Honoring the legacy of the Heisman Trophy, a national symbol of athletic excellence and integrity, the Fund supports nonprofit organizations that use sports as a catalyst to foster academic success, leadership, and equity for youth across New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and Newark, New Jersey.
Rooted in the Heisman values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and excellence, the Fund ensures that all young people, regardless of background or athletic ability, have access to quality sports-based youth development programs that integrate physical activity with academic support and life skills.
Since its inception, the Fund has grown from a local pilot in New York City to a nationally recognized model of youth investment. It now operates in seven cities, including Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles.
The Fund supports charitable organizations that:
These sports must be structured, coach-led, and involve formal practice and competition. Examples include basketball, track and field, lacrosse, martial arts, tennis, football, and more. Programs must also provide at least four hours of academic services per week and prioritize underserved and high-need communities.
In 2023, the Fund awarded over $1.4 million in grants to programs that are helping nearly 5,000 student-athletes thrive. These investments have supported:
Grantees include the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Queens, Northern Westchester, and Newark; East Harlem Tutorial Program; Bronx Lacrosse; and Figure Skating in Harlem.
The Fund issues an annual call for letters of interest (LOIs). Grants typically range from $20,000 to $40,000 for one year. We strongly encourage small and emerging nonprofits to apply. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or work with a fiscal sponsor.
The Fund prioritizes programs that:
The Fund does not:
Applications begin with an LOI submission via The New York Community Trust’s Grantseeker Portal. For full application instructions and deadlines, visit our grants page.
While best known for awarding the prestigious Heisman Memorial Trophy to the nation’s top college football player, the Heisman Trophy Trust is equally committed to uplifting underserved youth through charitable work. It champions amateur athletics, education, and opportunity, extending the spirit of the Heisman beyond the football field. Through the Youth Development Fund, the Heisman Trophy Trust invests in a future where every child can thrive—on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
