AARP Foundation Grantmaking Program

AARP Foundation does not have a set Request For Application (RFA) schedule nor does it accept unsolicited applications. The Foundation supports projects that can become sustainable solutions to the challenges facing older adults with low income.

Geographic Scope

AARP Foundation is currently concentrating its efforts in 22 U.S. states and territories with high rates of senior poverty:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• District of Columbia
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• West Virginia
• Puerto Rico

Approach

As AARP's charitable affiliate, AARP Foundation creates and advances effective solutions to reduce poverty for and with older adults. Through grantmaking, they collaborate with organizations to advance projects that become sustainable solutions to challenges facing older adults living with low income. Work is designed to reach all older adults facing economic challenges, with particular attention to removing obstacles that may prevent access to resources and opportunities.

Generating Income/Earnings

Grants that increase income or earnings for older adults with low income, including:

• Workforce programs providing upskilling or reskilling opportunities
• Work-based learning opportunities
• Pathways helping older workers gain skills needed for high-quality employment

Gaining Access to Benefits

Grants helping older adults with low income secure benefits, including:

• Benefits enabling older adults to support health and wellbeing
• Reducing financial burden of essential expenses (health care, housing, food)

Securing Refunds/Credits

Grants helping older taxpayers secure refunds and credits they've earned, including:

• Free tax preparation
• Assistance applying for property tax relief
• Helping eligible taxpayers access the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Supporting Disaster Relief

When natural disasters strike, AARP Foundation distributes grants to local organizations helping those affected with:

• Immediate relief (food, water, shelter)
• Long-term support for home repair
• Legal aid access
• Financial assistance

Resources for Grantees

• Quarterly Narrative Report Template
• Demographic Data Collection Guidance
• AARP Foundation Grantee FAQ
• Fluxx – AARP Foundation Grants Portal
• Fluxx account creation and submission guides
• AARP Foundation Grant Recognition and Logo
• 2024 AARP Foundation Grantmaking Grants Database
• HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2023

Application Process

AARP Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications. Potential applicants should:

1. Sign up for the distribution list to be notified of future grantmaking and Request for Proposal (RFP) opportunities
2. Monitor for RFP announcements when the Foundation releases formal solicitations
3. Submit through Fluxx portal when applications are open (follows a structured pre-application and full application process)

Required Materials When Applying

• Pre-Application submission via Fluxx
• Full Application submission via Fluxx
• Quarterly Narrative Reports (for funded grantees)
• Demographic Data Collection

Important Notes

• No set RFA schedule exists
• Unsolicited applications are not accepted
• All applications must be submitted through the Fluxx grants portal (new system)
• Applicants must create an account in Fluxx to submit pre-applications and full applications
• Email distribution list signup is the primary way to stay informed about opportunities