United Way of Cayuga County Grant

The United Way of Cayuga County (UWCC) is committed to fostering a thriving community by supporting organizations that promote opportunity and impact in key areas essential to individual and communal well-being. The organization focuses its funding and partnerships on four core areas: Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, Healthy Communities, and Community Resiliency. Through strategic grantmaking, UWCC works alongside community agencies to address critical local issues with targeted, evidence-based programming aimed at long-term impact. Programs under the Youth Opportunity priority should support children and youth from birth through age 21 in achieving success from early education through career readiness. This includes initiatives that enhance school readiness, improve educational outcomes, and provide pathways to household-sustaining employment. Financial Security-focused programs should help individuals secure employment, manage resources, and increase income through access to tools, education, and services that promote economic stability and wealth-building. Healthy Communities grants are intended for programs that address basic needs, housing stability, and social and emotional well-being. These efforts may include food access, safe and affordable housing initiatives, and services that foster strong mental health and community connections. Community Resiliency projects support disaster relief, emergency preparedness, crisis support services like hotlines, and initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. To be eligible for funding, applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations either located in Cayuga County or headquartered elsewhere but providing services to its residents. Funding decisions are made by a volunteer committee that evaluates proposals based on alignment with UWCC focus areas, measurable impact, community engagement, systems change, and organizational leadership. The committee uses community data and research to guide decision-making and prioritize programs that demonstrate strong governance and partnerships. UWCC does not fund individuals, political or religious activities, capital expenses, deficit funding, for-profit entities, or non-registered charities. The 2025–2027 funding cycle begins with an open application window from December 13, 2024, to February 21, 2025, with applications due by 11:59 PM on the closing date. Incomplete or draft applications will not be considered. Submissions must be completed via the online portal, which requires applicants to create or log into an account. Required documentation includes the most recent Board or Committee roster, mission and vision statements, and financial statements (audited or reviewed). Following submission, fund review panels will evaluate applications and conduct meetings with agency leadership between March 3 and April 4, 2025. Funding decisions will be confirmed at the April 23, 2025, UWCC Board of Directors meeting. Funded organizations will receive monthly allocations beginning July 1, 2025, and continuing through June 30, 2027. UWCC nonprofit partners gain access to promotional resources, learning opportunities, and community networking benefits, strengthening their capacity and outreach. While most applications follow the general process outlined, UWCC may request additional clarifying documentation if necessary. Organizations are encouraged to submit complete and timely applications to maximize their chances of receiving funding and to support their missions through partnership with United Way.

Save draft manually; incomplete or draft applications will not be accepted; do not leave blanks—use N/A if needed.