Community Investment Grant

The Heart of Arkansas United Way offers Community Investment Grants to support nonprofit organizations operating in Pulaski, Lonoke, or Saline Counties. These grants are intended to fund both new and existing programs that align with the United Way’s core focus areas: Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Healthy Community, with a particular emphasis on individuals and families living below the ALICE threshold or the Federal Poverty Line. The program aims to strengthen the community by empowering organizations that provide impactful services in these areas. Grants are offered on a half-year basis with award amounts ranging between $3,000 and $12,000. Awardees may be eligible to renew their grant following a site visit in winter 2026. All awarded funds are provided in two installments, one in September and one in December. Programs demonstrating strong outcomes may receive two additional payments in March and June 2026, contingent on a positive site visit and the results of the United Way’s fundraising campaign. Although funds may be used toward administrative expenses, restrictions apply to capital campaigns and reserve-only funds. Applicants must clearly show how the funding supports tangible program outcomes. The grant application process opens on June 16 and closes on July 18. Awards will be announced in late August. Organizations must apply through the Foundant portal by logging in and completing the online application. Supporting documentation includes a signed copy of the most recent IRS Form 990 or 990 EZ. Applicants are encouraged to watch instructional videos on how to use the Foundant portal and are provided with downloadable application previews and budget worksheets to aid in preparation. To qualify, applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations or other IRS-designated tax-exempt entities. Additional requirements include maintaining a locally based board of directors that meets quarterly, registration with the Arkansas Secretary of State if applicable, and compliance with anti-terrorist financing regulations under the federal Patriot Act. Only programs that serve residents of Pulaski, Lonoke, and Saline Counties are eligible. The evaluation process is driven by volunteers who review submitted applications and assess alignment with the funder’s priorities. Renewal consideration is based on the success of site visits and submitted program reports. Heart of Arkansas United Way does not typically fund arts and culture programs, sports and recreational activities, environmental projects, capital expenses like construction or renovation, or religious activities that include proselytization. For more information or questions, applicants can contact Mollie Palmer at mpalmer@heartaruw.org or by phone at 501.376.4567. Interested organizations should plan carefully around the published dates and prepare thorough applications that clearly articulate alignment with ALICE-focused outcomes.

Use application preview, budget worksheet, and Foundant portal training videos to prepare; contact program officer for clarification