License Plate Grant Information

Existing, Traditional Junior Golf Programs

Traditional junior golf programs include local and regional programs that provide playing opportunities, practice sessions and guidance on the game of golf to local juniors at a very low cost.  These programs have often operated for many years and provide guidance on the culture of the game, its rules, etiquette and traditions.  The juniors participating typically learn how to better handle themselves around adults and golf facilities.

The MGLP Committee values the role of traditional junior golf programs in the development of junior golfers and recognizes that many of these programs could be enhanced or expanded with grants from the MGLP Committee.  Applications from existing programs to assist with expansion and administrative costs are encouraged.

Municipal Programs

Junior programs coordinated by departments of a municipal government are also eligible for grants.

Eligible departments include those involved in:

• Youth athletics such as Divisions of Parks & Recreation
• Community Development
• Child Services

The MGLP grant program should not be used as a substitute for local tax revenue, but may be used to develop new junior golf programs or to expand existing programs.   Municipal programs often benefit from having free access to golf facilities or park space acceptable for use.  They also have extensive experience with youth sports and coaching

Newly Created Junior Golf Programs

Newly created junior golf programs are eligible to receive grant funding.  However, newly created programs without a proven track record in junior golf will generally receive lesser grant awards in the early years of their program.  Additionally, new programs should study the level of junior golf activity in their area to avoid a duplication of efforts.

Local Support – New programs should not look to the MGLP Committee as their sole means of support and should develop other revenue sources including user fees, local support from community-based organizations, local businesses, golf clubs, and men’s and women’s golf associations found at local golf clubs. If your program is worthy, the local community and local golfers will lend their support.

School Systems and School Programs

If you are applying on behalf of a school district and intend to work with a PGA Professional or First Tee National School Program there is a separate grant application for your use.  If you are not intending to work with The First Tee National School Program, you should complete the standard grant application.

Connection with Local Junior Golf Programs

• A critical component of a successful school based program includes the school’s cooperation and coordination with junior golf programs conducted at local golf courses and practice facilities.

• Applicants must identify local junior golf programs (including The First Tee Programs), and golf facilities that will serve as the next step in the development of their students.
• Essentially, interested children need the access and opportunity to experience a traditional golf setting that includes PGA Professionals and on course playing opportunities.

Curriculum and Frequency of Participation

• Applying schools should specify their curriculum and frequency of golf classes.
• The success of school golf programs is greatly increased though consistent, regular exposure to the game.
• The MGLP Committee is reluctant to fund grants for programs that will be utilized on an occasional or infrequent basis

Other Eligible Programs

Programs tied to serving youth, military and diverse populations with an emphasis on inclusion and the general population are eligible for grants.

Local and regional programs that provide playing opportunities, practice sessions and guidance on the game of golf in the areas listed above are eligible.  The MGLP Committee values the role of these programs in the development of golfers and recognizes that many of these programs could be enhanced or expanded with grants from the MGLP Committee.  Applications from existing programs and new programs in these areas are encouraged.

• Requests for endowments or multi-year grants will not be accepted.
• Grant recipients may re-apply each year.  However, the MGLP Committee will not be the sole provider of funds, and will reduce contributions over time.
• Each program is expected to develop local means of support in the future by reaching out to the community for charitable donations and help.
  • Some good programs to reach out to in your local community include men’s and women’s golf organizations and civic organizations like the Rotary and Kiwanis Club.

The MGLP Committee prefers programs that include a balance of four primary areas of emphasis:

1. Instruction
2. Practice
3. Playing
4. Life Skills

Golf After Your Program – To be most effective, your program should consider where your juniors will have the opportunity to play golf after they leave your program.  You should coordinate with other local junior programs and local golf courses to establish necessary relationships.

Playing Golf – Golf is a game to be played.  Instruction and practice are good – but children have to be able to play the game in some form for your program to be most effective.  Use caution with program participants by not having them play too many holes in one setting or golf holes that are too long or difficult for their ability.  Make sure playing golf and practice sessions are fun.  Competition is healthy.

Community Involvement – Adequate supervision not only promotes safety, it provides for a better experience.  Your local golf professional will often provide you with tremendous advice and assistance.  Visit area clubs and meet with the golf professionals; many of which are willing to provide assistance to juniors.  Additionally, there are hundreds of thousands of golfers in the State of Minnesota that are willing to invest in the future of our game.

The Grant Application is due three months prior to the start date of the program and grant recipients will be determined in a month-long process. Submissions will be accepted at two different deadlines throughout the year: April 1 for April committee approval, October 1 for November committee approval.

• You may apply for a grant well in advance of the deadline. Do not wait for the last minute to apply! You may apply up to 6 months prior to your program start date.
• Grants WILL NOT be awarded to programs that begin prior to the determination date.