The United Way of Central Maryland's 2025 Neighborhood Grant offers funding to small, neighborhood-centered organizations with annual operating budgets of $500,000 or less. The grant provides between $2,500 and $10,000 to support community-driven projects that create local impact. Eligible organizations can propose initiatives that focus on three main areas: Inspiring Community Connections, Empowering Local Leaders, and Building Vibrant Neighborhoods. This program aims to strengthen communities by fostering social connections, developing leadership, and enhancing public spaces.

Projects must be resident-driven, addressing community needs or building on local strengths. Examples of eligible activities include community planning, leadership training, creating public spaces like community gardens, or organizing local events that bring residents together. The grant period runs from January 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025, and applications are due by November 4, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. EST. United Way encourages applicants to attend an informational session on October 14, 2024, and to submit their proposals through the online portal, CommunityForce.

Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or organizations using a fiscal sponsor. United Way also accepts applications from organizations that do not have nonprofit status, as long as they work with a fiscal agent. Additional documentation is required to demonstrate eligibility, including financial statements, an IRS determination letter, and a Certificate of Good Standing from the Maryland Department of Assessments & Taxation. Organizations that have received funding for two consecutive years are ineligible to apply for a third year.

Proposals will be evaluated based on how well they engage residents, address community needs, and promise a positive impact on the neighborhood. Priority may be given to organizations led by Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC). Though not mandatory, applicants are encouraged to submit a short video (up to 90 seconds) to help reviewers better understand the community and project.

The selection process will be guided by the Region United Network (RUN) Advisory Boards, which include local leaders from public agencies, nonprofits, and businesses. Successful applicants will be notified in mid-December 2024, and funding will support project implementation throughout 2025. This grant provides a crucial opportunity for small, local organizations to strengthen their communities through grassroots projects aimed at improving neighborhood life.