Veteran Projects Fund (VPF) Grants
The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation’s Veteran Projects Fund (VPF) invests in thoughtful projects that create lasting impact for veterans, including members of the military.
Since 2013, VPF grants have helped American Legion Auxiliary entities turn ideas into action by funding innovative solutions to clearly identified needs. Grants are available to eligible ALA tax-exempt entities for projects that directly benefit multiple veterans and improve the services, experiences, or opportunities available to them.
Funding Innovative Solutions for Veterans
VPF grants may be awarded for up to $10,000 for projects completed within 12 months. Applicants must be ALA tax-exempt entities in good standing with IRS nonprofit requirements and ALA compliance standards.
Applicants are expected to contribute at least 20% of the total project cost. If your entity is unable to meet the 20% cost-share requirement, please complete the waiver included in the application.
A strong VPF project:
- Addresses a clearly identified need affecting veterans, including members of the military.
- Proposes a new response or solution to that need.
- Directly benefits multiple veterans.
- Has a clear plan for implementation and impact.
- Demonstrates thoughtful stewardship of Foundation funding.
A need does not have to be new. A long-standing challenge may qualify when the proposed project represents a new response to that need.
The Veteran Projects Fund Does Not Fund
VPF grants cannot be used for:
- Reimbursement of completed projects or items and services purchased before grant funding is awarded.
- Consumable or one-time-use items, including food, handouts, and similar products.
- Projects benefiting only one individual.
- Routine or day-to-day operating expenses.
- Maintenance, repairs, additions, or renovations to ALA- or American Legion-owned buildings or property.
- Maintenance or repairs to government-owned facilities or property, including U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities.
- Improvements to personal property that is also used as a private residence.
- Matching funds for government grants.
- Consultant fees, administrative costs, staff compensation, salaries, wages, insurance, or other personnel-related expenses.
- Seminar or training expenses, including lodging, travel, food, or materials.
- Expenses related to American Legion or American Legion Auxiliary office, social club, or bar operations.
After Your Project Is Funded
Receiving a grant is the beginning of your project’s story. Grantees are responsible for thoughtful implementation, stewardship, and reporting.
A final grant report must be submitted to the ALA Foundation within 30 days of project completion and include:
- A narrative describing the project and its outcomes.
- Project photos.
- Media coverage, when applicable.
- Financial reporting documenting the use of grant funds.
Items purchased with grant funding that can be reclaimed by the ALA may require an indefinite loan agreement when placed with another facility. Grant-funded items and projects must also follow applicable ALA Foundation branding and recognition requirements.
Ready to Get Started?
Start with the problem, not the purchase.
What need have you identified? Who will your project serve? What will change for veterans because your project exists?
Use the Veteran Projects Fund Grant Guide to develop your idea, understand what reviewers are looking for, and build a thoughtful project before you apply.
Questions? Contact the ALA Foundation at ALAF@ALAforVeterans.org.
Need help getting started? Watch the grant writing how-to video