small Grants available

Organizations seeking funding must be non-profit, 501(c)(3) health and human service organizations providing in-person, direct services. Funding may be requested for existing programs, new programs or initiatives, program expansion and capital items.

Small Grants – Community Impact Grant

2026–2027 Funding Cycle (Wayne & Pike Counties)

United Way Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike is pleased to announce that the grant application process for nonprofit organizations serving Wayne and Pike counties is now officially open for the 2026–2027 funding cycle. Please note that Wayne County and Pike County each have their own separate grant application, and organizations should complete the application for the county they serve.

These annual competitive grant opportunities are available to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide programs or services aligning with United Way’s mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. Applications must adhere with one or the following priority area that address critical needs in the areas of Health Community, Youth Opportunity, and Financial Security-the building blocks for a good quality of life. 

  • Healthy Community: Providing all families and individuals the opportunity to achieve optimal physical and mental health by empowering them with skills development and intervention services.
  • Youth Opportunity: Providing youth and families with access to quality learning experiences that empower them to achieve personal success.
  • Financial Security: Stabilizing families and individuals during times of crisis and empowering them with the skills and knowledge to build long term financial resilience.

“We are committed to investing in programs that deliver measurable impact and real change for all those who call our corner of Pennsylvania home,” said Dr. Angela Bassani, Ed.D., President & CEO, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike. “This grant opportunity reflects our ongoing dedication to creating stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities.”

Grant requests for each application cannot exceed $4,000 

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, organizations must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, or partner with a United Way–approved 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor
  • Maintain bylaws that:
    • State the organization’s purpose
    • Define Board size, selection, and tenure
    • Outline officers, committees, financial and legal procedures, and quorum requirements
  • Maintain compliance with all applicable legal and licensing requirements and carry appropriate insurance coverage
  • Submit a program request that aligns with one of United Way’s three priority areas:
    • Youth Opportunity
    • Healthy Community
    • Financial Security

Application Details

  • Application deadline: August 5, 2026
  • Applications are available to any organization meeting the above criteria.
  • To request an application, please email Stephanie Miller at
    📧 smiller@uwlc.net

Important Grant Guidelines

  • Funding is awarded for one fiscal year only. Receipt of funding does not guarantee renewal in future years.
  • Organizations should not rely on United Way funding as a recurring or ongoing revenue source.
  • While capital items may be considered, programmatic requests that directly impact individuals in the community are strongly preferred.
  • Funding decisions are made by the Lackawanna County Funds Distribution Committee, a group of dedicated community volunteers.
  • All funding recommendations are reviewed and approved by the United Way Board of Directors.
  • Committee members serve as stewards of the community fund, ensuring donations are invested in the most cost-effective way to advance priority needs in Lackawanna County.

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e-Cimpact Sign In

e-CImpact is United Way Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike’s online system for managing our Community Impact process. Through e-CImpact, agencies submit applications for various funding opportunities including annual fund distributions and grants as well as providing reports and accountability documents.

Community volunteers who participate on Community Impact Fund Distribution Committees and other funding review panels also have electronic access to agency and program information to assist in their decision making.

E-CIMPACT LOGIN FOR AGENCY USERS
E-CIMPACT LOGIN FOR VOLUNTEER USERS