United Way of Central Ohio is now accepting applications for Innovation Catalyst. A limited number of Innovation Catalyst Grants are available! Applications are open for both the Fall (Kickoff Scheduled for October 17, 2023) and Winter (Kickoff Scheduled for March 20, 2024)
Program: To help Central Ohio nonprofit organizations create innovative, impactful and more sustainable initiatives, United Way of Central Ohio is once again partnering with CauseImpact to offer a premier cohort consulting package to a select number of agencies. The Fall Columbus Innovation Catalyst will run from October 17, 2023 and continue to July 2024. The program will conclude with the completion of an agency business plan for a new venture or business model, which will increase mission impact while diversifying revenue. Each participating agency will develop a launch-ready concept and business plan.
The Winter Columbus Innovation Catalyst program will run from March 20, 2024 and continue through October, 2024.
Innovation Catalyst Overview
Innovation Catalyst Grant: Through the generosity of United Way donors, along with critical funding support from AEP Foundation, the Columbus Foundation, and IGS Energy, each participating agency will receive an Innovation Catalyst Grant of $13,125.00, to help fund their participation in the program, and will be responsible for a 1:3 grant match of $4,375.
Innovation Catalyst Funders &
More Information
Eligibility: Any registered nonprofit organization whose primary service area is Central Ohio is invited to apply.
Requirements for Participation: Applicants must:
Submit a completed application.
Be able to provide matching funds of $4,375.00.
Commit to full participation in the Innovation Catalyst program:
Designate this project as a strategic priority.
Build an Impact Team (a description of the Impact Team will be provided as part of the application process. Please see below).
Assign a project leader from the agency’s leadership team.
Participate in group sessions and presentations (schedule TBA).
Develop, over the course of the program, a detailed business plan to launch-ready status.
Executive leaders and at least one board member from each finalist must be available for an online interview. Interviews will be scheduled as finalists are selected.
A launch date will be selected in consultation with the chose organizations.
The business plan development process will conclude with live presentations to the program funders and the community approximately 10 months after the chosen launch date.
Innovation Catalyst
What Participants Say
Applications may be submitted via this form.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Sean McGee at CauseImpact: smcgee@causeimpact.com
