Recreation plays a central role in Wyoming’s wide-open communities — from small-town parks to destination trail systems and regional sports complexes. To support that spirit, a range of grants and funding programs help towns, schools, and nonprofits build and enhance the facilities that keep residents active and attract visitors from across the region. State initiatives, federal programs, and private foundations all contribute to projects that boost local economies, promote wellness, and celebrate Wyoming’s outdoor heritage.
This guide outlines key funding opportunities for sports and recreation facilities throughout Wyoming — designed to help you explore available programs, prepare strong applications, and bring your community’s next great project to life.
👉 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 Wyoming
Wyoming’s state agencies — including the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, the Office of Outdoor Recreation, and the Business Council — manage funding programs that support park improvements, trail systems, and community recreation facilities. These programs help local governments and organizations create spaces that promote outdoor access, tourism, and long-term community growth.
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
Administered by the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provides matching grants to develop and enhance outdoor recreation facilities statewide. The program supports projects that preserve open spaces and promote access to recreation across Wyoming’s rural and urban communities.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: State, local, and tribal governments
- What It Funds: Park improvements, playgrounds, athletic fields, and recreation areas
- Application Deadline: Varies by state cycle
- Contact/Link: LWCF
Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
Administered by the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides matching grants to support the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of recreational trails across the state. The program promotes outdoor access and sustainable trail systems for both motorized and non-motorized users.
- 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, and safety amenities
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: FHWA – RTP Program
Federal Grants Supporting Sports and Recreation in Wyoming
Federal programs such as those managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provide crucial funding for recreation and infrastructure projects. These grants help Wyoming communities develop and maintain athletic facilities, trails, and parks that improve quality of life statewide.
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG State)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides federal funding for infrastructure and public facility projects that benefit low- and moderate-income residents. Wyoming municipalities often use CDBG funds to build or improve parks, playgrounds, and community recreation facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Local governments through the state-administered program
- What It Funds: Parks, playgrounds, recreation centers, and community facilities
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: HUD CDBG Program
Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
Administered by USDA Rural Development, this program offers grants and low-interest loans for essential community facilities in rural areas. In Wyoming, funding supports recreation centers, parks, and sports complexes that improve community engagement and health.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural areas
- What It Funds: Sports facilities, recreation centers, and public-use infrastructure
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development Wyoming
EPA Brownfields & Greenfields Program
The EPA Brownfields Program funds the cleanup and redevelopment of underutilized or contaminated sites. Wyoming communities can repurpose these properties into safe and usable public spaces such as parks, sports complexes, or recreation centers.
- Max Grant Amount: $500,000–$2 million
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, states, tribes, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Site remediation and redevelopment for recreation and community facilities
- Application Deadline: Typically November
- Contact/Link: EPA Brownfields Program
Rural Development Grant
The USDA Rural Development Grant program provides financial support for essential community projects that benefit rural populations. In Wyoming, this includes funding for recreation facilities, public parks, and sports complexes that enhance local quality of life.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes
- What It Funds: Recreation facilities, community centers, and park infrastructure
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development Wyoming
U.S. Department of Energy – Renew America’s Schools
The Renew America’s Schools program funds energy-efficiency upgrades for K–12 public school facilities, including gyms and recreation centers. Wyoming schools and nonprofit partners can use the program to modernize lighting, HVAC systems, and renewable energy features.
- 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 improvements
- Application Deadline: April
- Contact/Link: DOE – Renew America’s Schools
UPARR Program
The Urban Park and Recreation Recovery (UPARR) program provides federal funding to revitalize recreation facilities in economically disadvantaged areas. Wyoming municipalities can use these funds for park renovation, playground development, or the construction of community recreation centers.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: Economically disadvantaged urban communities
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, athletic fields, and recreation centers
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: UPARR Program
Nonprofit and Private Sports Grants in Wyoming
Private foundations and nonprofit organizations contribute significantly to recreation and wellness across Wyoming. Their grants often support youth sports, community facilities, and outdoor access — ensuring that recreation is accessible and beneficial to all residents.
