The Age Strong 2025 Expanding Engagement Grant Opportunity is offered by the City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission under the leadership of Mayor Michelle Wu. This grant aims to enhance social engagement programming for older adults in Boston, particularly in underserved communities. The program seeks to reduce social isolation by supporting organizations that provide meaningful social connections and engagement opportunities for older adults. By fostering community connections within each Boston neighborhood, the initiative hopes to ensure that high-quality engagement programs are widely accessible.

The funding for this grant comes from the City of Boston’s Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget, with a total of $500,000 allocated for the program. If additional funding becomes available, the Age Strong Commission may expand the total grant pool to increase the number or size of awards. The grant period extends from May 5, 2025, through May 4, 2026. The grant supports new and existing social engagement programs, with awards divided into four levels. Level 1 grants, up to $2,500, fund small-scale or one-time events, such as special celebrations or small group transportation costs. Level 2 grants, ranging from $2,501 to $9,999, are intended for social engagement groups such as senior housing buildings or faith-based senior groups looking to expand their programs. Level 3 grants, ranging from $10,000 to $19,999, aim to stabilize and expand existing social engagement programs, while Level 4 grants, from $20,000 to $50,000, fund newly established programs in need of acceleration and broader expansion.

Eligible applicants must be Boston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or have an official fiscal sponsor. They must work on behalf of older adults or multiple generations in Boston and be in good financial standing. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate the capacity to successfully implement programming that strengthens community connections. They must also comply with current or past Age Strong grant reporting requirements. The program places a strong emphasis on supporting grassroots nonprofits and organizations that contribute to a more engaged and healthy Boston.

The application process requires submission by Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. (EST). No extensions will be granted. A virtual information session for interested applicants is scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (EST). Applications will be reviewed during March 2025, with award announcements expected in April 2025.

For more information or inquiries, applicants can contact the Age Strong Commission at 617-635-4366 or via email at ava.portela@boston.gov. The commission’s office is located at 1 City Hall Square, Room 271, Boston, MA 02201.