AARP Mississippi Opens 2026 Community Challenge Grant Applications
AARP Mississippi is now accepting applications from qualifying nonprofit organizations and government agencies for the 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant program. Applications must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. Central Time on March 4, 2026. The Community Challenge provides funding for short-term, high-impact projects that enhance livability by improving public spaces, transportation options, housing, digital access, and other community assets.
Entering its tenth year, the AARP Community Challenge will significantly expand its reach by more than doubling its funding to over $8 million nationwide. This investment is part of AARP’s broader Livable Communities initiative, which helps cities, towns, neighborhoods, and rural communities create inclusive environments that support residents of all ages, with a particular focus on those aged 50 and older.
“AARP Mississippi partners closely with community members, advocates, and decision-makers through the Community Challenge program to enhance quality of life across the state,” said Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq., State Director of AARP Mississippi. “This year’s expanded funding allows us to provide even greater support to Mississippi communities.”
For 2026, applicants may apply under one of three grant categories, with all proposals required to align with AARP’s mission and eligibility requirements centered on serving people age 50 and older.
Flagship grants fund initiatives that improve public places, transportation systems, housing options, digital connectivity, and disaster resilience. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars up to $15,000.
Capacity-building microgrants provide $2,500 awards along with technical assistance, including expert guidance, webinars, and peer learning opportunities. These grants support projects focused on walkability and bikeability, accessible home modifications, and disaster readiness.
Demonstration grants support innovative projects designed to be replicated in other communities. This year’s priorities include pedestrian safety improvements (with funding from Toyota Motor North America), broadband expansion and digital adoption (supported by Microsoft), and housing choice design competitions. These awards typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 and may reach up to $25,000.
“Over the past decade, AARP has made strategic investments that help communities nationwide become places where people of all abilities can thrive,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer.
“From safer crosswalks to home upgrades and stronger community engagement, the Community Challenge has sparked meaningful change and inspired further progress.”
Since 2017, AARP has awarded $24.3 million to more than 2,100 livability projects across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, including 28 projects in Mississippi. The program supports rural, suburban, and urban communities alike, with special attention to the needs of older adults.
AARP Mississippi continues to collaborate with communities statewide by convening local partners and providing resources and expertise to help ensure Mississippi’s towns, cities, and counties are vibrant places to live for residents of every age.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations, as well as government entities. Other organizations may be considered on an individual basis. Grant awards range from small amounts for short-term initiatives to larger sums for more extensive projects.
The application deadline is March 4, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. CT, and all funded projects must be completed by December 15, 2026. Click here to apply and explore previously funded projects.
Entering its tenth year, the AARP Community Challenge will significantly expand its reach by more than doubling its funding to over $8 million nationwide. This investment is part of AARP’s broader Livable Communities initiative, which helps cities, towns, neighborhoods, and rural communities create inclusive environments that support residents of all ages, with a particular focus on those aged 50 and older.
“AARP Mississippi partners closely with community members, advocates, and decision-makers through the Community Challenge program to enhance quality of life across the state,” said Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq., State Director of AARP Mississippi. “This year’s expanded funding allows us to provide even greater support to Mississippi communities.”
For 2026, applicants may apply under one of three grant categories, with all proposals required to align with AARP’s mission and eligibility requirements centered on serving people age 50 and older.
Flagship grants fund initiatives that improve public places, transportation systems, housing options, digital connectivity, and disaster resilience. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars up to $15,000.
Capacity-building microgrants provide $2,500 awards along with technical assistance, including expert guidance, webinars, and peer learning opportunities. These grants support projects focused on walkability and bikeability, accessible home modifications, and disaster readiness.
Demonstration grants support innovative projects designed to be replicated in other communities. This year’s priorities include pedestrian safety improvements (with funding from Toyota Motor North America), broadband expansion and digital adoption (supported by Microsoft), and housing choice design competitions. These awards typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 and may reach up to $25,000.
“Over the past decade, AARP has made strategic investments that help communities nationwide become places where people of all abilities can thrive,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer.
“From safer crosswalks to home upgrades and stronger community engagement, the Community Challenge has sparked meaningful change and inspired further progress.”
Since 2017, AARP has awarded $24.3 million to more than 2,100 livability projects across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, including 28 projects in Mississippi. The program supports rural, suburban, and urban communities alike, with special attention to the needs of older adults.
AARP Mississippi continues to collaborate with communities statewide by convening local partners and providing resources and expertise to help ensure Mississippi’s towns, cities, and counties are vibrant places to live for residents of every age.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations, as well as government entities. Other organizations may be considered on an individual basis. Grant awards range from small amounts for short-term initiatives to larger sums for more extensive projects.
The application deadline is March 4, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. CT, and all funded projects must be completed by December 15, 2026. Click here to apply and explore previously funded projects.
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