Rural Outreach Grant applications will open on Monday, January 5, 2026, and remain open through Thursday, October 15, 2026, or until available funds are fully committed. Reimbursement requests must be submitted by December 18th, 2026. In 2026, the 10% financial commitment requirement is waived for associations under Right Tools, Right Now.
For questions or to explore how a Rural Outreach could support your association’s rural outreach initiatives, contact Hannah Dannenfelser, Manager, Grants and Resources, or schedule a Community Outreach Planning Session for tailored support and ideas to help you make the most of future grant opportunities.
Click to download Rural Outreach Toolkit
Rural Outreach Grants support state and local REALTOR® association initiatives, including trainings, forums, events, studies, and ordinance drafting, on a wide range of rural issues such broadband, well and septic, open space preservation, environmental standards, and planning and zoning issues that are unique to rural communities.
Questions? Email RuralOutreachGrants@nar.realtor or Hannah Dannenfelser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideas for Using a Rural Outreach Grant and Success Stories
Level 1 Grants
Level 1 Rural Outreach grants support efforts to educate REALTORS® about rural issues.
Details:
- Maximum award: $3,000.
- Associations may receive one Level 1 grant per calendar year.
- Funds are disbursed using a reimbursement process.
- Grant recipients must complete an evaluation form for the supported activity.
→ LEVEL 1 RURAL OUTREACH GRANT APPLICATION
Level 2 Grants
Level 2 Rural Outreach grants support initiatives, such as studies, events, public outreach on rural issues in partnership with public and private stakeholders.
Details:
- Maximum award: $7,500.
- Associations may receive one Level 2 grant per calendar year.
- Funds are disbursed using a reimbursement process.
- Grant recipients must complete an evaluation form for the supported activity.
→ LEVEL 2 RURAL OUTREACH GRANT APPLICATION
Rural Outreach Resources
Rural Outreach Grant Toolkit for REALTOR® Associations (NEW!)
The toolkit offers practical tips and showcases successful examples from associations nationwide, covering initiatives on topic areas like well & septic issues, open space, broadband access, and climate resilience. The toolkit serves as a valuable resource for associations serving rural municipalities and working to enhance community advocacy.
Rural Outreach Grant Webinar Recording (NEW!)
The webinar recording from June 2025 titled “Enhancing Rural Development Initiatives: NAR’s Rural Outreach grant” on the Community Outreach webinar page provides an overview of the Rural Outreach grant, success stories, and strategic tips on how your association can elevate its advocacy.
Success Story Database
Search the word “rural” in the REALTOR® Party Success Story database to read numerous examples of successes from state and local associations around the country who are serving rural areas and hosting rural initiatives.