Community Investment Grant

The United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) offers funding opportunities through its Community Impact (CI) Grant Program to support programs that address key community needs in the areas of Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, and Financial Security. This grant is designed to serve residents in Apache, Coconino, and Navajo counties, excluding reservation areas. Eligible organizations must be non-profit entities with 501(c)(3) status for at least two years and must demonstrate financial and operational accountability. Programs eligible for funding must provide services in one or more of the following focus areas: Youth Opportunity, which includes early childhood development (kindergarten readiness, early literacy support) and positive youth development (mental well-being, inclusion, leadership, and college/career readiness); Healthy Community, which focuses on safety and security through basic needs assistance (safe shelter, food security, childcare, job-related transportation, medication assistance, and general basic needs support); and Financial Security, which encompasses financial literacy and workforce development initiatives. Organizations must also comply with federal and state non-discrimination laws and anti-terrorism regulations. To qualify for funding, organizations must submit various documents, including proof of incorporation, IRS Form 990 or equivalent financial documentation, an organizational chart, a current budget, and financial audits or reviews based on their total revenue. They must also maintain an active, locally based volunteer board and participate in a UWNA Workplace Campaign. Funding amounts vary based on the organization's history with UWNA. New organizations can apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, while returning organizations may request between $5,000 and $35,000. Organizations may submit up to two applications per region, provided the programs are actively operating. Certain types of projects and organizations are not eligible for funding, including arts and culture programs, sports teams, capital campaigns, environmental projects, direct religious activities (except for community-serving programs like food banks), scholarships for individuals (except for childcare tuition available to the general community), exclusive membership-based programs, and health care services covered by insurance. The grant review process ensures that funded programs align with UWNA’s community impact priorities. For additional information or to verify application requirements, organizations should refer to UWNA’s official guidelines and contact representatives as needed.