North Dakota offers a range of grants and funding opportunities to help communities, schools, and nonprofits build or enhance sports and recreation facilities. From state-administered outdoor recreation programs to federal initiatives and private foundations, these resources support projects that promote active living, strengthen local economies, and expand access to recreation across the state.
This guide highlights the most relevant sports and recreation funding opportunities in North Dakota — 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 North Dakota
North Dakota’s state agencies — including the Parks and Recreation Department, Department of Commerce, and Game and Fish Department — manage programs that fund community recreation, outdoor access, and tourism-based development. These programs help cities, schools, and organizations build safe, sustainable facilities that serve residents and attract visitors alike.
Park District Facility Renovation Grant
Administered by the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, this program provides matching grants to assist local park districts with the renovation and improvement of existing recreation facilities. Projects often include playground upgrades, athletic field improvements, and enhancements to community recreation centers.
- Max Grant Amount: 50% matching grant (amount varies by project)
- Who Can Apply: Local park districts in North Dakota
- What It Funds: Facility renovation, playground upgrades, and community recreation improvements
- Application Deadline: December 31
- Contact/Link: Park District Facility Renovation Grant
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), administered in North Dakota by the Parks and Recreation Department, provides matching grants for outdoor recreation development and land acquisition. Projects typically include athletic fields, trails, and park expansions that enhance access to public recreation.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: State, local, and tribal governments
- What It Funds: Outdoor recreation, athletic fields, trails, and park facilities
- Application Deadline: Varies by state cycle
- Contact/Link: LWCF
Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
Administered by the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, the Recreational Trails Program provides matching grants for the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of multi-use trails and related facilities. RTP projects enhance outdoor recreation access, connect communities, and support healthy lifestyles across the state.
- 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, signage, lighting, and trail amenities
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: FHWA – RTP Program
Federal Grants Supporting Sports and Recreation in North Dakota
Federal programs such as those administered by 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 parks, trails, and recreation centers. These initiatives help North Dakota communities create and maintain recreation spaces that improve the quality of life statewide.
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG State)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides federal funding to smaller municipalities and counties for infrastructure and community projects. Many North Dakota communities use CDBG funds to develop or improve recreation facilities, parks, and playgrounds.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Local governments through the state-administered program
- What It Funds: Parks, recreation centers, and community facilities
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: HUD CDBG Program
Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
The USDA Rural Development Program provides loans and grants for essential public facilities in rural areas, including recreation and sports centers. In North Dakota, this funding supports community spaces that enhance quality of life and promote local engagement.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes
- What It Funds: Sports complexes, community centers, and recreational facilities
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development North Dakota
EPA Brownfields & Greenfields Program
The EPA Brownfields Program provides funding for the assessment and cleanup of underutilized or contaminated land. North Dakota communities can use these funds to redevelop properties into new parks, sports fields, or 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 recreation, parks, or community facilities
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: EPA Brownfields Program
Rural Development Grant
The USDA Rural Development Grant program provides funding for community infrastructure and recreation projects in rural areas. North Dakota communities can use this program to build parks, upgrade athletic facilities, or create new recreation spaces.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes
- What It Funds: Parks, recreation facilities, and community spaces
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development North Dakota
U.S. Department of Energy – Renew America’s Schools
The Renew America’s Schools program funds energy-efficiency upgrades for K–12 school facilities, including gymnasiums and recreation centers. North Dakota schools and nonprofit partners can apply to improve lighting, HVAC systems, and building performance in sports and recreation spaces.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools and nonprofit organizations working on behalf of schools
- What It Funds: LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, and renewable energy systems
- Application Deadline: April
- Contact/Link: DOE – Renew America’s Schools
UPARR Program
The Urban Park and Recreation Recovery (UPARR) program provides federal funding for park and recreation improvements in economically disadvantaged urban areas. North Dakota municipalities can use this program to renovate playgrounds, athletic fields, and community centers.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: Economically disadvantaged urban communities
- What It Funds: Playground construction, field upgrades, and recreation facilities
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: UPARR Program
Nonprofit and Private Sports Grants in North Dakota
Private foundations and nonprofit organizations play an important role in supporting recreation and wellness projects across North Dakota. Their grants often fund community centers, athletic field upgrades, and youth sports programs that promote participation and accessibility.
