2025 UpTide Nonprofit Accelerator Program

The UpTide Accelerator is a nonprofit accelerator initiative operated by the Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact at 92NY. The 92nd Street Y, New York (92NY) is a historic cultural and community center known for fostering connection through arts, entertainment, and social programming, grounded in Jewish values and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds. Since 2012, its Belfer Center has launched impactful social ventures, including GivingTuesday and the Social Good Summit. SEED SPOT, a partner in this initiative, is a nonprofit accelerator that supports underrepresented entrepreneurs and has helped launch over 4,000 impact-driven businesses. UpTide is a five-month hybrid program tailored for nonprofit organizations that aim to scale their impact. The program runs from September 2025 through January 2026, featuring virtual sessions and a culminating in-person week in New York City, which includes a Showcase Day where participants pitch to potential funders. Applications for the program opened on April 8, 2025, and close on June 2, 2025. Interested organizations are encouraged to join an info session or schedule a call with Miranda Williamson, Director of Recruitment, for further guidance. This accelerator supports a select cohort of five nonprofit leaders—Executive Directors, Presidents, or CEOs of U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations. Participating leaders must be at least 18 years old and employed full-time in their role. Their organizations should demonstrate a strong mission alignment with UpTide’s goal of addressing the “Crisis of Community,” be able to show at least one year of positive programmatic impact data, and have a scalable, replicable service model. Organizations must also serve a minimum of 500 individuals or a meaningful portion of their community. Participants who complete all aspects of the program will receive a $5,000 unrestricted grant. Additional opportunities for grant funding are available through Showcase Day presentations. The program also offers benefits such as mentorship and coaching, a custom three-year strategic plan, pitch deck development, a board engagement session, and integration into a national network of nonprofit peers, mentors, and leaders. The in-person portion of the program will take place in January 2026 in New York City. All related travel, hotel accommodations, and most meals will be covered by UpTide. Participation in all components of the program is mandatory to receive the financial award. Prospective applicants can contact Miranda Williamson, Director of Recruitment, to determine program fit, or attend an informational session. Further details are available at 92NY’s Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact.