United Way of Central Oklahoma's WayFinder Innovation Grant
The WayFinder Innovation Grant is a funding opportunity that the United Way of Central Oklahoma (UWCO) offers annually to any 501(c)3 nonprofits in central Oklahoma. Nonprofit agencies that are eligible to apply include those that offer health and human services programs, are audited annually, and are located in the UWCO service area. This grant opportunity is for one-time funding up to $250,000 towards an innovative program idea that does not already exist in central Oklahoma. (More extensive grant criteria can be found on our website.) Dollars awarded must be spent within the grant period of October 1 though September 30, and the grantee organization is required to publicize their new program as the winner of the WayFinder Innovation Grant from UWCO. Before 2022, UWCO had awarded 10 grant winners since 2019 who successfully launched their new program ideas across central Oklahoma. Our WayFinder grant opportunity is not only limited to our Partner Agencies. Any 501(c)3 in central Oklahoma is encouraged to submit their ideas! We are honored with this opportunity to further support our community, and bring creative approaches to the forefront for the betterment of our community.
Our 2022 WayFinder grant winners are:
Pivot, Inc. for $125,000 towards their idea, Preserves by Pivot. Funding for this program will provide first-time jobs for Pivot youth to learn important business skills by developing and marketing Pivot Preserves – an artisanal jam product that will be specially made at Pivot.
The Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice (OCCJ) with $32,000 towards their Youth Leadership Forum for Community Transformation. This three-day workshop will offer an opportunity for high school students from the Oklahoma City Metro area to discuss and learn how to process difficult topics, developing their awareness and skills to lead in a diverse society.
Calm Waters Center for Children and Families was awarded $75,000 for Incarcerated Oklahomans Grief Support Group. Funding for this program will establish support group curriculum for detainees at the Oklahoma County Jail to provide an opportunity for them to process their grief and care for their mental wellbeing.
