Facts & Questions
Do I need to be a professional grant writer to win a grant?
No. There have been 60 different associations selected to receive grants since 2010. The applications have been submitted by presidents, board members, equipment managers, registrars and recruiting coordinators. In other words, they are volunteers just like you, and most don’t have any formal experience writing grant applications.
Everything I do is as a volunteer. Is applying for this grant really worth my time?
Gear Up Minnesota! doesn’t require a 60 page grant application. In fact, many grants selected in the past have been around 400-600 words. Think of it as a proposal. Use clear and concise language to convince us why your association should receive a grant and what you will do with it. Keep in mind, past grant winners have been awarded up to $6,000 worth of equipment, and the only cost was the time put into the application.
Where can I find the paperwork?
Applications are available online, eliminating the cost and hassle of paperwork.
How much money do grant winners receive?
Grants will be delivered in the form of equipment, not a check. Associations in the Twin Cities area will be sent equipment certificates that can be redeemed at a nearby Total Hockey store. Associations outside the metro area will be mailed sets of learn to play equipment.
What is the purpose of the grant?
Although some may think the grant is about saving associations money, the real purpose of Gear Up Minnesota! is to facilitate growth initiatives throughout Minnesota. The intent is to help associations attract new players by making hockey more accessible by eliminating the initial cost of equipment.
When do grant winners receive the equipment?
Gear Up Minnesota! applications are reviewed during the spring of each year. The equipment (or certificates) will be delivered to the selected associations before the start of the following season.
How should we handle the equipment (or certificates)?
Associations that receive equipment directly should use the equipment to introduce new players to hockey by allowing them to use it for their first season at no cost (may require deposit).
For associations that receive equipment certificates, it is highly recommended that the vouchers are handed out to the players (or families) who will be using the equipment for them to redeem at Total Hockey. This fulfills three important objectives: a) reduces the workload of the volunteers b) allows Total Hockey staff to supply equipment that fits the individual who will be wearing it c) first year players and parents are provided with equipment education and tips while they are outfitted with gear.
Following the season, the equipment should be returned to the association where it can be reused for many years to come.
What sizes of equipment are available?
Gear Up Minnesota! equipment grants are starter equipment sets, designed for players age 4-9. Players that redeem equipment certificates at a Total Hockey location will have an array of sizes to chose from to ensure proper fitting of equipment, but these sets aren’t intended for players over age 9.
What kind of quality are the equipment sets?
In the past, equipment programs occasionally provided equipment of subpar quality. That is not the case with Gear Up Minnesota!. All of the equipment comes from brand name manufacturers you trust like Reebok & CCM, ensuring Gear Up Minnesota! provides the latest in high quality starter equipment to keep your kids safe.
