Funding Application Process

Berkshire United Way's funding application process is open

We have launched our grant application process and timeline. Both new and current organizations are invited to apply, provided you meet eligibility criteria and support specific impact areas as outlined for the two-year grant period, July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027. We will continue to offer general operating support funding that can be used to strengthen the health and sustainability of your organization.

After extensive community engagement and a thorough analysis of local and statewide data, three updated priority areas have been identified:   

• Household Stability/Financial Mobility: Families and individuals increase their financial mobility. 
• Early Childhood and Youth Development: Berkshire children and youth are prepared for success in school and career. 
• Mental Health: Berkshire residents are supported in building and strengthening their quality of life.  

We ask applicants to demonstrate and submit impact data around one of these three priority areas. Applicants must select from a list of our performance measures (more than one may be selected) and commit to achieving specific goals aligned with their chosen areas. Performance measures must align with our priorities. 

To support nonprofits throughout the application process, we will host three virtual sessions to provide an overview of the application and review process (see registration links below). Additionally, applicants will have the opportunity to submit a draft application to our Community Impact team to receive constructive feedback before final submission. Please note: feedback does not guarantee funding. The maximum grant request is $80,000.

The generosity of individuals and businesses makes it possible for Berkshire United Way to invest these funds in organizations that make lasting positive change in our community. The total amount of funding available is subject to our annual campaign.

For application or e-CImpact assistance, contact Chloe Rychcik, Data Analytics and Training Manager, at crychcik@berkshireunitedway.org. For additional questions, contact Katherine von Haefen, Director of Community Impact, at kvonhaefen@berkshireunitedway.org.

Volunteer to review funding applications

Community volunteers play a vital role in reviewing and evaluating applications. Our community-driven funding process relies on the support of our dedicated volunteers.

The volunteer commitment for our 2025-2027 funding cycle will span March through May and includes a training session (based on your schedule), individual evaluation of assigned applications, and participation in a few group meetings to discuss and finalize recommendations for our Community Investment Committee. Input from our volunteers is crucial in guiding our funding decisions and making a lasting impact on the community. Volunteers can expect to commit up to 25 hours to the process.

Applicants will be asked to select performance measures that align with the following outcomes: 

• Berkshire children and youth are prepared for success in school and career. 
• Families and individuals increase their financial mobility. 
• Berkshire residents are supported in building and strengthening their quality of life.

After you sign up, you will receive information about signing up for one of the three training sessions, March 11, 18 or 26.