Daniels Fund
The Daniels Fund supports projects that advance education, youth development, and community enrichment throughout Wyoming and neighboring states. Recreation-related funding often includes grants for youth sports facilities, community recreation centers, and park improvements.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified (average $75,000)
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, colleges, and government entities
- What It Funds: Youth sports facilities, community recreation projects, and athletic programs
- Application Deadline: None (accepts inquiries year-round)
- Contact/Link: Daniels Fund
Community Foundation of Jackson Hole – Competitive Grants Program
The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole provides annual grants to strengthen local communities and improve quality of life. Funding supports recreation projects such as park upgrades, playground construction, and community sports programs.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and government entities serving Teton County
- What It Funds: Recreation facilities, parks, trails, and athletic fields
- Application Deadline: October 31
- Contact/Link: Community Foundation of Jackson Hole Grants
NRPA / Bobcat Company Improvement Grant Program
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), in partnership with Bobcat Company, funds small-scale community improvement projects that enhance parks and recreation facilities. Wyoming municipalities and nonprofits can apply for support to improve outdoor public spaces.
- Max Grant Amount: $50,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and local governments
- What It Funds: Park upgrades, playgrounds, and recreation facility 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 opportunities for communities to improve parks and recreation spaces. Wyoming organizations can use these grants to enhance playgrounds, sports fields, and fitness zones.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by program
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, park agencies, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, sports fields, outdoor fitness areas, and recreation improvements
- Application Deadline: Varies by grant
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
Sports Matter Grant
Funded by Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, the Sports Matter Grant provides financial support to youth sports organizations to enhance participation and facility quality.
- Max Grant Amount: $25,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Youth sports facility improvements, equipment, and participation costs
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: Sports Matter Grants
Sport-Specific Grants and Funding in Wyoming
Several national and regional sports organizations provide grants for facility construction and program development in sports such as baseball, soccer, tennis, football, and track and field. These programs help Wyoming schools and clubs improve infrastructure and expand participation opportunities for athletes and families alike.
MLB Baseball Youth Development Foundation
The MLB Youth Development Foundation funds projects that expand youth access to baseball and softball. Wyoming communities can apply for funding to build or renovate fields, purchase equipment, and support youth sports programming.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Baseball and softball facilities, equipment, and field renovations
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: MLB Youth Development Foundation
NFL Foundation Grassroots Program
The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program provides funding to construct or renovate football fields in underserved areas. Wyoming schools and nonprofits can apply to improve turf, lighting, and safety features.
- Max Grant Amount: $250,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Football field construction, renovation, and lighting
- Application Deadline: Spring
- Contact/Link: NFL Foundation Grassroots
Safe Places to Play Grants
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Safe Places to Play program supports soccer field development and facility improvements across the U.S. Wyoming communities can use these funds to build or enhance fields, lighting, and mini-pitches.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and community-based organizations
- What It Funds: Soccer fields, mini-pitches, lighting, and surfacing projects
- Application Deadline: Multiple cycles each year
- Contact/Link: Safe Places to Play
USTA Facility Assistance Program
The USTA Facility Assistance Program provides funding and expertise for tennis facility development, resurfacing, and expansion. Wyoming schools and communities can use the program to upgrade courts or expand public access to the sport.
