2027 Community Impact Funding Process For Priority Areas: Economic Mobility and Education
We have made significant improvements to our 2027 Community Impact Funding Process. After listening to nonprofit partners and reviewing our funding practices, we have redesigned the process to be more efficient, more transparent, and less time-consuming.
At United Way of the Lowcountry, our mission is to create opportunities for self-sufficiency throughout our service area. As part of this commitment, all programs seeking Community Impact funding must be able to demonstrate how their services contribute to increasing self-sufficiency for the individuals, families, and communities they serve. This focus will be reflected throughout the application and Results-Based Accountability (RBA) process.
With fixed grant awards, a shorter application, and a simplified reporting structure, organizations can spend less time navigating the application process and more time focusing on the important work they do every day.
New for 2027
Fixed Grant Awards
All Community Impact grants will be awarded at a fixed amount of $25,000. This change creates greater clarity and consistency throughout the funding process and allows applicants to focus on demonstrating impact rather than determining funding levels.
Shorter, Streamlined Application
Because grant awards are fixed at $25,000, we no longer require the extensive level of information previously needed. The application has been significantly shortened to match the grant amount and reduce administrative burden for applicants.
Results-Based Accountability (RBA) Measures
We are transitioning from traditional outcome reporting to Results-Based Accountability (RBA) measures. RBA focuses on clearly demonstrating how programs contribute to meaningful change within the community while maintaining a practical and user-friendly reporting framework.
Virtual Site Visits
Site visits will now be conducted via Zoom rather than in-person visits.
This change reduces scheduling challenges, minimizes disruption to agency operations, and creates a more efficient experience for both applicants and reviewers.
One Grant Per Priority Area
Organizations may now submit one application per priority area.
Applicants will no longer be permitted to submit multiple grant requests within the same priority area. This change helps ensure greater equity and consistency across the funding process.
Support Available Without Mandatory Training
Mandatory training has been eliminated. Support remains available. Organizations may still request assistance from United Way staff, including:
- Application guidance
- Questions regarding eligibility
- Review and feedback opportunities before submission
- Technical assistance during the application process
We are committed to being a partner throughout the process.
Why We Made These Changes
Our goals are simple: Reduce administrative burden. Increase access. Focus on impact.
By simplifying requirements and creating a more streamlined process, we hope to make funding opportunities more accessible while allowing nonprofit organizations to dedicate more time to serving our community.
2027 Funding Timeline
|
August 1, 2026 |
CI Process information populates on UWLC website |
|
September 1, 2026 |
Application opens on UWLC website |
|
September 30, 2026 |
DEADLINE - Application closes at 3 p.m. |
|
October 26-28, 2026 |
Virtual Agency meetings with reviewers to address unanswered questions |
|
November 17, 2026 |
CI recommendations go before the BOD for a VOTE |
|
December 1-4, 2026 |
Decision emails/GMOAs go out to agencies |
|
December 18, 2026 |
DEADLINE for Signed GMOAs to be returned to UW |
|
January 1, 2027 |
NEW CI checks can be cut and mailed |
How to Apply for a United Way Grant
Step 1: Review Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, organizations should carefully review the funding priorities, eligibility criteria, and required documentation to determine if their program aligns with United Way’s current funding opportunities. Application checklist
Step 2: Access CommunityForce and Complete the Application
Eligible applicants will log into the CommunityForce grant portal to complete and submit their grant application, upload required documents, and enter program information, results based accountability measures (RBA’s), and budget details. Application link
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications must be formally submitted through CommunityForce by the published deadline of September 30, 2026. Incomplete or unsubmitted applications will not be considered for funding.
For questions or to request application assistance, please contact United Way at (843) 379-3063 or email aboswell@uwlowcountry.org