Community Investment Process Grant Program

United Way of Kennebec Valley (UWKV) administers the Community Investment Process to allocate funding to programs that align with its long-term strategic initiative, Impact2032. This initiative is focused on improving health, education, and financial stability for residents of Kennebec County, Maine. The grant process reflects UWKV's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and community engagement. Funding decisions are made possible through donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations. For the 2025–2027 cycle, applications closed in January 2025, with awards to be disbursed beginning in May 2025. The next grant cycle is anticipated to open in fall 2026. UWKV offers three types of grants through this process: Strategic Investment Grants, Basic Needs Grants, and Innovation Grants. Strategic Investment Grants support existing programs aligned with the Impact2032 vision and are the primary funding vehicle. Basic Needs Grants provide simplified access to smaller funding amounts for organizations addressing immediate community needs. Innovation Grants encourage experimentation with new approaches to service delivery and social impact. These grants support novel solutions that improve effectiveness, efficiency, collaboration, or sustainability. Each grant type has a defined funding range. Strategic Investment Grants offer between $10,000 and $50,000. Basic Needs Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000, and Innovation Grants offer between $5,000 and $30,000. All funding requests must not exceed 35% of the program's total budget. Additionally, an organization’s total request across all programs and processes must not surpass $75,000. Programs are required to expend funds during the two-year funding period (May 2025–March 2027) and must report data accordingly. The application process consists of two parts: a Letter of Intent and a full Application. All submissions must be made through UWKV’s e-CImpact online grant platform. Training on this platform is mandatory for applicants. Notably, this cycle does not require site visits or program presentations. To be eligible, programs must serve Kennebec County residents or unhoused individuals and must align with one of the Impact2032 vision statements. All applicants must have endorsed the Impact2032 initiative before submitting their LOI. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public school districts, municipal entities, and Indian Tribal governments. Fiscal sponsorship is permitted with a formal agreement. Financial documentation requirements vary based on organizational revenue. All applicants must submit an IRS Form 990 or an explanation if unavailable. They must also conduct an annual United Way campaign among staff or board members during each funding year and agree to UWKV’s Anti-Terrorism Compliance and DEI Statement. Successful applicants will be required to sign the Partner Program Agreement covering the funding period.

Clearly demonstrate alignment with Impact2032. Choose appropriate grant type. Endorse Impact2032 in advance. Use e-CImpact platform correctly. Ensure financial documentation meets thresholds.