NRPA / Bobcat Company Improvement Grant Program
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), in partnership with Bobcat Company, funds small-scale community improvement projects across the U.S. North Dakota municipalities and nonprofits can apply to improve local parks, playgrounds, and recreation facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: $50,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and government entities
- What It Funds: Community recreation facilities and park improvements
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
The National Recreation and Park Association Grants
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) offers multiple grant programs to fund public parks, fitness areas, and outdoor recreation facilities. North Dakota organizations can use these grants to develop playgrounds, outdoor sports facilities, and wellness-focused spaces.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by program
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, park and recreation agencies, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, sports fields, and outdoor recreation infrastructure
- Application Deadline: Varies by grant
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
Sports Matter Grant
Funded by Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, the Sports Matter Grant helps youth sports organizations improve facilities, purchase equipment, and grow participation in athletic programs.
- Max Grant Amount: $25,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Youth sports facilities, equipment, and participation costs
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: Sports Matter Grants
Sport-Specific Grants and Funding in North Dakota
Several national and regional sports organizations provide funding for facility development and program expansion in specific sports like baseball, soccer, tennis, football, and track and field. These grants help North Dakota communities and schools create safe, modern, and inclusive sports environments.
MLB Baseball Youth Development Foundation
The MLB Youth Development Foundation funds projects that expand youth baseball and softball participation. In North Dakota, communities can use this funding for field construction, renovations, or new training facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Baseball and softball fields, renovations, and programming
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: MLB Youth Development Foundation
NFL Foundation Grassroots Program
The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program provides funding to build or renovate football fields in underserved communities. North Dakota organizations can apply for support to upgrade turf, lighting, and safety features for youth football programs.
- Max Grant Amount: $250,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Football field construction, renovation, and safety upgrades
- 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 facility construction and renovation projects. In North Dakota, organizations can use this funding to develop fields, mini-pitches, or lighting installations that expand access to the sport.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and community organizations
- What It Funds: Soccer fields, mini-pitches, and lighting upgrades
- Application Deadline: Multiple cycles
- Contact/Link: Safe Places to Play
USTA Facility Assistance Program
The USTA Facility Assistance Program provides funding and technical support for tennis facility development. North Dakota schools and communities can apply for assistance to resurface courts, install lighting, or expand tennis access.
- Max Grant Amount: $55,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Tennis court resurfacing, new construction, and lighting improvements
- Application Deadline: None
- Contact/Link: USTA Facility Assistance Program
USA Track & Field (USATF) Grants
The USATF Foundation provides grants to support facility development and participation in track and field. North Dakota organizations can use these funds for track resurfacing, new facility construction, or field event area improvements.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools, clubs, and community organizations (varies by program)
- What It Funds: Track resurfacing, construction, and field facility upgrades
- Application Deadline: Varies by program
- Contact/Link: USATF Foundation Grants
USA Football Grant Program
The USA Football Grant Program funds safety and equipment upgrades for youth, middle school, and high school football programs. North Dakota schools and nonprofits can apply for assistance with field maintenance, equipment purchases, and safety initiatives.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: U.S.-based tax-exempt youth or school football programs
- What It Funds: Equipment, field improvements, and safety enhancements
- Application Deadline: Varies
- Contact/Link: USA Football Grants
All Kids Play – Youth Sports Grants
The All Kids Play program funds nonprofit organizations that promote youth participation in organized sports. North Dakota communities can use this program to upgrade facilities, purchase equipment, or reduce participation costs for families.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits serving low-income or underserved youth communities
- What It Funds: Equipment, facility improvements, and participation subsidies
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: All Kids Play Grants
Funding for Private Developers & Businesses in North Dakota
Private developers and business owners in North Dakota can access a range of state and federal programs that encourage investment in tourism, recreation, and community infrastructure. These initiatives support the development of sports complexes, event venues, and outdoor recreation spaces that strengthen local economies and improve quality of life statewide.
North Dakota Department of Commerce – Economic Development & Community Incentives
The North Dakota Department of Commerce provides multiple programs to attract and support business and community development projects. Developers working on recreation, sports, or tourism-related projects may qualify for the following:
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Economic Development Component: Offers funding for infrastructure and public facility improvements tied to business growth or tourism-driven projects, including recreation facilities.
- Flex PACE Program: Reduces interest rates on commercial loans for qualifying businesses or developments that enhance community infrastructure, including recreation facilities and wellness centers.
- Renaissance Zone Program: Provides property and income tax exemptions for qualifying development projects in designated urban areas, including recreation and tourism facilities that drive revitalization.
These programs help private developers offset costs for large-scale projects that create long-term community and economic benefits.
North Dakota Department of Commerce – Tourism Expansion Grant Program
The Tourism Expansion Grant Program, administered by the North Dakota Tourism Division, supports businesses and organizations that develop new or expanded tourism attractions.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project scope and impact
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, municipalities, and private developers creating tourism-oriented projects
- What It Funds: New or expanded recreation facilities, sports complexes, and event spaces that attract visitors to the state
- Application Deadline: Annual cycle (typically fall)
This program is especially valuable for developers investing in projects that enhance North Dakota’s outdoor recreation and tourism economy.
