United Way of North Central Pennsylvania Innovation Grant

The 2025–2026 Innovation Grant is a funding initiative by the United Way of North Central Pennsylvania (UWNCPA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in Lycoming, Sullivan, and Tioga Counties. UWNCPA is known for its commitment to building resilient communities and addressing systemic barriers to health, education, and financial stability. The organization is particularly focused on assisting the ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) population. Through the Innovation Grant, UWNCPA seeks to invest in groundbreaking projects and services that fill gaps in the community where no other program currently exists. This grant aims to support original, community-based programs that address unmet local needs in ways not previously attempted or replicated. Proposals should reflect fresh, bold ideas with the potential for real impact, and must demonstrate that the proposed solution is not duplicative of existing efforts. Priority will be given to organizations that align with UWNCPA’s strategic impact areas, including Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. These include services ranging from healthcare access and maternal health to workforce training and environmental sustainability. A particular emphasis is placed on proposals that demonstrate an innovative approach to solving critical service gaps. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with a full-time presence and operations in Lycoming, Sullivan, or Tioga Counties. Additional requirements include registration with the State of Pennsylvania’s Bureau of Charitable Organizations (if applicable), alignment with UWNCPA’s Community Impact goals or service to the ALICE population, and a willingness to promote UWNCPA and participate in media or reporting requests. Organizations must also agree to submit a final report at the end of the funding year and attend the Annual Meeting on October 14, where awards will be announced. The application process begins with a Request for Proposal (RFP), submitted in the form of a one- to two-page letter detailing the proposed idea or program. RFPs are due no later than Monday, July 28, 2025, at noon. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full grant application, which will be made available on August 15, 2025, and must be completed and submitted by noon on September 19, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances. Grants of up to $25,000 will be awarded at the discretion of UWNCPA and the Community Impact Grant Review Team, based in part on the evolving needs of the community at the time of evaluation. Applicants should be aware that this is a one-time grant and is not intended to become part of an organization’s regular operating budget. All awarded funds must be used for the purposes outlined in the application, unless otherwise approved by the grant review team. Evaluation of full applications will be based on six key criteria: alignment with UWNCPA’s priority goals, program quality, reach and scope, demonstrated outcomes, collaboration and partnerships, and financial need. Notably, proposals must illustrate innovative thinking and a clear plan for measurable impact. For further guidance and to strengthen proposals, applicants are encouraged to consult data on the ALICE population available through the United Way of Pennsylvania and United for ALICE websites. Questions and RFPs should be directed to Amber Newell at grants@uwncpa.org.

Applicants should use ALICE data to demonstrate need and strengthen their proposal.