AARP is urging eligible nonprofit organizations and governments across Tennessee to apply for its 2026 Community Challenge grant program that funds projects aligned with AARP’s mission of serving the needs of people aged 50 and older.
This year’s AARP Community Challenge is awarding over $8 million in grants as part of its nationwide Livable Communities initiative to fund “quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more.”
Now through March 4, AARP’s Community Challenge is accepting applications for three types of grants: Flagship grants, Capacity-building microgrants, and Demonstration grants.
Over the past decade, the AARP Community Challenge has invested $24.3 million in grants supporting 2,100 community projects. If you have a project in mind that could create meaningful change in your community, submit an application by March 4. https://t.co/A61vLJLIZy
— AARP (@AARP) January 13, 2026
Flagship grants fund projects that enhance public spaces, transportation, housing, digital access, and disaster resilience, with awards of up to $15,000.
Capacity-building microgrants offer $2,500 along with expert guidance and training to support walkability, home safety improvements, and disaster preparedness.
Demonstration grants provide up to $25,000 for projects that can be replicated elsewhere, with this year’s focus on pedestrian safety, expanded high-speed internet access, and innovative housing design.
Last year, six organizations in the Volunteer State were awarded AARP Community Challenge grants to fund the following initiatives: supporting ADA-accessible park improvements in Crossville; an accessible portable mini-golf initiative in Lawrenceburg; an ADU design competition to promote aging in place in Jackson; community walk audits in South Memphis and Stanton to improve walkability for older adults; and disaster preparedness and home-modification projects serving residents aged 50 and older in Memphis.
AARP said it has invested $24.3 million toward 2,100 livability projects – including $353,000 to 41 projects in Tennessee – since 2017. This year marks the organization’s tenth Community Challenge.
While AARP notes that its Community Challenge is open to eligible 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations and government entities, other types of organizations seeking funding are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Applications for AARP’s 2026 Community Challenge are due by Wednesday, March 4. Grantees will be announced on June 24.
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Follow Kaitlin on X / Twitter.
