The Methow Valley Fund Game Changer Grant is a funding opportunity provided by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington (CFNCW) to empower nonprofits or collaboratives in the Methow Valley to significantly advance a community issue. Launched to offer impactful, transformative support, this grant encourages visionary ideas that create measurable and lasting change in the Methow Valley. The total funding pool for this round is $100,000, which may be awarded to one or more projects based on merit and potential.
Eligible proposals may include, but are not limited to, launching new initiatives, hiring staff or contractors to expand organizational capacity, or leveraging other funding sources to seize a unique opportunity. Projects must go beyond routine operations and instead aim to "move the needle" on pressing local issues. Examples of funded activities include sustainable staffing strategies, new community programs, or capacity-building efforts. The initiative explicitly excludes emergency funding, debt relief, and deficit coverage.
To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities headquartered in and serving the Methow Valley. Other entities such as government or tribal agencies, schools, and fiscally sponsored programs cannot apply independently but may participate in collaborative applications led by an eligible nonprofit. All grant funds must be used within one year of being awarded, and all grantees must submit a final report at the conclusion of the project.
The application process began on April 1, 2025, and closes on May 1, 2025. After an initial review, 3–4 finalists will be selected in mid-May to participate in a Game Changer Pitch Event on June 24, where each group will deliver a 15-minute presentation followed by up to 25 minutes of Q&A with the selection committee. Final award decisions will be made by June 30, 2025.
Applicants are encouraged to clearly communicate their project’s goals, the strategic need it addresses, and how it will impact the Methow Valley community. For questions regarding the application or grant criteria, applicants should contact Jennifer Short at jennifer.s@cfncw.org. Additional information and the application form are available on the CFNCW website.
