The USPA Foundation is committed to supporting passionate athletes who demonstrate financial need and a desire to give back to the sport of powerlifting. We seek individuals who are dedicated to their personal growth, committed to strengthening the powerlifting community, and willing to invest their time in helping others succeed.

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must:

• Demonstrate financial need. Applicants must submit recent financial documentation, including a W-2 or 1099 and most recent pay stubs. Applicants receiving government or veteran assistance must also provide a current benefits verification letter.

• Submit a letter of recommendation. Applicants must provide a letter of recommendation from a qualified member of the powerlifting community, such as a coach, USPA referee, meet official, or gym owner. Letters may not be submitted by family members or individuals without a direct professional or athletic connection to the applicant.

• Be in good standing with the USPA or another recognized powerlifting federation.

• Commit to completing the required volunteer hours to maintain grant eligibility.

• Successfully complete a background check.

Uplift Grant
Provides extended financial support to athletes demonstrating financial need while encouraging meaningful involvement in the powerlifting community. This grant may help cover ongoing expenses such as coaching fees, gym memberships, and eligible competition costs, providing sustained support throughout an athlete’s development.

Platform Ready Grant
Provides financial assistance to athletes preparing for competition by helping offset competition-related expenses, including membership fees, meet entry fees, and competition gear.

Applicants may apply for only one grant opportunity. Please review each program’s eligibility requirements, funding guidelines, and volunteer commitment to determine which grant best aligns with your goals and needs.

Applying is simple:

1. Select the grant program that best fits your needs.

2. Complete the online application during the application period.

3. Submit all required supporting documentation.

4. Interviews are conducted and applications are reviewed by the foundation board members.

5. Selected applicants will be notified after the review process.

Incomplete applications or applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.

Giving back is at the heart of the USPA Foundation's mission. Grant recipients are expected to contribute to the growth of the powerlifting community by completing the volunteer hours required by their grant program.

Volunteer opportunities may include:

• Assisting at sanctioned competitions

• Supporting Foundation initiatives

• Mentoring or helping new athletes

• Community outreach and fundraising events

• Other approved fundraising activities

Volunteer service helps ensure that today's recipients become tomorrow's leaders within the sport.

Can I apply for more than one grant?
No. Applicants may apply for only one grant opportunity. We encourage applicants to carefully review the eligibility requirements and funding guidelines for each program before selecting the grant that best aligns with their needs and goals.

Does meeting the requirements guarantee funding?
No. Grants are awarded based on eligibility, financial need, application strength, and available funding.

Can I apply if I have not competed yet? (Or if I have competed, but not in the USPA?)
Yes. We encourage all lifters, regardless of experience level to apply.

What happens if I cannot complete my volunteer commitment?
Recipients are expected to fulfill their volunteer commitment. Failure to do so may affect eligibility for future Foundation opportunities.

Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you need assistance before applying, please contact info@uspapowerliftingfoundation.org. We're happy to help guide you through the application process.