UW Valleys Community Impact Grant

The United Way St. Croix & Red Cedar Valleys (UW Valleys) offers the Community Impact Grant program, which supports nonprofit organizations that focus on improving the health, education, and financial stability of residents in the six counties of Burnett, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix in Western Wisconsin. The primary goal of this grant program is to foster partnerships with local organizations in order to expand access to resources and services that help improve the well-being of individuals and families in the region. The health-related focus of the program is to provide access to nutritious food, quality healthcare, and services for underserved communities. UW Valleys aims to work with local groups to reduce barriers to healthy choices and support residents in making those choices. The education goal is to support the development of children and youth by working with schools, families, and community organizations to connect young people with necessary educational resources. Lastly, the financial stability aspect of the program helps individuals build generational wealth by creating opportunities for career development, stable housing, and financial security. For the 2025-2026 cycle, grant applications will be open starting January 13, 2025, and all submissions must be received by 5:00 PM on February 28, 2025. Applicants must ensure their applications are complete, including all required information, and any items that do not apply should be marked as "N/A." If selected for funding, grantees will be required to submit a detailed report by July 31, 2026, to evaluate the impact of the grant on the community and inform future funding decisions. In 2024, the grants ranged from $1,500 to $25,000, with the average award amount being around $6,900. The program is highly competitive, and only complete applications will be considered. Selected organizations will undergo a Citizen Review Panel process, followed by a review by the United Way Community Impact Committee. Grant awards will be announced by May 26, 2025, with payments distributed quarterly beginning on August 15, 2025. The application process for the grant is annual, and the grants are only available to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Additionally, applicants must focus on health, education, or financial stability within the six eligible counties. The next cycle for this grant will open on January 13, 2025.