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Grants Faqs

Is my organization or event eligible for grant funding?

It is important to review eligibility requirements and guidelines before starting your application. View details here.

How do I apply for a grant?

Grant opportunities are available by invitation only. We invite you to join our Sports Matter Community to receive email updates on potential grant opportunities, events and other exciting Sports Matter moments. To learn about grant eligibility, click here. To join, please share your contact information and details here.

What should I have before I begin my grant application?

Basic personal and team/league contact information.
EIN, W-9, 501(c)(3) determination letter, and any documentation for the nonprofit or school affiliated with the application.
Specifics concerning the funding request.
Budget for equipment requests — have a list of items needed.
A vendor quote for requested services (such as transportation, lodging, facility rentals).
Registration form with the applicable fees (pay to play, sports camps, tournament fees).

Can an organization request a product donation or gift card(s) instead of a grant?

No. Only financial grants are available through our program. Requests for in-kind donations (products and gift cards) should be made at your local DICK’S Sporting Goods store or through this link.

If my organization has already received a grant, can I still apply for funding?

Not in the same year — each organization/school can only be awarded one grant per calendar year.

Where do I find the Sports Matter logo and recognition guidelines if my organization has received a grant?

Any announcement, logo usage or press release language requires approval from DICK’S Foundation. Please contact your Grant Manager to obtain a logo file and/or discuss plans for grant recognition and publicity.

Do you grant directly to individuals?

No, we do not make grants directly to individuals.

What areas or types of programs are not eligible for a grant?

Private schools
Religious organizations
For-profit organizations
Political causes, candidates, organizations or campaigns
E-sports

Can I request funding if my organization has a pending 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, or just recently obtained 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status but I’m receiving a system error?

No. Only organizations that are listed in the Internal Revenue Service's current 50-State Master File are eligible to receive funding. If you believe that a system error is preventing you from submitting an application, please contact the IRS at 1-877-829-5500 and request to be added to Publication 78, also known as the 50-State Master File.

Can I request funding if my organization is a private foundation or privately operating foundation?

No. Only organizations recognized as public charities (other than Type III supporting organizations) are eligible for funding.

How do I check the status of my grant application if I applied for a grant and haven’t heard back?

You’ll receive an email notification as soon as funding decisions have been made. Please log into your grant application profile page on Versaic to see an overview of the applications submitted to date.

Who do I contact if I was awarded a grant but still have not received the check?

Grant checks will be mailed directly to the recipient organization at the address provided in the application. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery. If the grant was approved and the agreement was signed more than 6 weeks ago, and the check has not yet been received, please contact info@sportsmatter.org for assistance with submitting a void/reissue request.