Mental Well-being Grant Program

The Mental Well-being grant program is administered by Florida Blue Foundation, a private philanthropic organization focused on improving health outcomes across Florida. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that address food security, mental well-being, healthy communities, and health disparities. This specific funding opportunity is dedicated to advancing mental well-being by supporting programs that enhance access to care and strengthen the mental health workforce across Florida. The foundation operates with a mission-driven approach to improve the overall health of individuals and communities, particularly those facing systemic barriers to care. The purpose of this grant program is to fund innovative and effective solutions that address unmet mental health needs and promote resilience among individuals and families. The program emphasizes two primary focus areas: enhancing access to mental health services and strengthening Florida’s mental health workforce. Funded programs are expected to address issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, isolation, and workforce shortages in behavioral health. The grant seeks to improve outcomes by supporting both direct service delivery and workforce development initiatives that expand access to qualified professionals. Funding for this program totals approximately $3.2 million and is distributed through four-year grants ranging from $300,000 to $400,000 per award, with annual allocations between $75,000 and $100,000. Funds may be used for salaries, employee training, program materials, travel related to the grant, technology, and indirect costs up to 10 percent. However, funding cannot be used for research and development, capital campaigns, buildings, profit-generating enterprises, or programs focused on substance abuse. The foundation expects applicants to submit detailed program milestones and budgets outlining activities and outcomes across the full grant period. Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public agencies, universities, colleges, training centers, schools, healthcare-related facilities, and faith-based institutions that are incorporated in Florida or provide services within the state. Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity, relevant expertise, and at least three years of operational history. Additional eligibility requirements include the ability to deliver targeted programs, manage initiatives effectively, and reach intended populations. Organizations not based in Florida may apply if funds are directed toward Florida-based programming and required documentation is provided. The application process is conducted through an online grants management system and requires submission of multiple components, including a program milestone document, detailed budget and narrative, financial statements, IRS Form 990, organizational chart, board list, and partnership agreements where applicable. Applicants are also required to watch an informational webinar prior to submission. Applications must be submitted electronically, and all attachments must be uploaded in PDF format. The foundation recommends early submission to avoid technical issues. Applications opened on April 2, 2026, and are due by May 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions in September 2026, and selected grantees must participate in required orientations in September and October 2026. Grant agreements become effective in September 2026, with program implementation beginning in October 2026. The program includes ongoing reporting requirements, including use of the Harvard Flourishing Index to measure participant outcomes and regular progress reporting throughout the grant period. Applications are reviewed by a committee of internal and external experts, with final approval granted by the foundation’s Board of Directors. Evaluation criteria emphasize organizational capacity, alignment with funding priorities, and potential for measurable impact. Additional consideration is given to organizations serving specific high-need ZIP codes, rural areas, or those incorporating innovative technology such as artificial intelligence into their programs. The program is competitive, with limited awards available, and applicants are encouraged to align proposals closely with stated priorities to increase competitiveness.

Align proposal with one of the two funding focuses clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes and participant impact and ensure all required documents are complete and submitted early to avoid technical issues