AARP Foundation California Quality Employment Grant 2026: Up to $750,000 for Projects Supporting Older Workers
The AARP Foundation is providing grant funding to support California-based projects that strengthen workforce systems and improve quality employment pathways for low-income adults aged 50 and older.
Overview
The AARP Foundation has launched a grant opportunity titled \u201cQuality Employment for Older Workers in California\u201d to support initiatives that improve economic opportunities for financially vulnerable older adults. The initiative focuses on structural and systemic changes within workforce development rather than conventional direct-service delivery. The Foundation plans to invest approximately $2 million, funding between four and eight organizations with awards ranging from $250,000 to $750,000 depending on project scope and duration.
Benefits
- Grant awards range from a minimum expected amount of $250,000 to a maximum of $750,000.
- Projects with a 12-month implementation period may request up to $375,000.
- Projects with a 24-month implementation period may request up to $750,000.
- Support for systems change initiatives, age-inclusive workforce practices, and strengthened service coordination.
Eligibility
- Projects must primarily benefit older adults aged 50 and above who experience low incomes or financial insecurity.
- Activities and impacts must be strictly implemented within the state of California.
- Open to organizations, coalitions, workforce leaders, and community entities capable of addressing systemic employment challenges.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete a two-stage process beginning with a pre-application. Submissions are handled through the AARP Foundation's Fluxx Grantee Portal. Selected applicants will subsequently be invited to submit a full application.
Deadline
The pre-application submission deadline is September 1, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. PT / 10:00 p.m. ET.