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 $16M in grants across 195 awardees since the program's inception in 2017. 

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 2024:
   • 45 states impacted, +11 national-level programs, benefiting an estimated 456,000 players, 4,800 coaches, and 2,800 referees.
2. Sharing Best Practices:
   • The Soccer Forward digital resource hub will share previous ITG information and case studies from across the ecosystem.
3. 2025-26 ITG grant cycle:
   • Applications will open in Summer 2025, with recipients announced in November / December 2025.

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