$16M VA Grants Aim to Expand Sports Access for Veterans

Funding will support adaptive sports programs nationwide to help disabled veterans improve mobility, independence, and well-being.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:00pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a wheelchair basketball game, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the dynamic energy and movement of the sport.Adaptive sports programs funded by VA grants aim to help disabled veterans regain mobility, independence, and a sense of community through tailored recreational activities.Chester Today

The Department of Veterans Affairs is making $16 million in grants available through its Adaptive Sports Grant Program to support organizations that provide recreational activities and rehabilitation programs designed to help veterans with disabilities improve their mobility, independence, and overall well-being. The funding can be used for a range of adaptive sports, from archery and cycling to wheelchair softball and fishing.

Why it matters

Adaptive sports programs have been shown to be life-changing for disabled veterans, improving their strength, facilitating healing, and building resilience through competition, camaraderie, and achievement. These grants will help expand access to these vital programs across the country, enabling more veterans to stay active, engaged, and connected with their communities.

The details

The VA's Adaptive Sports Grant Program has awarded over $160 million since its creation, helping organizations nationwide provide competitive and non-competitive adaptive sports activities. Eligible applicants include national, regional, and community-based organizations that serve veterans and service members with disabilities. Applications are due by May 13, 2026, and details on eligibility and the application process are available through the federal grants portal.

  • The VA is making $16 million in grants available through the Adaptive Sports Grant Program.
  • Applications for the grants are due by May 13, 2026.

The players

Department of Veterans Affairs

The federal agency responsible for providing healthcare and other benefits to U.S. military veterans.

Doug Collins

The Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, who stated that adaptive sports can be life-changing for disabled veterans.

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What they’re saying

“Adaptive sports can be life-changing for disabled Veterans, improving strength and facilitating healing while building resilience through competition, camaraderie and achievement. These grants will create vital access to local adaptive sports programs to help Veterans stay active, engaged and connected with their communities and fellow Veterans.”

— Doug Collins, VA Secretary

What’s next

Organizations interested in applying for the grants must submit their applications by May 13, 2026 through the federal grants portal.

The takeaway

These VA grants will significantly expand access to adaptive sports programs for disabled veterans across the country, providing them with opportunities to improve their physical and mental well-being, build community, and achieve personal goals through competitive and recreational activities.