UFC Foundation Awards $10,000 Grant to Support Beat the Streets National GearUp! Campaign

Beat the Streets National is proud to announce a $10,000 grant from the UFC Foundation in support of the 2026 GearUp! campaign, helping provide new wrestling shoes to first-year wrestlers across the Beat the Streets network.

The UFC Foundation has been a consistent supporter of the Beat the Streets mission, investing in programs that use wrestling to create opportunities for young people. In addition to its financial support, UFC has helped bring the sport to life for BTS student-athletes through athlete appearances, clinics, and special experiences that connect young wrestlers with professional athletes and the broader combat sports community.

This latest grant will support GearUp!, Beat the Streets National’s annual effort to remove one of the first financial barriers facing new wrestlers: access to proper footwear.

The 2026 GearUp! campaign has a goal of providing 3,500 pairs of new wrestling shoes to first-year wrestlers by the end of the year. Shoes will be distributed through accredited Beat the Streets member organizations from coast to coast, helping thousands of young people begin their wrestling journey with the equipment they need to participate confidently and safely.

“The UFC Foundation continues to demonstrate a meaningful commitment to the young people we serve,” said James Mangan, Executive Director of Beat the Streets National. “Their support extends beyond financial contributions. Through grants, athlete engagement, and direct interaction with our student-athletes, they continue to help strengthen the connection between wrestling, opportunity, and lifelong development.”

With the support of partners like the UFC Foundation, Beat the Streets National continues to strengthen local organizations while expanding access to wrestling and youth development opportunities in communities across the country.

About GearUp!

GearUp! is a Beat the Streets National initiative designed to ensure that first-year wrestlers have access to the basic equipment they need to participate. In 2026, BTS National aims to distribute up to 3,500 pairs of new wrestling shoes through its accredited member organizations nationwide.