Grant FAQs

Applying for Multiple Grant Sources

Funding the Same Project
Grantees are not permitted to utilize multiple funding sources for the same outdoor recreation project at the same time. If a city or county applies for an ORGP grant, that entity will not be permitted to utilize another state or federal grant for the same project at the same time. However, it is permissible for a city or county to apply for ORGP funding for one project, and also apply for other state or federal funding for a separate project within the same location at the same time.
- Example of ineligible funding: City A applies for an ORGP grant to fund a trail project at Main Street Park AND City A applies for an ARDOT grant to fund the same trail project at Main Street Park. City A is ineligible to be awarded the ORGP grant if it accepts the ARDOT grant.
- Example of eligible funding: City A applies for an ORGP grant to fund a playground project at Main Street Park AND City A applies for an ARDOT grant to fund a trail project at Main Street Park. City A is eligible to be awarded the ORGP grant if it accepts the ARDOT grant.

Matching Funds Rule
A grantee cannot use another state or federal grant—like TAP or RTP from ARDOT—as the required matching funds for the ORGP grant.

If You Receive Both Grants
If a grantee is awarded both an ORGP grant and an ARDOT grant during the same cycle (or while the grantee has an open ARDOT grant) for separate projects within the same park or project area, representatives from both agencies will work together to host a joint project management workshop to help manage both grants.

Who may apply for these grants?

Only municipalities and counties may apply for the FUN Park, Matching, or Great Strides/Trails for Life Grant.

Do we need to hire someone to prepare the application for us?

No, but if you need help with the process, it may be available through your local economic development or planning and development district office or you may hire a private consultant to assist you.

When should we get started with the grant application?

Get started as soon as possible! Contact your Project Officer to discuss your proposed project.

Can we submit more than one application per year?

Applicants may submit only one application per cycle. However, counties may submit more than one FUN Park per cycle, provided each application is for a separate unincorporated community.

How much money can we apply for?

The maximum grant award for the FUN Park Grant is $100,000.

For Matching Grants, there is no maximum award limit.

The maximum grant award amount for the Great Strides/Trails for Life Grant is $250,000. There are no minimum limit for any of our grants.

Is an engineer or architect required for a grant project?

An engineer, architect or other approved licensed design professional is required for all FUN Park and Great Strides projects and strongly encouraged for Matching Grant projects. Contact your project officer for details regarding the use of approved licensed design professionals.

What are important dates that applicants should be aware of?

Please look at application guides for detailed information on important dates.

How long will we have to complete a grant project?

Grant projects should be completed within one year after the award notice.

How often are the grants awarded?

We award FUN Park, Matching, and Great Strides Grants annually.

What type of facilities can be built with grant funds?

Most outdoor recreation facilities will be considered for funding. Please consult your application guide first and then a Project Officer if more information is needed.

Can we apply for a grant again if we received a grant in the past?

Applicants are eligible to apply for a FUN Park Grant five years after the end of their prior grant award. Applicants can apply for Matching Grants every year. Receiving a Matching Grant does not impact an applicant’s five-year FUN Park interim. Applicants can apply for a Great Strides/Trails for Life Grant every year.