Our grants are designed to help USPA lifters with financial need:
PLATFORM READY GRANT
The Platform Ready Grant is a one-time financial award for powerlifters who need help paying for USPA meet expenses.
This grant may include funding for the following:
UPLIFT GRANT
The Uplift Grant is solely reserved for individuals who would be unable to train and compete in the USPA without our support. This grant is awarded to powerlifters seeking continued mentorship and access to training and competition in the USPA.
This grant may include funding for the following:
REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY
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Uplift Grant Recipient, Alexandria, at USPA Midwest Regionals in 2025.
REQUIREMENTS TO MAINTAIN GRANTSUplift Grant:
Platform Ready Grant
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Grant funding?
Grant funding is open to all USPA powerlifters/members who are experiencing financial hardship, regardless of experience level.
I can afford my gym membership and coaching, but I cannot afford meet registration or new knee sleeves, what grant would be best for me?
Platform Ready Grant. This grant is dedicated for meet-related expenses.
How are applicants selected?
Our Board decision process involves a thorough review and discussion of your application, documents, and interview. Each Board member provides a vote. Funding amounts are decided on a case-by-case basis. You may be granted part or all of funding requested.
Who can write a recommendation letter? What should it include?
It is essential that your recommendation letter be written by a USPA official, coach, gym owner, or fitness mentor who can attest to your commitment to powerlifting and understands your financial situation. This letter should highlight your character and values while providing insight into your dedication to the sport. Letters written by yourself, or family members does not meet our criteria.
How are the funds dispersed?
Grant funding is not directly paid out to the recipient, funds are distributed depending upon final grant stipulations. This may be in the form of direct reimbursement or direct payments to meet directors, coaches, company purchases, etc.
How long does the grant remain valid?
Both grants are valid for a 12 month period, unless otherwise specific. Only Uplift Grant recipients are given the option to renew.
What can I expect after submitting my application?
After submission, you will receive an email within 1-2 weeks to schedule an interview. Following the interview, you can anticipate a response within 2 weeks. This process may take longer if an additional interview is required, or if the board has any further questions. You will be asked to submit financial statements, such as a paystub, and W-2 forms, and may be asked to submit a budget, expenses, bill payments, etc.
I am a former recipient; can I apply again?
All previous recipients who were discontinued from the program, or voluntarily left the program are not considered for additional grant funding; we do not recommend submitting another application.
Have more questions?
Send an email to [email protected]
Grant funding is open to all USPA powerlifters/members who are experiencing financial hardship, regardless of experience level.
I can afford my gym membership and coaching, but I cannot afford meet registration or new knee sleeves, what grant would be best for me?
Platform Ready Grant. This grant is dedicated for meet-related expenses.
How are applicants selected?
Our Board decision process involves a thorough review and discussion of your application, documents, and interview. Each Board member provides a vote. Funding amounts are decided on a case-by-case basis. You may be granted part or all of funding requested.
Who can write a recommendation letter? What should it include?
It is essential that your recommendation letter be written by a USPA official, coach, gym owner, or fitness mentor who can attest to your commitment to powerlifting and understands your financial situation. This letter should highlight your character and values while providing insight into your dedication to the sport. Letters written by yourself, or family members does not meet our criteria.
How are the funds dispersed?
Grant funding is not directly paid out to the recipient, funds are distributed depending upon final grant stipulations. This may be in the form of direct reimbursement or direct payments to meet directors, coaches, company purchases, etc.
How long does the grant remain valid?
Both grants are valid for a 12 month period, unless otherwise specific. Only Uplift Grant recipients are given the option to renew.
What can I expect after submitting my application?
After submission, you will receive an email within 1-2 weeks to schedule an interview. Following the interview, you can anticipate a response within 2 weeks. This process may take longer if an additional interview is required, or if the board has any further questions. You will be asked to submit financial statements, such as a paystub, and W-2 forms, and may be asked to submit a budget, expenses, bill payments, etc.
I am a former recipient; can I apply again?
All previous recipients who were discontinued from the program, or voluntarily left the program are not considered for additional grant funding; we do not recommend submitting another application.
Have more questions?
Send an email to [email protected]
Applications - Our Application Window is open until March 31st, 2026
USPA Powerlifting Foundation Grants:
- Our Grants are not comparable to company sponsorships.
- Eligibility: USPA powerlifters demonstrating a financial need with complete applications.
- Apply: Submit a complete application by the deadlines provided. Applications will regularly open and close based on the dates listed below.
- Alert: If the application link is not available and you have urgent needs (such as job loss or a death in the family), please email [email protected].
Application Window |
March 1-31, 2026 |
September 1-30, 2026 |
Disclosure
There will be no unlawful discrimination based upon a person’s sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, race, color, creed, national origin, veteran status, marital status, religion, political affiliation, disability, perceived disability, personal appearance or any other legally protected characteristic.