Small Dollar, Big Impact Grants

Small Dollar, Big Impact Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: AARP Foundation
Amount: Up to US $1,000
Last Updated: September 12, 2025

Summary

The Small Dollar, Big Impact Grants program in Wisconsin invites applications for innovative community projects aimed at enhancing local livability. Grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded to eligible nonprofits, government, and tribal entities that utilize AARP's Livable Communities Resource library. Projects must be completed within 60 days of selection and should focus on practical, low-cost solutions that foster community engagement and improve quality of life for residents.

Overview

Small Dollar, Big Impact Grants Applications are accepted from across Wisconsin for “Small Dollar, Big Impact” grants, which will be awarded to new projects that are designed to improve a community and make it a better place for everyone to live, work, and play as they age. Projects must use the AARP Livable Communities Resource library in their development. Within the resource library you will find publications and tool kits that provide ideas on placemaking, public space improvements, or simple ways to address walkability, to name a few. AARP Wisconsin may award a grant of up to $1,000 to at least one eligible applicant. The grant amount could be a portion of or the total cost for the project. All projects must be completed within 60 days from winner announcement. If your project includes public engagement, please ensure that the activities follow all local/state guidelines. Small Dollar, Big Impact grants are exactly what the name describes – simple, short-term, low-cost solutions that could have remarkable impacts on the shaping of neighborhoods and cities. There are so many great ideas and proposals for making life better in communities across Wisconsin. We know how impactful $1,000 can be. This is our way of extending some seed money to get these projects off the ground.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. The program is open to the following types of entities:501(C)(3), 501(C)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits Government entities Tribal entities Must be located within the State of Wisconsin

Ineligibility

For-profit entities are not eligible to apply.The following projects are not eligible for funding:Partisan, political or election-related activities Planning activities and assessments and surveys of communities Publication of books or reports Acquisition of land and/or buildings Sponsorships of other organizations’ events or activities Research and development for a nonprofit endeavor Research and development for a for-profit endeavor The promotion of a for-profit entity and/or its products and services