Nonprofit Application

Nonprofits, do you have the next bright idea to advance the common good?

United Way of the Plains is hosting Impact on the Plains and we want YOU to apply!

This social social innovation competition, modeled after the popular TV show “Shark Tank,” transforms how complex social issues are addressed in our focus areas of health, education, financial stability and basic needs. Up to $105,000 in grants will be awarded to four entrepreneurial nonprofit programs.

Here’s how it works:
Last year's Impact on the Plains first place recipient, Culture Creations.
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APPLY

Nonprofits submit applications with their innovative approach to a complex social issue by noon on Friday, Aug. 23.

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REVIEW

Applications will be narrowed down to the top four proposals. Finalists will be announced Tuesday, Sept. 3.

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PITCH

Finalists will make their pitch to the “Shark Tank” panel of community leaders at a live, exclusive event on Thursday, Sept. 12View event details here

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GAME CHANGERS ANNOUNCED

The event will culminate with the judges announcing the winner and runners-up at the conclusion of the event. A special People’s Choice Award will be given to one finalist.

First Place: $40,000

Second Place: $30,000

Third Place: $20,000

Fourth Place: $10,000

Plus, a $5,000 People’s Choice Award will be given to one finalist! 

Group photo of the 2023 Impact on the Plains recipients and judges.

APPLICATION

Thank you for your interest! The 2024 Impact on the Plains application closed at noon on Friday, Aug. 23.
Eligibility Details:
  • Innovative programs that have never received funding from United Way of the Plains and programs that have received an investment of less than $25,000 from United Way of the Plains since August 31, 2023, are invited to apply.
  • Each nonprofit is limited to one program submission for the competition.
  • Proof of 501(c)(3) status required.
  • Program must be located within the United Way of the Plains service area (Sedgwick, Barber, Butler, Cowley, Harper, Harvey, Kingman, Pratt, Reno and Sumner counties).
  • Program must fall within the realm of support by United Way. United Way of the Plains supports social services and health and human service needs. Typically, United Way does not support grants to individuals, art/cultural organizations, animal services, capital needs or environmental concerns.
  • If no awards are made, funding will be invested in the next year.
  • Award money must be utilized by Dec. 31, 2025.

QUESTIONS?

Abel Frederic
Abel FredericVice President of Community Impact
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4211
Logan Bradshaw
Logan BradshawDirector of Community Impact
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4210
Sarah Crick Milligan
Sarah Crick MilliganDirector of Community Impact
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4212
Matt Lowe
Matt LoweDirector of Community Impact
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4233