Opportunity Zones
North Dakota has 25 federally designated Opportunity Zones located across both urban and rural regions, including Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, and Dickinson. Investors who reinvest capital gains into qualifying projects within these zones can defer or reduce federal taxes while helping to revitalize communities.
- Eligible Projects: Sports and recreation complexes, event centers, and mixed-use developments that promote tourism and economic growth.
- Program Benefits: Federal capital gains tax deferral and partial exclusion after long-term investment.
Bank of North Dakota (BND) – Business Development Loan Programs
The Bank of North Dakota (BND) offers several financing programs to support business and community development, including recreation and tourism projects.
- PACE and Flex PACE Programs: Interest rate buydown options for new construction or expansion projects that improve community infrastructure, including sports and recreation facilities.
- Commercial Bank Participation Loans: Financing for developers building community facilities or tourism-related assets.
- Infrastructure Loan Program: Supports municipalities and developers in financing utility and access improvements for public-use projects.
These programs can significantly reduce financing costs for recreation and community projects while encouraging long-term investment across the state.
Local and Regional Development Incentives
Cities and counties throughout North Dakota provide additional incentives for recreation and community-based development projects.
- Fargo: Offers Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and the Renaissance Zone Program to encourage downtown revitalization and mixed-use projects that include recreation spaces.
- Bismarck: Provides Economic Development Grants and infrastructure assistance for developments that attract visitors or improve public access to recreation.
- Grand Forks: Uses Growth Fund loans and grants to support business and community facilities that promote economic and tourism growth.
- Minot: Offers Community Facilities Loans and public-private partnership opportunities for recreation and event space development.
These programs, when combined with state and federal initiatives, create strong financial opportunities for developers looking to invest in sports and recreation facilities across North Dakota.
Utilities Rebates and Green Incentives in North Dakota
Sports and recreation facilities in North Dakota can reduce operational costs and improve sustainability through utility-sponsored programs that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption. These initiatives provide rebates, custom incentives, and technical assistance for lighting, HVAC, and renewable energy upgrades — ideal for gymnasiums, arenas, and outdoor recreation facilities.
Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy offers comprehensive commercial energy-efficiency programs to help businesses and organizations lower energy consumption and operational costs.
- Lighting Efficiency Rebates: Incentives for LED lighting and advanced control systems for indoor gyms, arenas, and outdoor field lighting.
- HVAC and Equipment Rebates: Rebates for high-efficiency furnaces, boilers, and cooling systems.
- Custom Efficiency Projects: Tailored incentives for unique energy-saving measures such as pool heating or dehumidification in recreation centers.
- Energy Design Assistance: Free consulting for new construction projects to optimize building energy performance.
Xcel Energy’s programs are ideal for large community recreation facilities and sports complexes aiming to reduce costs through smart energy management.
Montana-Dakota Utilities (MDU)
Montana-Dakota Utilities provides programs focused on improving natural gas efficiency for commercial and community facilities across North Dakota.
- High-Efficiency Equipment Rebates: Funding for boilers, furnaces, and water heaters that improve heating efficiency.
- Custom Energy Projects: Rebates for facilities implementing gas-saving technologies, such as pool heating or water management systems.
- Energy Audits and Support: Technical guidance and energy modeling to identify efficiency opportunities in recreation and sports facilities.
These programs are especially beneficial for indoor facilities, aquatic centers, and multi-use recreation buildings with high heating demands.
Cass County Electric Cooperative
Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) serves southeastern North Dakota and provides incentive programs to improve facility efficiency and support renewable energy integration.
- Lighting Rebates: Incentives for converting gymnasium, field, and parking lot lighting to LED.
- HVAC and Building Controls Rebates: Funding for energy-efficient systems, automation controls, and variable-speed drives.
- Renewable Energy Support: Guidance and interconnection assistance for installing solar or small-scale wind systems.
- On-Bill Financing: Energy project costs can be financed through the utility bill for eligible members.
CCEC also partners with local governments and nonprofits on sustainability initiatives that support public recreation infrastructure.
Nodak Electric Cooperative
Nodak Electric Cooperative provides commercial efficiency programs and incentives that help schools, municipalities, and community facilities lower utility costs.
- Lighting and HVAC Rebates: Cash incentives for energy-efficient lighting and heating systems.
- Demand Reduction Programs: Bill credits for facilities that reduce energy usage during peak times.
- Renewable Energy Options: Support for solar and distributed generation projects that offset long-term operating costs.
