Affiliate Catalyst Grant Program
NRHA provides the spark. Affiliates build the engine. Sustainable growth is the goal.
The National Reining Horse Association is excited to announce the launch of the Affiliate Catalyst Grant Program, a new initiative approved by the NRHA Executive Committee and Board of Directors to support innovative affiliate-led programs that align with NRHA’s strategic goals and grow reining at the local level.
The Affiliate Catalyst Grant Program is designed to provide competitive, short-term seed funding for projects that increase membership, participation, education, and event entries while creating sustainable growth within NRHA affiliates. Rather than supporting ongoing operating expenses, this program is intended to help affiliates launch new initiatives that can continue to thrive long after the grant period ends.
What This Program IS
- Competitive
- Time-limited (max 3 years)
- Matched with cash investment
- Tied to measurable outcomes
What This Program Is NOT
- Operating support
- Guaranteed funding
- Replacement for fundraising or sponsorships
Resources
How It Works
- Affiliates assume increasing financial responsibility
- Programs must stand on their own by Year 3
- NRHA funding declines each year
Upcoming Informational Webinars
NRHA is hosting the following informational webinars where you can ask questions directly.
- August 26, 2026 – 2 PM Central Time
- September 15, 2026 – 10 AM Central Time
Register now! Meeting links will be provided prior to each webinar.
You’re also welcome to reach out to NRHA staff any time before the October 31 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding can our affiliate request?
Grants are capped at $30,000 per request, disbursed over the term of the award (up to three years) according to the declining-share schedule.
Do we have to pay any of it back?
No this isn’t a loan. But your affiliate is required to contribute a cash match that increases each year (minimum 50% in Year 1, rising to 85% by Year 3), since the program is designed to launch initiatives, your affiliate sustains on its own by Year 3.
What can’t we use the funds for?
Grant funds can’t cover general operating expenses, salaries, debt service, routine prize money, or ongoing subsidies. Funds are meant for new or expanded initiatives, not to prop up existing operations.
Is our affiliate eligible to apply?
You’re eligible if your affiliate is in good standing with NRHA, current on dues, reporting, and compliance obligations, and able to demonstrate the capacity to manage restricted grant funds.
How are applications scored and selected?
Applications are scored across six categories using a 100-point rubric: Strategic Alignment (20 pts), Measurable Growth Impact (25 pts), Financial Sustainability (20 pts), Affiliate Capacity (15 pts), Matching Funds Strength (10 pts), and Replicability/Knowledge value (10 pts). A minimum score of 70 points is required for funding eligibility, and final award decisions are approved by the NRHA Executive Committee/Board.
What happens if we don’t hit our performance benchmarks?
Each grant agreement will include pre-approved benchmarks (e.g., new members, event entries, participant retention). Failure to meet benchmarks may result in reduced funding, early termination of the agreement, or ineligibility for future participation.
Is there a limit on how many affiliates can be funded each year?
Yes. Total annual program funding is capped by Board-approved budget and awarded competitively, so not every eligible application is guaranteed funding.
What do we need to submit, and by when?
The full application (affiliate info, program description, strategic alignment, budget/match, performance metrics, risk & mitigation, and knowledge-sharing plan) is due by October 31, 2026. The application form, program policy, and NRHA’s Strategic Plan are available for download above.
Can we apply after the October 31 deadline?
Late applications may be accepted at NRHA’s discretion, but there’s no guarantee funding will still be available. Annual program funding is capped by Board-approved budget and awarded competitively, so funds may already be committed to applications submitted on time.
Still have questions? Contact Lauren Dushay at ldushay@nrha.com or 405-946-7400 ext. 115.