United Way of Greater Nashville’s bi-annual Community Impact Funding (CIF) process is fast approaching, beginning on October 1, 2024 and closing on October 25, 2024. This is a crucial opportunity for local nonprofit agencies to apply for funding that will help them make a deep impact in our community.
We are committed to supporting agencies that deliver essential services and measurable outcomes. In this blog, we’ll outline how the CIF process works and answer some of the most common questions we receive from nonprofits, community members, and donors alike.
What is a Partner Agency?
A United Way partner agency is a nonprofit organization that aligns with our mission and goals, providing critical services that support individuals and families in our region. These agencies help people thrive by supporting education, financial stability, health, and basic needs—areas that empower individuals and families and strengthen our community.
Partner agencies also serve one or more of the nine counties we support: Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Hickman, Houston, Montgomery, Robertson, Stewart, and Williamson counties. Agencies participate in a thorough vetting process, ensuring they are financially stable and operationally sound.
The Community Impact Funding Process
So how does it work? Our funding process is designed to be effective and transparent. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
Agency Eligibility Requirements:
-
- Have a significant local presence and serve one or more counties in our footprint.
- Focus on delivering programs that align with our mission.
- Hold an active 501(c) status from the IRS, established before April 1, 2022.
- Serve individuals or families whose household income falls within low-to-moderate levels.
- Maintain an updated profile on GivingMatters.com and complete the Agency Eligibility Review (AER) process.
- Update and maintain a 211 helpline profile, ensuring the community can easily access the services provided by the agency.
*Learn more about becoming a partner agency.*
Once the application window closes on October 25, a dedicated team of volunteers—community members just like you!—review each agency’s financial health, effectiveness, and alignment with our mission. Volunteers do more than just read grant applications—they engage directly with nonprofit leaders and participate in sites visits, getting a first-hand understanding of how agencies are impacting the community. After this detailed review, volunteers meet collectively to make investment recommendations to United Way’s board of directors, who provide final approval. Then, contracts are initiated and funds are distributed to partners.
Partner agencies are supported throughout a grant cycle with networking, collaborating with other nonprofits, technical assistance, and so much more to ensure their success in delivering impactful outcomes.
Get Involved: Volunteer with the Community Impact Team
Our work wouldn’t be possible without the support of dedicated community volunteers. As a volunteer, you’ll have the unique opportunity to be directly involved in the grant review and decision-making process. It’s a powerful way to give back to your community and ensure that local nonprofits continue to thrive.
Get started.
Together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant Greater Nashville—one where everyone has a chance at a brighter future.
Check out our currently funded partners.