[William Penn Foundation](https://williampennfoundation.org)

June 2026

Recent cycle: $13M+ across 16 grants (2024); individual award sizes vary by project scope.

Supports the expansion and connectivity of Greater Philadelphia’s multi-use trail network, advancing community, health, and equitable access through collaborative regional development.

--- ## Description The Circuit Trails initiative, funded by the William Penn Foundation, aims to expand the Greater Philadelphia region’s network of multi-use trails. The program supports projects that add new miles to the Circuit Trails system, which currently includes over 411 miles and is projected to reach more than 850 miles by 2040. Grants enable not only physical trail development but also coalition-building, outreach, education, and the integration of equity in trail planning and use. The initiative recognizes trails as essential transportation infrastructure and a driver of economic development, public health, and community connectivity across urban, suburban, and rural communities in nine counties in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - In the most recent cycle (2024), the Foundation awarded $13,045,951 across 16 grants for this objective. - Individual award amounts vary based on project size and scope. - Grants support both capital trail-building and related outreach, coalition, and planning activities. --- ## Eligibility - Eligible applicants typically include: - Nonprofit organizations - Government agencies - Coalitions or partnerships working on trail development, outreach, or advocacy within the Circuit Trails region - Projects must contribute to expanding, connecting, or supporting the Circuit Trails network in the Greater Philadelphia area (including nine counties in PA and NJ). - Emphasis on proposals that address equity, community engagement, and measurable progress toward trail completion. --- ## Application Process - Applications are accepted on an annual cycle, with the next anticipated deadline in June 2026. - Interested applicants should review the [How to Apply](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/how-apply) page for guidelines and instructions. - Proposals should clearly articulate how the project will advance the Circuit Trails objective, including expected outcomes, community impact, and alignment with equity goals. - Applicants are encouraged to contact the program officer for guidance before applying. --- ## Additional Information - The Foundation values collaborative proposals and projects that foster cross-sector partnerships. - Progress is measured by miles of trails added and the degree of community benefit, including transportation access, health outcomes, and economic development. - Equity in trail access and use is a core consideration for funding decisions. --- ## External Links - [Program Objective: Circuit Trails (William Penn Foundation)](https://williampennfoundation.org/objective/circuit-trails) - [How to Apply for Funding](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/how-apply) - [About the William Penn Foundation](https://williampennfoundation.org/about) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | More Info | |----------------|------------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------|------------------------------------------------------------| | Michele Perch | Senior Program Officer, Environment and Public Space | [grants@williampennfoundation.org](mailto:grants@williampennfoundation.org) | (215) 988-1830 | [Profile](https://williampennfoundation.org/profile/michele-perch) | ---

Circuit Trails - William Penn Foundation

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