- Energy Audits: Free facility assessments to identify cost-effective energy upgrades.
Nodak Electric’s programs are particularly useful for recreation projects in small and rural communities across eastern North Dakota.
Verendrye Electric Cooperative
Verendrye Electric Cooperative offers efficiency rebates and renewable energy support to reduce energy use in community and commercial facilities.
- LED Lighting Rebates: Incentives for high-efficiency interior and exterior lighting projects.
- HVAC Efficiency Programs: Rebates for air-source and geothermal heat pumps.
- Renewable Energy Integration: Assistance with connecting solar or wind energy systems to existing facilities.
- Energy Loan Program: Low-interest loans for members completing energy-efficient upgrades.
Verendrye’s programs align with North Dakota’s commitment to sustainability and are especially valuable for small-town recreation and youth sports facilities.
North Dakota Department of Commerce – State Energy Program (SEP)
The State Energy Program (SEP), managed by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, helps public facilities implement energy-efficiency and renewable energy projects.
- What It Funds: Lighting, HVAC, and renewable energy upgrades for public or nonprofit buildings.
- Who Can Apply: Municipalities, schools, and other public facility owners.
- Program Benefits: Access to technical assistance, grant coordination, and financing options for energy improvements.
By combining utility rebates, state programs, and renewable energy incentives, North Dakota communities can create cost-effective, sustainable sports and recreation facilities that serve generations to come.
City-Level and Regional Funding Opportunities in North Dakota
Cities across North Dakota fund parks, trails, and athletic facilities through local budgets, bond measures, and partnerships with state and federal programs. Many also collaborate with local nonprofits, tourism boards, and regional utilities to improve recreation access and promote community health and growth.
Fargo
Fargo’s Park District manages over 2,100 acres of parkland, sports complexes, and community recreation facilities. Funding comes from the city’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), user fees, and grants from state and federal sources such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The Park District also partners with Cass County Electric Cooperative and local developers to create sustainable, energy-efficient facilities. Fargo’s focus on community health and year-round recreation drives ongoing investment in athletic and wellness spaces.
Bismarck
Bismarck’s Parks and Recreation District funds facility construction, playground improvements, and athletic field upgrades through local capital funds and partnerships with the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department. The city leverages programs such as LWCF, Park District Facility Renovation Grants, and CDBG to support recreation projects. Bismarck’s Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan guides ongoing investments in trails, sports complexes, and public green spaces to enhance accessibility and sustainability.
Grand Forks
Grand Forks’ Park District develops and maintains city parks, athletic facilities, and recreation programs through a mix of local tax revenue, grants, and partnerships. The city frequently applies for RTP and LWCF funds to expand trail networks and athletic fields. It also collaborates with Grand Forks Public Schools and the University of North Dakota to co-fund shared athletic facilities that serve students and residents alike. Energy-efficiency improvements in recreation buildings are supported through Xcel Energy and EnergizeND programs.
Minot
Minot’s Parks and Recreation Department oversees parks, golf courses, and sports complexes funded by local tax allocations, capital budgets, and state recreation grants. The city uses Park District Facility Renovation and Tourism Expansion Grants to update playgrounds, improve athletic fields, and develop outdoor recreation amenities. Minot also partners with Verendrye Electric Cooperative and Northwestern Energy to modernize lighting and improve sustainability in public facilities.
Dickinson
Dickinson’s Parks and Recreation Department invests in parks, trails, and athletic facilities using a combination of city capital funding, local sales tax revenue, and state and federal grants such as LWCF and RTP. The city collaborates with the Dickinson Area Community Foundation and Southwest Area Chamber of Commerce to develop tourism-focused recreation projects. Recent investments have included ballfield lighting upgrades, trail extensions, and community recreation center expansions that align with the city’s growing population and visitor activity.
Start Planning Your North Dakota Sports Facility Project
From Fargo’s vibrant park network to Bismarck’s expanding recreation spaces and Grand Forks’ community-driven sports partnerships, North Dakota continues to invest in facilities that strengthen local communities and enhance quality of life. With robust state programs, federal funding, and private investment opportunities, the state provides a strong foundation for turning sports and recreation plans into lasting community assets.
Before applying, define your project’s goals, community benefits, and long-term sustainability vision. North Dakota funders — from the Parks and Recreation Department to the Department of Commerce and the Tourism Division — prioritize projects that promote accessibility, economic development, and year-round outdoor recreation.
Sports Venue Calculator helps you take the next step. Use our tools to estimate construction costs, explore design options, and build a funding strategy tailored to your goals. With the right planning and partnerships, your North Dakota sports facility can become a cornerstone for recreation, tourism, and community growth.
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