Recreation Challenge Grant

Parks and Recreation Director

Sheryl Ely
[email protected]
(865) 215-4311

Lakeshore Park
5930 Lyons View Pike
Knoxville, TN 37919

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2024 Challenge Grant Application

Must submit application no later than Friday, June 28, 2024 at 4:30 p.m.

The City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department offers an annual Challenge Grant Program, which provides grants to non-profit projects associated with public parks or recreation facilities within the City limits.

The grants are available to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) status community groups, homeowner associations, schools, Scout troops and other organizations.

Recipients of a challenge grant will be reimbursed 50 percent of the cost of a single project, up to $3,000.

In past years, grants have been used for playground equipment, water fountains, benches and landscaping. The Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department has been awarding challenge grants to non-profit groups for more than 25 years.

Challenge Grants may also be used to promote activities in City Parks and on Greenways.  Grants can provide match funds for various fitness classes such as Yoga, Tai Chi, or other activities.  Passive programming for activities such as painting and birdwatching will also be considered.  Approved activities must be on City Park properties, and all other rules associated with the Challenge Grant Program will apply.

In order to receive a grant, the projects are preferred to be on City-owned or -leased property, but must be related to a facility that is available to all residents on a yearly basis.

The grant funding may not be used to purchase a new facility, regular maintenance, or for the purchase of individual or team equipment.



Submissions may be subject to public inspection pursuant to the
Tennessee Open Records Act, TENN. CODE ANN. § 10-7-503, et seq.