Steps you’ll take to fill out and submit a 2024 application:

1. Download the Welger Foundation Grant Application Form
2. Complete the fillable PDF
3. Submit the completed application, along with any supporting documentation to grants@welgerfoundation.org

Applicants are required to provide multiple files/documentation with their application in order for the grant request to be considered. Applicants will need to provide: 

• Medical verification of disability: Applicants will be required to provide a medical document that verifies their disability
• Two high-quality photos of the applicant, preferably playing their sport
• Financial documentation to show proof of annual income
  • The Welger Foundation awards grants based on financial need. We require financial documentation to verify the financial need. Documents must be dated within the last year, and can include a W2, government assistance letter, bank account statements, etc. Please redact all sensitive personal information before you upload.
• A Letter of Recommendation from a mentor, coach, teammate, friend, etc.

Our goal is to provide eligible applicants with grant support. As a nonprofit organization, we have a budget we must adhere to, and so we prioritize applications based on financial need. Additionally, applications that are incomplete, missing documentation, or lacking effort or detail may not be considered for a grant.   We encourage applicants to fill out their application as thoughtfully and thoroughly as possible. Ensure that you know exactly what you are applying for and research any equipment or expenses before choosing your grant category.

An Equipment Expense Grant aims to cover any expenses associated with an athlete’s training, competitions, or equipment purchases and maintenance – max request $1,500. If awarded this grant, The Welger Foundation will send you monetary funding that can be used for any of the following sports equipment related expenses:

• Minor/Small equipment purchases (expenses related to maintain, refurbish, or upgrade your adaptive equipment like handcycles, sport wheelchairs, bicycles, etc. or to purchase smaller equipment items that help you train or compete in sport.

A Training/Travel/Competition Expense Grant aims to cover any expenses associated with an athlete’s training and/or competitions – max request $1,500. If awarded this grant, The Welger Foundation will send you monetary funding that can be used for any of the following sports-related expenses:

• Training Expenses (expenses related to entry fees, adaptive sports clinics, training camp, etc.) 
• Travel/Competition Expenses (expenses related to sport/athletic competitions, training camps, or clinics. These expenses may include entry fees and/or travel-related expenses to competitions for the athlete. If the athlete is under 18 or requires a guide, funds can be used towards expenses for one parent/guardian or guide. Travel related expenses can include transportation (fuel, rental car, flight, ride share, etc.), accommodations (hotel fees), and food. 

The purpose of the grant is to remove financial barriers that prohibit the athlete from playing their sport. Grants cannot be utilized for the below:

• Travel expenses for coaches or additional family members
• Fuel expenses for personal vehicle outside of competition travel
• Lodging expenses for any additional/extended travel outside of competition dates
•  Medical or similar services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage, etc.
• Non-sport equipment
• Uniforms or articles of clothing
• Technology with a fitness component (Smart watches, fitness trackers, etc.)

Yes. You will be required to provide your receipts to show how funds were spent.