United Way of the Mid-South Invites Proposals for the UWMS Equity Fund
The UWMS Equity Fund seeks to invest in grass-roots, community identified interventions and strategies to improve neighborhoods by addressing root causes of racial inequity.
Root causes of Racial Inequity and Economic Inequity are defined as factors that decisively determine equality-of-life outcomes in Memphis neighborhoods. The intersection of both has profound impact on the well-being of residents, which are predominantly people of color.
This innovative funding opportunity will support the Equity Indicators below:
- Economic Development
- Strengthening Community Engagement & Leadership
- Affordable, Safe Quality Housing and Home Ownership
- Community and Public Safety
- Access to Healthy Eating/Active Living Opportunities
Applicants should submit proposals informed by local context and research, and that correspond to one or more of the identified Equity Indicators above.Â
Applicant Requirements
- Applicant or Applicant’s Fiscal Agent must be a nonprofit 501c3 organization applying on behalf of the residents of a Defined Service Area, a neighborhood with specific geographic boundaries in Memphis, TN.
- Residents of the Defined Service Area must be majority people of color, or a subpopulation to be served by the Project, must be residents who are people of color.
- A minimum of 30% of households in the service area will be deemed as low income; defined as a household income of up to $25,000. Applicant Organization should have experience in community engagement. The project must include engagement of area residents.
- Proposed funded activities must be clearly documented as a need or opportunity identified by residents of the area to be served.
Funding Amount & Requirements
Funded partners will receive a one-time grant commitment with an award range of $5,000-$20,000. Maximum grant period will be 18 months.
Grant Round Application Process
Access to an on-line application may be requested by completing the Equity Fund Interest Form. Applicants will be notified when the next funding round begins and those that meet requirements will be invited to apply.
Details of application availability, grant application training and grant due dates will be posted here when available.