The United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) 2026 Community Impact Grant program supports nonprofit organizations in Scott County, Iowa, and Rock Island County, Illinois, by funding projects in Youth Opportunity & Education, Financial Security & Workforce, and Healthy Community. This three-year funding cycle focuses on advancing UWQC’s "Rise United 2030" goals, with an anticipated $1.5 million available annually based on annual campaign results.
The grant application process involves two stages: a Letter of Intent (LOI) due November 19, 2024, and, for selected applicants, a full proposal due by January 21, 2025. Funding decisions will be announced in May 2025, with funding beginning on July 1, 2025. To apply, organizations must meet eligibility criteria, such as operating continuously for two years, adhering to UWQC Partner Standards, and aligning with UWQC’s impact goals.
Impact Areas and Investment Priorities
Youth Opportunity & Education: Priorities include increasing kindergarten readiness, improving math and reading proficiency, reducing chronic absenteeism, and enhancing college and career readiness.
Financial Security & Workforce: Investments support job training, career pathways, financial literacy, and affordable housing initiatives to help individuals achieve economic stability.
Healthy Community: This area focuses on improving mental health services and food security, aiming to reduce disparities and promote wellness.
Grant Requirements and Evaluation
Applicants may request funding for up to three impact areas, selecting specific investment priorities and strategies. Awards are evaluated based on community impact, cost-efficiency, collaboration, and measurable results. Funded programs must submit outcome data biannually and engage in regular evaluation with UWQC to demonstrate effectiveness.
Application and Support
UWQC offers a virtual grant portal for submission, with a Letter of Intent as the first step. Successful LOIs will lead to an invitation for a full application, including financial documentation, Board rosters, and outcome measurement tools. For assistance, applicants may contact Trisha Piekarczyk at trisha@unitedwayqc.org or 563-344-0339.
