The United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced a pledge of $5 million over the next five years, further strengthening the association’s commitment to grassroots tennis programs.
The new program and funding are in addition to $10 million in grant monies earmarked to expand the USTA’s facility grant program, which supports local tennis infrastructure and was announced earlier this year.
“With demand for tennis at historic highs, these grants will give local coaches and programs the resources they need to expand their impact and grow participation. It’s a direct investment in the foundation of our 35×35 vision,” said Brian Vahaly, chairman of the Board and president of the USTA.
The micro-grants, which range from $2,500 to $10,000, can cover a wide range of growth-related expenses, including new equipment, events and activations designed to promote the sport.
Recipients of the grant money can use the funds to establish Community Tennis Associations (CTAs) in areas that are currently not served by a CTA. The USTA designed the grant program to be accessible to as many organizations as possible, thereby impacting the broadest segment of the tennis community.
Earlier this year, the USTA announced that tennis participation in the United States surged to a new high of 25.7 million players following five consecutive years of growth.
The grants are available to all USTA member organizations and will be administered by the respective USTA section and/or district based on local priorities.
Image courtesy USTA
