United Way Funding

UNITED WAY FUNDING

Before Applying, Please Read Application Information & Instructions

FUNDING APPLICATION

We offer a variety of funding mechanisms to non-profits in the Southeast Iowa Area that focus on the building blocks of opportunity: education, income, and health. Applicant agencies must have been operational for two years before applying for United Way funding support.

FY 2026 LETTERS OF INTENT - OPEN FEB 1, DUE APRIL 1, 2025

For questions, you can call our office at 319-752-7831 or email office@unitedwayseia.or

FUNDING TIMELINE

April 1, 2025 – Letters of Intent Due
May 1, 2025 – Invitations to Apply Go Out
August 1, 2025 – Applications Due
- Applications are Reviewed by Panels & Additional Questions Sent (If Necessary)
September/November 2025 – Allocation Panel Presentations
January 2026 – Notification of Approved Funding Amounts
April 1, 2026 – Payments of Approved Funding Amounts Begin
- Letters of Intent for FY 2027 Due

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To be considered for funding from United Way of Southeast Iowa for the 2026 Fiscal Year, organizations must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Substantial Local Presence & Programming
- Must have a substantial local presence and programming within the geographic area covered by the UWSEIA service and campaign footprint. This area includes the following zip codes: 52630, 52641, 52642, 52649, 52601, 52623, 52637, 52638, 52640, 52645, 52646, 52650, 52655, 52660, 52620, 52631, 52644, 52651, 52653, & 52659.
IRS Tax-Exempt Status
- Be recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and have a registered constitution and/or bylaws.
Demonstration of Community Programming
- Be able to demonstrate and document community programming and activities conducted during the 2024 calendar year (January 1 – December 31).
Active & Responsible Governing Board
- Have an active and responsible governing board consisting of three or more members. Board members should have no material conflicts of interest, and a majority of them should serve without compensation. The governing board should effectively direct the organization.
Non-Discrimination Policy
- Have a policy and demonstrate a practice of non-discrimination in the operation of the organization, including service delivery. Non-discrimination should be based on factors such as race, creed, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, physical or mental health, sexual orientation, or any characteristics protected by law.
Mission Alignment
- The United Way focuses on addressing the most pressing needs in our community. These included homelessness and affordable housing, food insecurity, mental health, and child literacy/school readiness.