Great Rivers United Way’s Basic Needs Grants mobilize funds to programs and projects that reach people in need of food, shelter, and safety.
Donor Name: Great Rivers United Way
State: Minnesota, Wisconsin
County: Buffalo County (WI), Crawford County (WI), Houston County (MN), Jackson County (WI), La Crosse County (WI), Monroe County (WI), Trempealeau County (WI), Vernon County (WI)
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 09/26/2025
Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000
Grant Duration: 1 Year
Details:
Priorities
These critical services are the foundation upon which people can build stability for themselves and their families. Priority will be given to the following types of programs and projects:
- Collaborative projects –organization’s, programs, or projects that effectively partner with others in the community.
- Proven practices – programs and projects with a demonstrated history of success.
- Promising innovations – programs and projects that approach problems in a new way.
- Equity – BIPOC-led organizations or programs and projects intended to serve BIPOC folks.
- Regional reach – programs and projects that are located in or effectively reach rural communities.
Funding Information
Awards in 2025 ranged from $5,000 to $40,000 with the average being $16,700. Multiple submissions are allowed, however no organization will receive more than $50,000 total from this opportunity. Collaborative projects are eligible to receive up to $50,000 per partner. Awards will be for one year.
Uses of Grants funds
Basic Needs Grant Funds should be used to support programs or projects aimed at meeting people’s needs for food, shelter, and safety. Funds may be used as needed to support these activities. Grants for proven programming, seed money to start a new program, or projects with a specific start and end will be considered for awards. Grantees will be expected to provide data regarding how funds were spent, numbers of people served, and impact of the programming or project.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants will be screened for basic eligibility criteria prior to gaining access to the grant application. The criteria are as follows:
- Currently maintain tax-exempt organization status under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code
- Registered as a charitable organization with the state in which they do business unless exempt from such requirement
- Provide human services within the Great Rivers United Way service area: Buffalo, Crawford, Houston, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Trempealeau, and Vernon counties
- Can demonstrate board oversight and financial responsibility through board minutes, independent audit or financial review, and IRS Form 990
- Provides services aligned with meeting basic needs of food, shelter, and safety
- Has a fiscal sponsor that meets all the above requirements
For more information, visit Great Rivers United Way.
