The READY Communities Funding Collaborative is a new public-philanthropic pilot grantmaking program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA), coordinated by Grantmakers In Aging (GIA), and supported by Pennsylvania’s philanthropic organizations. The Collaborative will align public and philanthropic resources to support Pennsylvania’s communities in becoming accessible, inclusive, vibrant places for older residents, people living with dementia, and neighbors of all ages.
The 2026 Grant Cycle RFP will focus on community-driven projects that align with at least one of the five priorities of Aging Our Way, PA, the Commonwealth’s 10-year Multisector Plan for Aging (MPA), and support a community’s older residents, neighbors living with dementia, or both. For the 2026 READY Communities grant cycle, PDA will contribute $325,000 in public seed funding. Using these funds, PDA will commit a minimum of 50% of the requested amount for selected projects. Participating philanthropic organizations across the state will then have the opportunity to review selected applications to contribute to or match public investment.
Applications will be evaluated based on strategic alignment, equitable impact, budget feasibility, and strength of community partnerships.
