Watson Links Grant

Watson Links Grant is sponsored by Watson Links. Provides funding for golf mentoring initiatives connecting junior golfers with adult mentors.

Press Release: Watson Links Announces 2026 Grant Funding to Expand National Golf Mentoring Opportunities - Watson Links 2026 Grant Funding to Expand National Golf Mentoring Opportunities KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Dec.

3, 2025) — Watson Links is proud to announce the continuation of its national grant funding program for the 2026 calendar year, reaffirming founder and 8-time major champion Tom Watson’s vision of bringing the power of golf mentorship to more young people across the country. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Watson Links continues to grow its impact by connecting junior golfers with caring adult mentors for free on-course opportunities.

In 2025, the organization reached 1,075 participants across 21 markets , thanks to deep collaboration with individuals, coaches, teaching professionals, and community organizations that share a belief in the life-changing value of mentorship and golf. These on-course golf mentoring opportunities are free for both juniors and mentors. They build confidence, community, and a foundation for long-term growth.

Junior golfers are typically aged 10-18 and have at least a basic knowledge of golf. Mentors are adults of all ages and skill levels. “Kids thrive when they have the support of a caring mentor,” said Watson Links Executive Director, Pauly Hart .

“Our grant funding helps communities create those powerful on-course moments between junior golfers and mentors, building skills that foster confidence and character far beyond the course. ” In 2026, Watson Links will again offer startup grants up to $5,000 for new programs and maintenance grants up to $2,500 for existing program expansion.

Funding is available to support golf mentoring initiatives outside the Kansas City market , and will be considered for the following individuals and organizations: LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Chapters High school Boys or Girls Golf Coaches PGA or LPGA Teaching Professionals Former recipients are welcome to apply for maintenance grants. Startup grants are reserved exclusively for new partners.

Initiatives that incorporate mentoring best practices, such as engaging community volunteers, targeting high-school-age juniors, offering pre- or post-round experiences, and providing four or more days of on-course rounds, will receive priority consideration.

Strengthening Programs through Frameworks and Support To help partners deliver meaningful mentoring experiences, Watson Links provides three programming frameworks , including: Grant recipients must implement one or more of these frameworks while working collaboratively with the Watson Links team to ensure quality delivery and participant success.

Funding Details and Allowable Uses Grant awards will range from $1,500 to $5,000 and may be used from March through September 2026 .

Funding is designed to: grow the golf mentorship movement increase course access and personal growth opportunities for juniors provide a meaningful volunteer and playing experience for adult golfers recruit and manage juniors and golf mentors Essential allowable expenses include tee times (walking or pull cart rate), mentor background checks (facilitated by Watson Links if needed), and on-site program manager stipends.

Additional optional uses, such as pre-round clinics, limited participant products, or small prizes, are also permitted when aligned with program goals. A full list of allowable and non-allowable expenses is available in the application details and criteria . Grant Application Window: December 10, 2025 – January 9, 2026 Grant Webinar: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM CT ( Click here to Register.

) Recipients Notified By: January 16, 2026 Submit a pplication via Google Form starting December 10, 2025 linked here . Attend our informational webinar on Tuesday December 16, 2025 at 12:00 pm CT. ( Click here to Register.

) Review or download application details and criteria here . A Growing Movement With Room for Everyone Watson Links welcomes applicants with a passion for mentorship and creating opportunities for junior golfers and community connection. Programs typically serve junior players ages 10–18 who have a basic understanding of golf, and mentors may be adults of any age or skill level eager to give back.

Contact Steph Shogren at [email protected] for additional information or support during the application process. Founded by Tom Watson in 2021, Watson Links is a golf mentoring nonprofit dedicated to helping kids grow through golf. The program pairs junior players with adult mentors for free nine-hole rounds that build character, confidence, and community.

Learn more or become a mentor at www. watsonlinks. org .