Community Investment Grants

The United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) Community Investment Grant for the 2026–2027 cycle supports nonprofit agencies working to improve outcomes for residents in Collier and Monroe Counties, Florida. These grants focus specifically on helping households classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), as well as individuals living below the federal poverty line. These populations include workers essential to the local economy—such as childcare providers, first responders, service industry staff, and others—who earn above the poverty threshold but struggle to meet basic living expenses like housing, childcare, and healthcare. The grant program is a key mechanism through which UWCK delivers its mission to improve the financial, educational, and health outcomes of the local population. The 2026–2027 Community Investment Grant cycle aligns with UWCK’s transition to a Thriving United Way model. This model centers on impact-driven investment, results-based accountability, and clear outcomes. The program is structured around three core Impact Areas: Financial Security, Healthy Community, and Youth Opportunity. Each area includes specific initiatives such as adult education and job training, healthcare access, food security, early childhood education, and college and career readiness. Agencies may only apply for funding under one Impact Area and are required to demonstrate alignment with defined outcome indicators relevant to that category. Applications are submitted exclusively through the online e-CImpact portal. The portal opens on December 3, 2025, and closes on January 7, 2026. New applicants must request access credentials in advance, as approval is required before they can begin the application. Site visits are scheduled between January 14 and January 30, 2026, followed by a question-and-answer period. Funding decisions are announced by March 20, 2026. Successful applicants will receive their Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on March 23 and must return signed MOUs by March 27. Award distribution begins April 1, 2026, and the grant cycle ends on March 31, 2027. Reporting requirements include an interim report due October 15, 2026, and a final report due April 15, 2027. To qualify, agencies must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations operating programs within Collier or Monroe County. They must demonstrate a nondiscrimination policy, financial accountability, and active registration on UWCK’s volunteer platform. Required documentation includes audited financials, balance sheets, IRS letters, insurance policies, and board rosters. Agencies are also expected to track and report on demographic data, output and outcome indicators, and provide narrative impact stories as part of their reporting. The grant funding can be used to cover both direct and indirect costs necessary to execute the proposed program, but cannot be used for capital projects, lobbying, fundraising events, or general agency deficits. While the total available program funding and individual award ranges are not disclosed, funding is distributed monthly over the grant period. Programs are expected to show measurable results, particularly in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and should demonstrate responsiveness, scalability, and collaboration. Applicants needing assistance may contact Norma Rodriguez for portal support or Tiffany Pellicier for program-related questions. UWCK emphasizes shared commitment, collaboration, and accountability in achieving long-term, sustainable impact in the Florida Keys and Collier County communities.

Use outcome-aligned metrics and ensure portal registration is completed before deadline.