Catawba County United Way Grant Program

The Catawba County United Way (CCUW) Main RFP Grant Cycle represents a significant annual funding opportunity for local nonprofit and public agencies in Catawba County, North Carolina. The program is structured to address the most urgent needs of the community, with a focus on individuals and families experiencing crisis. Funding is directed toward initiatives that support youth development, access to housing and emergency shelter, and healthcare or nutrition-related services. This targeted approach reflects CCUW’s overarching mission to promote social well-being and stability through local investment. Each year, CCUW launches a large-scale Request for Funding (RFP) process designed to engage eligible organizations serving Catawba County residents. For the 2026 cycle, the application portal opened on February 16 and will remain available through midnight on March 23. A virtual informational session for interested agencies was held on February 4 to provide an overview of the process and expectations. The grant cycle is open to agencies seeking at least $10,000 in support, ensuring funded programs are of sufficient scale and impact. Eligible applicants must meet several administrative and governance standards. This includes having a volunteer board of directors that meets at least quarterly, maintaining a formal nondiscrimination policy, and being operated by an active and responsible governing body that adheres to a locally adopted code of ethics. Documentation requirements are extensive and include submission of 501(c)(3) status verification, the latest IRS Form 990, audit reports, solicitation license, and detailed agency and program budgets. Agencies are also required to submit mid-year and end-of-year reports, demographic data, and outcome measurements for funded programs. Following the close of applications on March 23, selected applicants will be notified during the second week of April if they are advancing to the next stage, which includes in-person presentations at the CCUW offices on May 12 and 13. Funding decisions are expected by mid-June. Final award amounts will depend on funds raised through CCUW’s ongoing development efforts, underscoring the importance of community support in sustaining this grant program. The RFP process is designed not only to allocate funds but also to foster transparency and accountability among participating agencies. The requirement for regular reporting and outcome tracking ensures that supported programs maintain measurable impact throughout the funding period. CCUW’s comprehensive vetting and selection process promotes high standards and strategic alignment with local needs, encouraging organizations to adopt best practices in governance and program delivery. Prospective applicants or those seeking clarification are encouraged to contact John Bailey at CCUW by phone at 828-327-6851 or via email at jbailey@ccunitedway.com. This consistent point of contact provides accessible support throughout the application process. Organizations that meet the eligibility and documentation criteria and align with CCUW's mission are strongly encouraged to apply during the designated window, as this annual opportunity plays a vital role in shaping social service delivery across the county.

Applicants should ensure ethical standards, governance documentation, and complete financial transparency.