United Way of Greenville County announced today it will release a new Request for Proposals (RFP) focused on addressing the persistent issue of poverty in Greenville County.

The release of the RFP on Monday, May 1, will officially open United Way’s competitive grant application process for its next three-year funding cycle. That cycle will see United Way invest a total of up to $9 million beginning in January 2024 and continuing through 2026.

The release of the RFP follows the December approval by United Way’s Board of Directors of “How We Win,” a new, seven-year plan that outlines the organization’s strategy to fight poverty by eliminating the four strongest barriers to higher earnings for individuals and families in Greenville County: housing, childcare, education and transportation.

“As we begin our second century of service, the most urgent need facing Greenville County today is fighting the persistence of poverty,” said United Way President and CEO Meghan Barp. “This Request for Proposals represents a bold new vision for our work in Greenville County: To reduce barriers to higher earnings for low-income community members, we must increase access to affordable housing; high-quality, affordable childcare; postsecondary education and industry certifications; and transportation.”

The new process also promises larger, more meaningful grants for organizations that strongly align with the strategy. Through an open and competitive process, United Way will award grant investments ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 to successful applicants.

All 501(c)(3) organizations that align with United Way’s investment strategy and meet specific criteria are invited to apply. Applicant proposals are due by Thursday, June 1, 2023, at 5 p.m. and will be reviewed by expert volunteers in our community.

Applicants will be notified of funding decisions beginning Sept. 1, after recommendations are approved by United Way’s Board of Directors.

Funding for United Way’s current roster of partners will continue through Dec. 31, 2023. Additional information about the application process and United Way’s investment strategy can be found at unitedwaygc.org/rfp.