2024 Kalamazoo Micro-Enterprise Grants

Impact 100 NYC is a women-led philanthropic group that awards significant grants to nonprofits proposing innovative or transformative projects that will have a substantial positive impact on the New York City community. Through collective giving, the organization channels individual donations of $1,000 from its members to support high-impact, transformative programs across the five boroughs. Impact 100 NYC connects its members with local nonprofits, empowering women to play an active role in philanthropy while enhancing diversity and inclusion within its own organization. Since its establishment, Impact 100 NYC has granted over $1 million to outstanding local nonprofits, supporting community-focused initiatives that reflect the city’s diverse populations and unique challenges. For the 2025 grant cycle, applications opened on September 30, 2024. Impact 100 NYC seeks proposals for new projects or expansions of existing programs that demonstrate the potential for high impact and community transformation. Ideal applications should outline initiatives capable of creating meaningful, measurable benefits within NYC’s communities. The program welcomes a variety of project types, with examples from 2024 grantees including support for NYC youth aging out of foster care, violence prevention for young people, mentorship for young Latinas, family support for new mothers, and arts education for underserved youth. Grants awarded by Impact 100 NYC are highly competitive, and the selection process includes multiple stages, starting with a Letter of Intent (LOI). Applicants that meet the eligibility criteria will be invited to submit a full proposal, which will be reviewed by a volunteer committee of members with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. This approach ensures that funded projects align with the organization’s commitment to inclusion and community relevance. Members also participate directly in the grant selection process by reviewing proposals and casting votes at the annual selection event, reinforcing the collaborative nature of the Impact 100 NYC mission. In addition to funding, Impact 100 NYC encourages its members and supporters to engage in volunteer opportunities, assist with skills-based needs of its grantee partners, and support in-kind donations. The organization also offers community engagement options, allowing members to further involve themselves in philanthropy by identifying potential grantees or supporting grant management activities. These opportunities provide members with a platform to make a tangible difference in NYC’s communities while also gaining insights into nonprofit operations and social impact work. Impact 100 NYC is a registered 501(c)(3), making donations tax-deductible as allowed by law. Members who contribute $1,000 annually are eligible to participate fully in the organization’s activities, from grant selection to community service. This philanthropic model enables members to maximize the reach of their contributions and participate in shaping impactful projects that address NYC’s pressing social issues. The organization’s commitment to a collective giving model allows each member’s donation to be amplified, supporting projects that yield lasting positive changes. Individuals interested in joining or applying for the grant program should consult Impact 100 NYC’s website for detailed guidelines, application forms, and deadlines. There, prospective grantees can access resources and updates on the grant process, while prospective members can learn about engagement opportunities. Through its collaborative model, Impact 100 NYC aims to foster a strong network of engaged women philanthropists dedicated to improving the quality of life for New York City residents.