- Max Grant Amount: $55,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Tennis court resurfacing, construction, and lighting
- Application Deadline: None
- Contact/Link: USTA Facility Assistance Program
USA Track & Field (USATF) Grants
The USATF Foundation provides grants for facility upgrades and programs that encourage participation in track and field. Wyoming schools and clubs can use these funds for resurfacing, constructing, or improving track and field facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools, clubs, and community organizations (varies by grant)
- What It Funds: Track resurfacing, facility construction, and field equipment
- Application Deadline: Varies by program
- Contact/Link: USATF Foundation Grants
USA Football Grant Program
The USA Football Grant Program funds safety and facility upgrades for youth and school football programs. Wyoming organizations can apply for field renovations, new equipment, or safety initiatives.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: U.S.-based tax-exempt youth or school football programs
- What It Funds: Field improvements, safety equipment, and participation programs
- Application Deadline: Varies
- Contact/Link: USA Football Grants
All Kids Play – Youth Sports Grants
The All Kids Play program supports nonprofit organizations that promote access to youth sports. Wyoming groups can apply for funding to improve 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: Facility upgrades, equipment, and participation subsidies
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: All Kids Play Grants
Funding for Private Developers & Businesses in Wyoming
Private developers and business owners in Wyoming can take advantage of programs that encourage investment in tourism, recreation, and community infrastructure. These initiatives offer grants, loans, and tax incentives that support projects such as sports complexes, recreation centers, and mixed-use developments that enhance local economies and quality of life.
Wyoming Business Council (WBC) – Business Ready Community (BRC) Grant & Loan Program
The Wyoming Business Council (WBC) administers the Business Ready Community (BRC) program, which funds infrastructure projects that support economic development and community growth. Recreation-based projects that attract visitors, host events, or improve local amenities may qualify.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project and funding round
- Who Can Apply: Municipalities, counties, and joint powers boards (in partnership with developers)
- What It Funds: Public infrastructure, site development, and community facilities including sports or recreation complexes
- Application Deadline: Quarterly cycles
The BRC program is ideal for developers partnering with municipalities on recreation or tourism-based projects that provide long-term community and economic benefits.
Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation – Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Program
The Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, part of the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, provides grants and coordination support for recreation infrastructure projects. This includes trails, outdoor sports facilities, and public-use recreation amenities that enhance Wyoming’s outdoor economy.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project scope
- Who Can Apply: Municipalities, nonprofits, and private developers with public access partnerships
- What It Funds: Outdoor recreation infrastructure, trail systems, and sports-related public spaces
- Application Deadline: Annual (typically spring)
This program focuses on projects that expand public access, promote tourism, and strengthen Wyoming’s identity as a destination for outdoor adventure.
Wyoming Tourism Grant Program – Destination Development
The Wyoming Office of Tourism supports projects that enhance tourism infrastructure and recreational opportunities across the state. Through the Destination Development Grant Program, developers and municipalities can secure funding for projects that improve visitor experiences.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: Municipalities, tourism-related businesses, and developers working in partnership with local governments
- What It Funds: Sports facilities, event venues, trail systems, and recreation amenities tied to tourism
- Application Deadline: Annual (typically early summer)
This program is ideal for developers planning sports or recreation projects that also serve as regional attractions or tourism drivers.
Opportunity Zones
Wyoming has 25 federally designated Opportunity Zones located in communities such as Cheyenne, Casper, Sheridan, and Gillette. Investors who reinvest capital gains into qualifying projects within these zones can defer or reduce federal taxes while revitalizing local economies.
- Eligible Projects: Sports and recreation complexes, mixed-use facilities, and tourism-based developments.
- Program Benefits: Federal capital gains tax deferral and partial exclusion after long-term investment.
Opportunity Zones offer significant incentives for developers building recreation facilities that align with Wyoming’s goals for sustainable community and tourism growth.
Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) – Local Development Support
The Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) works with local governments, chambers, and developers to promote community revitalization and tourism-related growth.
- What It Funds: Feasibility studies, infrastructure improvements, and recreation-related public-private partnerships.
- Who Can Apply: Developers working in coordination with local municipalities or development districts.
- Program Benefits: Access to local funding, state partnerships, and business expansion incentives.Local Development Incentives
Cities and counties across Wyoming offer additional development incentives for recreation and tourism-focused projects:
- Cheyenne: Offers Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and infrastructure grants for developments that improve community amenities or attract visitors.
- Casper: Provides Economic Development Loans and access to Tourism Enhancement Funds for sports, event, and recreation facilities.
