Tulsa Area United Way opens grant program to fund innovative nonprofit ideas

Nonprofits looking to test bold new ideas now have an opportunity to receive funding from the Tulsa Area United Way.

The organization has officially opened its annual social innovation grant application process, with five grants available for local nonprofits. The initiative is designed to help organizations pilot innovative programs that address community needs or improve existing services.

Supporting Innovation in Tulsa’s Nonprofit Sector

Diane Eason Contreras, TAUW’s community initiatives director, said the goal is to make the process as accessible as possible for local groups.

“We really want to make sure that this is an accessible opportunity,” she said. “These funds are really uniquely positioned to help support organizations advance their work and better serve communities.”

One Grant Helped Transfer Students Stay on Track

The Tulsa Higher Education Consortium is a 2024 grant recipient. The group used the funding to launch a program called Transfer Touch Points, which is designed to help college students transfer smoothly between institutions and stay on track to graduate.

Executive Director Laura Latta said the experience was both supportive and transformative.

“We’ve maintained our connection with the Tulsa Area United Way throughout the term of our grant,” Latta said. “For nonprofits that maybe don’t have large teams or large staff, it is such a meaningful and very supportive experience.”

What This Year’s Grant Offers

Along with funding, recipients will have the opportunity to present their ideas and outcomes to the public. The United Way hopes this transparency not only highlights impact but also encourages community support.

The application deadline is July 31, and five organizations will be selected for this round.

Interested nonprofits can apply now through the Tulsa Area United Way's website.