The United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes is accepting applications for its Creating Synergy for a Stronger Future Grant, a funding opportunity designed to help nonprofit organizations strengthen their operations and expand their impact across the region.
The one-time grants are intended to help health and human service nonprofits build stronger organizational foundations so they can better serve residents in Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Wayne, and Wyoming counties.
Funding can support a variety of capacity-building projects, including technology and system upgrades, strategic planning, leadership and board development, organizational development, and merger or affiliation initiatives.
Last year, United Way awarded more than $1.06 million to 26 nonprofit organizations through the program. Demand for the grants far exceeded available funding, with 135 organizations requesting more than $9 million, highlighting what United Way says are ongoing challenges facing nonprofit agencies.
“Nonprofits pour everything they have into their missions, often at the expense of the internal systems that keep them strong for the long haul,” said Robert De Leon, vice president of impact at United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. “This grant exists to close that gap and strengthen the entire network of services our community depends on.”
To qualify, applicants must be health and human service nonprofits located in one of the six eligible counties, have received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status by Jan. 1, 2025, and be current with New York State Charities Bureau and IRS filing requirements.
Applications are due by noon on Aug. 13, with funding decisions expected to be announced in November.
Additional eligibility requirements and application materials are available on the United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes website.
