The 2025 Targeted Fund, administered by the United Way of Greater St. Louis, aims to provide flexible funding to support nonprofits that are well-positioned to address specific community needs. This funding is intended for programs that utilize either an emergent or innovative approach to tackle existing challenges within the community. The fund focuses on the 16 counties served by United Way, which includes areas in both Illinois and Missouri. The grant is designed to enhance the capacity and resources of organizations that can effectively respond to identified needs.
The primary purpose of the Targeted Fund is to support programs that address pressing community issues through innovative methods or promising practices. An emergent approach refers to strategies that are in the early stages of implementation, while an innovative approach involves the introduction of new methods or models aimed at improving service delivery. The funding aligns with United Way's impact areas, which include basic needs, health and wellness, community stability and crisis response, jobs and financial mobility, and early childhood and youth success.
Organizations applying for the grant can request funding between a minimum of $10,000 and a maximum of $75,000, with the project period lasting for one year. The funding is intended to support direct services to individuals residing in the designated counties, and applicants must demonstrate their capacity to meet the identified community needs effectively.
To be eligible for the Targeted Fund, organizations must meet several criteria. They must provide direct services to individuals in at least one of the 16 counties within United Way's service area and have been operational for a minimum of two years. Additionally, applicants must submit a federal 501(c)(3) tax determination letter, a certificate of corporate good standing from Missouri or Illinois, and various compliance policies, including those related to the USA Patriot Act, background checks, privacy protection, and non-discrimination. Recent audited financial statements are also required.
The application process includes specific submission requirements that must be adhered to for consideration. Organizations will need to provide detailed information about their programs and how they align with the funding priorities of the United Way. The evaluation criteria will focus on the organization's ability to address community needs, the effectiveness of the proposed approach, and the overall impact of the program.
The deadline for submitting applications for the 2025 Targeted Fund is September 27, 2024. It is important for potential applicants to be aware of this timeline and prepare their submissions accordingly. For further information, interested parties can visit the United Way of Greater St. Louis website or contact the grant administrator, Ingrid Deetz, via email or phone for any specific inquiries related to the application process.
