Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
The T-Mobile Hometown Grants Program provides up to $50,000 to nonprofit organizations, local governments, and tribal entities in rural towns for shovel-ready community projects. Focused on technology, outdoor spaces, the arts, and community centers, the program aims to strengthen local connections, foster opportunity, and deliver measurable impact within a 12-month implementation period.
What is the T-Mobile Hometown Grants Program?
The Hometown Grants Program is a multi-year initiative by T-Mobile to support rural towns with projects that improve community infrastructure, create shared spaces, and enhance connectivity. Through a $25 million investment over five years across 500 rural towns, the program empowers communities to implement initiatives that might otherwise lack funding, fostering long-term local impact.
Funding Details
Grant Amount: Up to $50,000 per project
Investment Scope: $25 million across 500 rural towns over five years
Project Timeline: Must be completed within 12 months of funding
Eligible Uses:
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Technology upgrades in public spaces
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Outdoor recreational spaces and trails
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Arts and cultural initiatives
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Community center improvements
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Historic building revitalization
Focus Criteria: Projects must address demonstrated community needs, show measurable impact, and strengthen local engagement and partnerships
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations
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Local government entities and town staff
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Tribal governments and leaders
Population Requirement: Towns with populations under 50,000
Leadership: Elected officials, town managers or employees, tribal leaders, and nonprofit community leaders
Ineligible Applicants: For-profit businesses
Application Requirements
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Up to five letters of support from local government, community organizations, or partners to demonstrate broad engagement
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Project proposals demonstrating feasibility, readiness, and alignment with program priorities
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Commitment to provide project status updates at six and twelve months post-award
Why This Grant Matters
The Hometown Grants Program:
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Strengthens rural communities by funding projects with tangible local benefits
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Fosters collaboration and engagement among residents, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations
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Supports digital connectivity, equitable opportunities, and sustainable community development
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Provides resources for projects that enhance quality of life and long-term community resilience
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Ensure your organization or local entity meets the nonprofit or government requirements and town population criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Project Proposal Detail objectives, expected community impact, timeline, budget, and feasibility.
Step 3: Gather Support Letters Secure up to five letters demonstrating community alignment and backing.
Step 4: Submit Application Apply through T-Mobile’s official portal before the stated deadline.
Step 5: Implement and Report Execute the project within 12 months and submit updates at six and twelve months to ensure accountability.
Common Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
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Focus on shovel-ready projects that can be completed within 12 months
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Demonstrate clear community benefits and measurable outcomes
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Secure letters of support early to show community alignment
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Avoid proposing projects outside rural towns or involving for-profit entities
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Ensure project budget and plan are realistic and feasible
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum grant amount? $50,000 per project.
2. Who can apply? Nonprofits, local governments, and tribal entities in rural towns under 50,000 population.
3. Are for-profit businesses eligible? No, only nonprofits and government entities may apply.
4. What types of projects are funded? Technology upgrades, outdoor spaces, arts initiatives, community centers, and historic building revitalization.
5. How many letters of support are required? Up to five from local government or community partners.
6. What is the project timeline? Projects must be completed within 12 months of funding.
7. Are progress updates required? Yes, at six and twelve months post-award to ensure transparency and accountability.
Conclusion
T-Mobile’s Hometown Grants Program empowers rural towns to implement meaningful, shovel-ready projects that enhance connectivity, community spaces, and quality of life. By supporting initiatives with strong local engagement and measurable outcomes, the program strengthens small-town resilience and fosters long-term community development.
For more information, visit T-Mobile.
