Capital Projects Fund, user fees, and grants from state and federal agencies. Nashua also uses hotel and meals tax revenue to fund tourism-related recreation projects and often partners with the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) to enhance outdoor spaces through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
Concord
Concord’s Parks and Recreation Department invests in community wellness through park upgrades, new playgrounds, and athletic facility improvements. The city secures funding through its Capital Improvement Plan, as well as state programs such as the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP), which supports park and open-space preservation. Concord also partners with local foundations and nonprofits to co-fund recreation projects that promote health and sustainability.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth’s Recreation Department manages sports complexes, community centers, and outdoor spaces funded by city appropriations, tourism revenues, and partnerships with private sponsors. The city’s Portsmouth 400 Initiative and Blue Ribbon Recreation Committee prioritize waterfront improvements, trail connectivity, and park revitalization. Portsmouth frequently applies for matching grants through the LWCF and RTP to support new recreation developments.
Laconia
Laconia’s Parks and Recreation Department focuses on maintaining high-quality parks and athletic facilities that serve both residents and visitors. Funding is drawn from local impact fees, tourism revenue, and collaboration with the Lakes Region Planning Commission. The city also benefits from the New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development’s Joint Promotional Program, which helps fund events and facilities that support regional recreation and tourism.
Start Planning Your New Hampshire Sports Facility Project
From Manchester’s urban park revitalizations to Concord’s community wellness initiatives and Portsmouth’s waterfront recreation projects, New Hampshire continues to invest in spaces that strengthen communities and enhance quality of life. With support from state programs, federal funding, and local partnerships, the Granite State offers countless opportunities to turn recreation and sports facility plans into reality.
Before applying, define your project’s goals, scope, and community benefits. New Hampshire funders — from the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to the Division of Travel and Tourism Development — prioritize projects that promote active living, sustainability, and tourism while preserving the state’s natural character.
Sports Venue Calculator helps you take the next step. Use our tools to estimate construction costs, compare surface options, and create a funding strategy that fits your vision. With the right plan and partnerships, your New Hampshire sports facility can become a lasting investment in health, connection, and community pride.
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