- Jackson: Offers Affordable Commercial and Infrastructure Support for recreation and tourism developments through local partnerships.
- Gillette and Sheridan: Provide Local Option Sales Tax Funds for community infrastructure, including public-use recreation projects.
By combining state, federal, and local programs, Wyoming’s developers can create financially sustainable recreation and sports facilities that support both economic diversification and community well-being.
Utilities Rebates and Green Incentives in Wyoming
Sports and recreation facilities in Wyoming can reduce operational costs and improve sustainability by leveraging energy-efficiency and renewable energy programs offered by the state’s major utility providers. These initiatives provide rebates, grants, and technical assistance for lighting, HVAC, and clean energy projects — helping athletic facilities and community centers lower long-term expenses while contributing to Wyoming’s energy-efficiency goals.
Black Hills Energy
Black Hills Energy offers commercial energy-efficiency programs that help businesses, schools, and municipalities reduce utility costs.
- Lighting and Controls Rebates: Incentives for LED conversions and advanced control systems for gymnasiums, arenas, and outdoor sports fields.
- HVAC and Equipment Rebates: Support for high-efficiency furnaces, boilers, and ventilation systems.
- Custom Energy Projects: Rebates for recreation or community facilities that demonstrate measurable energy savings through custom upgrades.
- Free Energy Assessments: On-site consultations to identify energy-saving opportunities in recreation and community facilities.
Black Hills Energy’s programs are particularly valuable for large-scale facilities such as sports complexes and recreation centers that operate year-round.
Rocky Mountain Power
Rocky Mountain Power provides commercial energy-efficiency programs and custom project support for customers across Wyoming.
- Lighting Incentives: Rebates for energy-efficient lighting upgrades, including field, gym, and facility lighting.
- Custom Incentive Program: Funding for large projects that demonstrate energy savings through HVAC, refrigeration, and control system upgrades.
- New Construction Incentives: Support for facilities that incorporate energy efficiency into their initial design, including recreation or aquatic centers.
- Demand Response Programs: Credits for facilities that reduce power consumption during peak hours.
Rocky Mountain Power’s programs help developers and facility managers incorporate efficient technologies from the planning stage through operation.
Powder River Energy Corporation (PRECorp)
Powder River Energy Corporation serves northeastern Wyoming with commercial energy-efficiency incentives and renewable energy programs.
- Lighting Rebates: Incentives for upgrading indoor and outdoor lighting to LED technology.
- HVAC and Equipment Rebates: Rebates for high-efficiency heat pumps, furnaces, and air conditioning systems.
- Renewable Energy Support: Technical guidance for solar and wind integration in community and recreation facilities.
- Custom Incentives: Rebates for large-scale energy-saving projects that achieve measurable efficiency improvements.
PRECorp also offers energy audits and low-interest financing options through cooperative partnerships, making it a strong partner for recreation-focused developments in rural Wyoming.
High West Energy
High West Energy provides commercial rebates and efficiency programs for facilities in southeastern Wyoming.
- Lighting and Controls Rebates: Funding for LED upgrades and occupancy sensor installations.
- Equipment and HVAC Rebates: Incentives for high-efficiency mechanical systems and building controls.
- Renewable Energy Options: Net metering and interconnection support for solar systems powering recreation facilities.
- Energy Audits: Free assessments for identifying and prioritizing energy improvements in public-use buildings.
High West Energy’s programs are well-suited for municipal and community recreation centers in smaller or rural service areas.
Carbon Power & Light Cooperative
Carbon Power & Light Cooperative supports energy conservation and renewable energy development across southern Wyoming.
- Commercial Energy Rebates: Incentives for lighting, HVAC, and refrigeration upgrades.
- Renewable Energy Programs: Support for members adding solar or wind generation to public or nonprofit facilities.
- Energy Audit Services: On-site energy evaluations and technical guidance for facilities planning renovations or expansions.
- Low-Interest Loan Program: Financing for qualifying energy-efficiency projects.
