USA Archery is proud to announce an exciting change that will further empower our State Associations beginning in 2026. After extensive evaluation, member feedback, and consideration of input received from a State Association Task Force regarding the strengths and challenges State Associations face, USA Archery will transition from the current rebate model to a new annual grant funding model. Grant funding may be used for event development, operations, and sport development—helping states expand opportunities for archers of all ages and skill levels.
This change represents a major step forward in how USA Archery supports its State Associations and the athletes, coaches, judges, and clubs they serve. “State Associations are vital partners in delivering state championship events and other support for our members at every level,” commented USA Archery Chief of Sport Performance and Operations, Mary Emmons. “Together, we can build stronger programs, expand opportunities for participation, and ensure the long-term success of archery in every community.”
The quarterly rebate model, while valuable, often resulted in fluctuating and unpredictable funding and didn’t require more thorough planning. The new grant program addresses these challenges by providing State Associations with annualized, lump-sum grant payments at the start of each year, enabling earlier planning and expanded opportunities for membership growth, event development, and sport advancement.
Grant allocations will not only provide the opportunity to match but may exceed the rebate model funding levels, with added financial incentives for states that pursue new initiatives, grow membership, and expand event offerings.
To make the most of these opportunities, State Associations will share an annual plan and budget—a new step that ensures resources are used transparently and strategically and supports sustained success for years to come. USA Archery believes this change reflects the shared values of increased accountability and forward planning and innovation that are essential for long-term growth.
Through this new program, USA Archery hopes State Associations will continue to collaborate closely with the national office and each other. USA Archery will provide templates to aid in generating successful grant applications and is happy to offer one-on-one support to assist states in the planning process as we transition to this model.
This grant program and its application process will give more visibility to State Association initiatives to serve and grow members that can be the shared to all State Associations and State Coordinators. Together, we can champion new initiatives at the grassroots and state level, grow participation across all disciplines, support the development of athletes, coaches, and judges and recognize and reward achievements with increased support.
Most importantly, this new model reflects a collective commitment to enhancing member benefits and improving the sport of archery for everyone. As USA Archery moves toward the 2026 launch of the annual grant program, we are confident that this transition will not only strengthen our State Associations but also create more meaningful opportunities for archers nationwide.
“This is a step forward in uniting USA Archery and our State Associations in a common vision,” said USA Archery CEO Rod Menzer. “While this is a change requiring more thought and planning, we celebrate this change as a milestone in building a stronger, more united archery community—and we look forward to seeing the many ways State Associations will use this support to inspire participation, foster success, improve governance and transparency and grow the sport we all love”.
The grant program underscores USA Archery’s continued investment in grassroots growth, event expansion, and athlete development ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
For more information about USA Archery’s grant programs and strategic plans please visit www.usarchery.org.
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