Innovate to Grow

U.S. Soccer exists in service to soccer. Everything we say and do must grow and strengthen the game, in all its forms, for everyone.

Innovate To Grow (ITG) grants are an important way that U.S. Soccer supports member-led initiatives that expand participation and access to the game.

Thanks to the continued generosity of our commercial and philanthropic partners, we have now approved over $19M in grants across 214 awardees since the program's inception in 2017, providing impact to over 1.84 million players, 54,000 coaches, and 53,000 referees across 46 states and 17 national-level programs. In 2025, Bank of America became a partner of ITG to provide support to grantees including activations, volunteers, pro-bono financial advising. The 2025-26 cycle was also the first time grants could include renovations or improvements needed to maximize or repurposes existing spaces, the first time ITG supported places to play. 

Members have expressed a strong interest in amplifying best practices from ITG-funded programs, enabling similar initiatives in their local communities. 

With the launch of the Soccer Forward Foundation, we now have a platform to share ideas and support efforts to grow participation in the sport. By funding and sharing new initiatives, we aim to expand their impact and help more communities benefit.

1. Grants in 2025:
   • 28 states impacted, +6 national-level programs, benefiting an estimated 40,472 players, 984 coaches, 13,797 referees, and 784 schools/facilities/organizations.
2. Sharing Best Practices:
   • The Soccer Forward digital resource hub includes previous ITG information and case studies from across the ecosystem.
3. 2026-27 ITG grant cycle:
   • Applications will open in Summer 2026, with recipients announced in November / December 2026.

For updates on ITG grants, best practices, and application details, please email ITGFund@ussoccer.org.