Carbon Power & Light’s programs align with community development goals and are especially beneficial for small recreation facilities and municipal projects.
Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) – State Energy Program
The Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) coordinates state energy programs that complement utility offerings and help public and nonprofit facilities adopt efficient, resilient energy systems.
- What It Funds: Energy audits, performance contracting, and renewable energy integration in public buildings.
- Who Can Apply: Municipalities, schools, and nonprofit organizations.
- Program Benefits: Technical support, cost-share opportunities, and access to state-level clean energy incentives
By combining WEA programs with utility rebates, Wyoming communities can build and operate sports and recreation facilities that are efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective for years to come.
City-Level and Regional Funding Opportunities in Wyoming
Cities and towns across Wyoming actively invest in parks, trails, and recreation facilities through local budgets, bond programs, and partnerships with state and federal grant initiatives. Many also collaborate with nonprofits, utilities, and regional organizations to support projects that promote outdoor access, healthy living, and community engagement.
Cheyenne
Cheyenne’s Parks and Recreation Department manages more than 1,000 acres of parkland, multiple athletic facilities, and community recreation centers funded through the city’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), local bonds, and state and federal grants. The city frequently uses Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) funding to develop new trails and athletic fields. Cheyenne also collaborates with the Wyoming Business Council (WBC) and Black Hills Energy to support large-scale recreation projects that incorporate sustainable design and community accessibility.
Casper
Casper’s Parks and Recreation Department oversees recreation centers, athletic complexes, and park systems supported by local tax revenues, capital improvement funds, and state programs. The city often applies for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Business Ready Community (BRC) funding for infrastructure improvements. Casper’s partnerships with Rocky Mountain Power and Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) have supported lighting upgrades and energy-efficient retrofits in city-owned recreation facilities. Recent projects include playground renovations, indoor sports facility expansions, and trail network enhancements along the North Platte River.
Laramie
Laramie’s Parks and Recreation Department manages city parks, trails, and athletic facilities funded by local appropriations, user fees, and external grants. The city leverages LWCF, RTP, and Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program funding to improve trail connectivity and expand community recreation opportunities. Laramie partners with the University of Wyoming and Albany County Recreation Board to co-fund athletic and wellness projects that serve both residents and students.
Jackson
Jackson’s Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with Teton County, develops and maintains recreation spaces that serve residents and visitors alike. Funding comes from local capital budgets, tourism revenue, and grants from the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole and Wyoming Office of Tourism. The city emphasizes partnerships with nonprofits and developers to expand park access, sports fields, and trail systems. Jackson’s recreation priorities align closely with its tourism strategy, focusing on sustainable design and outdoor experience enhancement.
Gillette
Gillette’s Parks and Recreation Division manages community parks, athletic complexes, and trails supported by city funds, local option sales taxes, and grants. The city frequently uses RTP, LWCF, and WBC Business Ready Community funding to support recreation expansion. Gillette also partners with Powder River Energy Cooperative (PRECorp) on efficiency upgrades and lighting improvements for public facilities. Its long-term recreation plan focuses on creating multipurpose spaces that serve both youth and adult athletics, regional tournaments, and community wellness programs.
Start Planning Your Wyoming Sports Facility Project
From Cheyenne’s growing park network to Jackson’s outdoor recreation investments and Gillette’s regional sports complexes, Wyoming continues to build spaces that reflect its strong sense of community and love for the outdoors. With support from state programs, federal grants, and public-private partnerships, local organizations and developers have access to the resources needed to create lasting, high-impact recreation projects across the state.
Before applying, outline your project’s goals, timeline, and community benefits. Wyoming funders — from the Business Council and Office of Outdoor Recreation to the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources — prioritize projects that expand access to recreation, attract tourism, and promote economic vitality.
Sports Venue Calculator helps you take the next step. Use our tools to estimate construction costs, explore design options, and develop a funding strategy tailored to your project. With careful planning and collaboration, your Wyoming sports facility can become a cornerstone for community wellness, outdoor recreation, and long-term growth.
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