Apply for 2026-2027 Funds
Every year, we open our grant applications to any 501(c)(3) in the region looking to make an impact for families and children. In 2026-2027, organizations can apply for two funds:
Bridge Fund
One-time investment meeting urgent needs like food, shelter, and transportation.
Catalyst Fund
One-time investment to accelerate promising, innovative strategies for ALICE families.
Applicant Resources & Helpful Links
The 2026-2027 Cycle Timeline
January 12, 2026 – LOI / Pre-Application Opens (via Foundant)
January 30, 2026 – LOI / Pre-Application Closes (by 5:00 PM)
During LOI Process:
UWGC Staff Office Hours (via Zoom)
Tuesdays, January 13th, 20th, & 27th | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
February 6, 2026 – Full Application Opens (via Foundant)
February 27, 2026 – Full Application Closes (by 5:00 PM)
March 2026 – Volunteer Grant Review Begins
April-May 2026 – Review & Recommendations are made
June 2026 – Board of Directors Review and Approve funding recommendations & Award Announcements
Current Funded Partners
Funding decisions are reviewed by a diverse group of 60+ volunteer grant reviewers and a decision committee of 12 local leaders using a data-informed approach. We are honored to support these local nonprofits through the 2025-2026 grant cycle.
United Way of Greater Chattanooga Impact Measurement Framework
Each of our funded partners are required to report on outcomes connected to our shared 2030 Impact Agenda. Find all of our measurement frameworks below!
Impact Cohort
In 2025 we launched our first ever multi-year funding model. Our ‘Impact Cohort’ is a group of 19 funded partners that will be funded from June 2025 – June 2028. With certain outcomes outlined for all of us to accomplish together, we are so excited about what will come of this deep, intentional collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Community Investments applications am I able to apply for in the 2026-27 cycle?
Hamilton County– Bridge, Catalyst
Walker, Dade, Catoosa Counties– Bridge, Catalyst
Marion, Sequatchie Counties– No opportunities at current time
Where do I apply for grants?
Create a login and see the grant application portal here.
If my organization is a part of the Impact Cohort, what can I apply for?
Impact Cohort members can apply for Bridge Funds, but not Catalyst funds.
My organization is not in the Impact Cohort. What am I eligible to apply for?
If you are not in the Impact Cohort you can apply for both Catalyst and Bridge Funds.
How can I tell if my nonprofit is eligible to apply for 2026-27 Community Investments?
Organizations interested in our funding opportunities must meet these 3 minimum requirements:
- Operating 501c3 for 3+ yrs
- In our 6-county footprint
- Currently working or planning work with ALICE populations.
To see full in-depth details of our process and requirements, see our Application Guidelines.
When will I know if I've received funding? When will it be paid out?
Once our Board meets and approves the slate presented by the CI Committee, 2026-27 Community Investments partners will be notified. These organizations will be shared with the public in the beginning of July 2026. Funding is divided and sent via direct deposit over the course of 12 months: July 2026-June 2027.
How can United Way of Greater Chattanooga support my organization beyond the dollar?
This is what our Nonprofit Support programing is all about – we offer training and resources for capacity building and innovation. Check out our Nonprofit Support page and join our monthly newsletter to stay in the know. In addition, you can post volunteer opportunities at ihelpchattanooga.org, as well as participate in Day of Caring, list job opportunities on our Nonprofit Support Job Board, or register for an ALICE @ Work Cohort to learn more about how you can better support employees facing financial hardship. For specific questions about programming or services, email [email protected]
I want to learn more about the ‘why’ behind United Way’s Community Investments focus. Where can I start?
We take a focused approach to co-create both immediate and long-term impact for ALICE families and children. Over the past two years, we’ve prioritized funding partners in the 2-Generation space who address the needs of the whole family – both caregivers and children.
If you are interested in learning more about an ALICE & 2Gen focus, we have an upcoming 2-Gen webinar that we will link out. You can also see our 2030 Impact Agenda!
Contact Us
Questions? We’re here for you! Please email our Community Investments team at [email protected].