How to Apply for a Soccer Grant

The cost of higher education continues to rise, and it's getting increasingly difficult to get funding for sports programs. However, you can apply for grants through private and government institutions. A grant is a varying sum of money given to an applicant for a variety of reasons, like to pursue soccer or help build a soccer program. A grant does not have to be paid back. The U.S. Soccer Federation paid $2.62 million in soccer grants in 2010.

Instructions

    • 1

      Train and play your best through high school. Play soccer all four years if possible. Join recreational teams or leagues outside your school as well. This will show the applicant reviewer that you are dedicated to the sport. If asking for grant money for a program, have a well-thought-out and detailed business plan for the the grant money before applying.

    • 2

      Apply for a grant with the U.S. Soccer Federation. Grant applications open on October 1 and close on October 29. U.S. Soccer Federation grants are not for individuals but for groups or programs to help build soccer fields, install synthetic turfs or attract coaches and players in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Applicants must be from a not-for-profit organization, school, municipality, college or university, or public school. If building a field, applicant must have at least 10 years' ownership, lease or land agreement of the proposed land. Grant money can be used for equipment, travel expenses for games or practices, training fees, landscaping costs and team registration costs.

    • 3

      Find soccer grants through your school and online. Apply to every one you find, even if it isn't offering much money. Small grants add up quickly and there tends to be less competition for them than the bigger grants. Some applications will require essays; others may need just your information. Complete all applications whether they are lengthy or not.

    • 4

      Sign up to websites that send you information on soccer grants through your email, such as Fastweb.com or scholarships.com. Add "Soccer" to your grant and scholarship filter. Wait for updates on your applications and keep applying for other grants.