The United Way of the Ohio Valley (UWOV) is increasing its Impact Funding allocation in 2026, offering more dollars and larger awards to support nonprofits working to reduce poverty in the region.
UWOV will distribute $180,000 in Impact grants, up from $140,000 in 2025, to organizations that focus on affordable housing, homelessness, and financial stability. The funding is available to nonprofits serving Daviess, Hancock, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster counties.
In addition, the maximum grant size has been raised from $20,000 to $30,000 per agency. The grants are available to nonprofits that are not current UWOV Legacy partners.
“Reducing poverty takes collaboration and innovative solutions,” said Vikki Embry, UWOV Director of Community Impact and Investment. “By increasing both the total pool of funds and the maximum grant size, we hope to strengthen the ability of nonprofits to meet critical needs in our community.”
Eligible nonprofits must be IRS-recognized 501(c) charitable organizations and align with at least one of UWOV’s focus areas. Interested agencies should first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) through UWOV’s Jotform platform at this link.
The deadline to submit LOIs is September 26. Submissions will be reviewed and scored, with selected organizations invited to move forward in the grant application process. A volunteer Community Investment Panel will make the final determinations.
Community members and businesses can support the effort by donating online at uwov.org. Companies interested in hosting an employee pledge campaign can contact Savannah Gatton, Director of Resource Development, at 270-684-0668 ext. 28.
