USRowing Expands United We Row Grants to $100,000 for 2026

$20,000 increase brings total United We Row funding to $100,000 for 2026, reflecting strong demand and continued investment in access and inclusion.
New funding dedicated to high-performance pathways, helping reduce barriers for athletes pursuing U19, U23, and Senior National Team opportunities.

In a continued commitment to growing inclusivity and access within the sport, USRowing has announced an expansion of its United We Row grant program for 2026—raising the total funding pool to $100,000, a significant increase from the past two years.

The move builds on the momentum of recent grant cycles and reflects the organization’s long-term investment in creating access and community impact across rowing.

“Due to the high demand for grants last year, where we saw over 130 applications, we’re excited to respond by adding an additional $20,000 in funding, said Jennie Trayes, USRowing’s Chief Community Officer. “Our grantee organizations continue to lead the way in inclusion, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to add fuel to the fire.”

Building on a Strong Foundation

The United We Row initiative was created to break down barriers, ensure that rowing is accessible to athletes of all backgrounds, and retain our current community. Through grants, scholarships, and mentorship, the program supports organizations working to expand participation and foster inclusion.

In 2025, USRowing awarded $80,000 in grants to 16 organizations, impacting more than 400 rowers nationwide and supporting programs ranging from adaptive rowing to youth outreach and LGBTQ+ inclusion.

By increasing the 2026 funding pool to $100,000, USRowing is taking a clear next step in scaling that impact.

A Strategic Investment in Growth

The expanded funding aligns with USRowing’s broader pledge to invest $1 million between 2024 and 2028 in initiatives that grow the sport and make it more inclusive.

New for 2026, $20,000 of the expanded funding is specifically designated to support programs that are building pathways to high performance. These investments will help reduce barriers for athletes pursuing U19, U23, and Senior National Team opportunities - ensuring that talent, not access, determines who can reach the highest levels of the sport.

United We Row grants are designed to support a wide range of initiatives, including:

Learn-to-row and youth development programs
Adaptive and para-rowing opportunities
Transportation and access solutions
Scholarships and coach development
Outreach to historically underrepresented communities

These grants not only provide financial support but also connect recipients with a network of peers and mentorship opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

2026 Application Timeline

The 2026 grant cycle follows a structured, two-stage application process designed to identify high-impact programs while minimizing administrative burden. Key dates include:

March 26, 2026 – Virtual Town Hall
March 27 – April 12, 2026 – Stage 1 Applications
April 17 – May 3, 2026 – Stage 2 Applications
Mid-May 2026 – Review Period
End of May 2026 – Funds Distributed
Early June 2026 – Grantee Announcement

This process ensures that selected organizations demonstrate both strong alignment with United We Row’s mission and a clear plan for measurable impact.

Driving Meaningful Impact

United We Row grants have already proven to be a catalyst for change. Past recipients have launched new programs, expanded access for underserved athletes, and leveraged grant funding to raise additional support within their communities.

With the increase to $100,000 in 2026, USRowing is positioning the program to reach even more athletes and organizations—amplifying its mission of creating “a seat in the boat for everyone.”