RURAL LIFE INITIAVE PROGRAM
What is the Rural Life Initiative?
The Rural Life Initiative supports locally driven projects that strengthen rural communities, enhance quality of life, and build long-term resilience. Through community events, educational programming, and wellness resources, the Initiative helps communities address local needs, reduce disparities, and sustain a strong rural identity.
Supported projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Physical, Mental & Community Health: Health education and wellness resources that improve access to information, prevention, and support in rural areas.
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Community Connection, Culture & Belonging: Inclusive events and cultural initiatives that celebrate local heritage, foster connection, and bring communities together.
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Sustainable & Modern Agriculture Outreach: Education and outreach focused on sustainable agriculture, food security, and strengthening connections between producers and the public.
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Youth Leadership & Workforce Readiness: Leadership development, civic engagement, and life-skills programs that prepare young people to contribute to their communities.
As many civic and social organizations face declining engagement, the Grange is experiencing renewed relevance in communities nationwide. Grange members are leading innovative, grassroots efforts that strengthen connections, respond to emerging challenges, and help rural communities thrive.
Beth and Nona are happy to answer any questions you may have - about planning and carrying out events, fundraising, or the grant application itself. They have set up "office hours" on Zoom as follows:
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January 22nd
11am-12pm ET / 8am-9am PT |
February 5th
11am-12pm ET / 8am-9am PT |
February 19th |
If those times don't work for you, they can also be reached by email:
If you have questions for our Rural Life Initiative team, please reach out here rurallifeinitiative@grange.org.
The National Grange is pleased to announce a new round of
Rural Life Initiative grants.
The Rural Life Initiative: Bridging the Gaps Grant offers funding to support local Granges’ event-based projects that bring the community together and help engage new Grange members. Your project can be something new or built on an existing event, as long as it’s clear how the funding will support the event and member recruitment, and the event must take place within the grant guidelines.
Grants are open to Community or Pomona Granges. The total funding available is limited to 40 $1,000 grants. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, but must be received by February 28, 2026.
Key Requirements for Your Project:
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Final report must be submitted by September 30, 2026.
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Must be event-based and involve your local community.
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You have the flexibility to choose topics based on local needs, but the projects cannot involve building improvements or equipment purchases unless they are essential to carrying out the project.
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Must include at least one partner organization beyond your Grange.
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Events must address a disparity seen within your community.
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You must submit a current membership list with the application
All applications must be submitted through the online portal
This will likely not be the only round of Rural Life Initiative Grants given this year.
“The Rural Life Initiative is more than a grant program. It is an investment in people, leadership, and the future of rural America. These projects show what happens when local Granges are equipped and empowered to lead. The impact goes far beyond a single event; it strengthens relationships, builds resilience, and secures the Grange’s role in our communities for generations to come,” said Hamp.
