To support and empower our neighbors striving for a better future, the Social Innovation Fund invests in testing of new ideas, approaches, programs and/or projects with the potential to deliver measurable and scalable impact in our community. United Way looks to accelerate the cycle of innovation in our sector through the testing of promising practices that can improve the efficiency and/or effectiveness of our service delivery and outcomes.  

To attack economic instability at its core, the time is now to be bold in our thinking, strategy, collaborations, and solutions. The Social Innovation Fund establishes an opportunity to capture the best, brightest, and most innovative approaches to combat poverty in our community. Successful Social Innovation projects are those that support equity, and strongly encourage ideas that lead to coalition building and community collaboration/partnership.  

• Any registered 501c3 located in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties is eligible to apply for Social Innovation funding in 2023.  

• Grants are awarded in the range of $25,000 to $125,000 per organization that provides services in alignment with United Way’s focus areas and metrics.  

• Funding commitments will be for one year -- January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024.  

• Funds may be requested for existing programs, new programs or to expand existing programs.  

• While reporting on specific outcomes will be required, funds will be unrestricted and may be used for general operating support.  

• Participation in monthly cohort meetings is part of the funding agreement.