Middlesex United Way Announces Community Impact Grant Opportunity!
Middlesex United Way’s Community Impact Grant supports nonprofit organizations implementing programs and initiatives that directly benefit residents of Middlesex County. Through this grant, we invest in work that responds to documented local needs, strengthens community systems, and contributes to measurable, positive outcomes for individuals and families.
The Community Impact Grant is designed to support a wide range of community-based efforts. Applicants are encouraged to clearly articulate how their proposed work is designed for Middlesex County residents and aligns with one or more of Middlesex United Way’s Community Impact Areas.
Applicants must be a 501(c)(3) or have a fiscal sponsor that is a 501(c)(3). Funds are restricted for work serving the communities and constituents of Middlesex County. Middlesex United Way Community Impact Grant funds cannot fund capital expenditures, scholarship programs, or any third party or contract. All grant funds must be spent on the intended purpose. Eligible organizations can apply for $5,000 - $30,000. Applications are reviewed and scored by volunteers and staff.
APPLICATION OPENS:
Friday, January 16, 2026
LAST DAY TO SUBMIT APPLICATION*:
Friday, March 27, 2026
*All applications must be submitted by email to Brian Thompson by the posted deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
All required application materials are available on this page (see clickable links below), including:
- The Community Impact Grant Application (FY 2026–2027)
- The Leadership, Staff & Board Demographics Chart (required for all applicants)
- Additional required materials and submission instructions are outlined directly within the application.
Applicants are encouraged to review the full application carefully before beginning.
Organizations applying for Community Impact Grant funding must:
- Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, or have a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor
- Propose a program or initiative that is specifically designed to serve residents of Middlesex County
- Demonstrate that all grant-funded activities, services, and outcomes will directly benefit Middlesex County residents
- Be in good standing with Middlesex United Way if previously funded
Organizations that operate statewide or in multiple regions are eligible to apply only if the proposed program, activities, and outcomes are clearly defined for Middlesex County and funding is used exclusively to support work serving county residents.
Applications proposing general statewide services without a defined Middlesex County focus will not be considered.
What Our Grant Funding Supports
Community Impact Grant funds are intended to support programmatic work that:
- Serves residents of Middlesex County
- Aligns with one or more Community Impact Areas
- Addresses identified community needs using data and local context
- Contributes to measurable outcomes and ongoing learning
Community Impact Grant funds may not be used for:
- Capital expenditures
- Scholarship programs
- Third-party or pass-through contracts
- Activities or services delivered outside of Middlesex County
Additional eligibility requirements and funding parameters are outlined in the full application.
Applicants must align their proposed program or project with at least one of the following Community Impact Areas. These descriptions are intended to provide guidance, not limitation.
Youth Opportunity
We support a continuum of opportunity that begins in early childhood and extends through adolescence and into adulthood. Our investments focus on high-quality early education, youth development programs, and strong family engagement — building pathways for every young person to thrive from cradle to career.
Healthy Communities
We strengthen the health of our region by expanding access to mental health services, physical healthcare, food, and wellness resources. Our approach is rooted in local partnerships that meet people where they are and address the full spectrum of community well-being.
Financial Security
We work to ensure that individuals and families can meet their basic needs, build wealth, and prepare for the future. Our efforts support workforce development, job training, financial literacy, and access to safe, affordable housing — laying the foundation for long-term economic stability.
Community Resiliency
We bring people and organizations together to address systemic issues, respond to community crises, and strengthen the networks that hold our communities together. This includes supporting inclusive planning, infrastructure, and civic partnerships that allow communities to adapt and thrive.
Equity
Equity is not a separate goal — it is embedded into everything we do. Applicants are expected to consider equitable access, participation, and outcomes across all areas of their work.
If you have questions about the Community Impact Grant or the application process, please contact:
Brian Thompson
Director of Community Impact
brian.thompson@middlesexunitedway.org
860-346-8695 (Ext. 17)