New Applicant Investment Process

 The application process is closed for 2025.

The application process for new applicants will open at the beginning of January 2026. To express your interest in applying to become a United Way funded partner and learn more, please contact John Soener, Community Investments Manager, at john.soener@unitedwaydm.org.

Funding Process

STEP 1: Letter of Intent

The first step in applying for United Way funding is to submit a Letter of Intent (LOI). The LOI is a short series of questions within Foundant, United Way's grantmaking system, that helps United Way staff determine if your program might qualify for funding. If they feel you might be eligible, your LOI will be approved, and your program will be invited to complete a full-form application.

By clicking the button below you will see what information will be required on the LOI. This sample is not the official LOI and is subject to change. All LOIs must be completed within Foundant, United Way's grantmaking system. 

Sample Letter of Intent

STEP 2: Funding Application

If your LOI is approved, your organization will be invited to submit a full-form application for funding. You will receive an overview of what is needed to apply, including financial documentation, equity commitments, a program budget, etc. After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by one of the volunteer cabinets (a team of community volunteers who specialize in one of the 5 Elements of a Thriving Community).

STEP 3: Funding Decisions

After reviewing all applications, each volunteer cabinet will make recommendations for funding and submit them to the United Way of Central Iowa Board of Directors, who will review and amend or approve those decisions. The final funding decisions will be disclosed to the applicants on July 1 (the first day of the fiscal year.)