Micro-Investment Grants

Micro-Investment Grants

Geographic Scope: Dane County, Wisconsin

Program Description: Developed nine years ago from community feedback, the Micro-Investments process creates an opportunity for grassroots organizations working to decrease racial disparities to apply for funding outside of United Way's regular investment cycle.

Award Amount:

Individual grants: Up to $5,000

Total annual funding: $25,000 (recent cycles)

Eligibility Criteria:

Annual Operating Budget: $50,000 or less

Focus: Organizations led by leaders of color providing culturally competent community, education and health-focused services

Mission Alignment: Working to advance racial equity and/or social justice for:

- Black individuals and families
- Indigenous individuals and families
- Latinx individuals and families
- Southeast Asian individuals and families
- Individuals and families of color in Dane County

Recent Focus Areas:

2024: Community programs at Harmony at Grandview Commons Apartments (youth activities, resident engagement, sense of safety)

2023: General racial equity and social justice initiatives

Recent Funded Organizations Examples:

Literacy Network

Centro Hispano

Operation Fresh Start

Childhood Hunger Initiative

Power Pack

Backyard Mosaic Women's Project

BLIPS (Black Leaders in Plain Sight)

Cultural Treasure

Miss Grand Hmong's Scholarship

Reimagining Full Spectrum Doula Services

The House Urban Arts Initiative

Dream Camp

Madison Gospel 5K Foundation

More Than a Conqueror

Righteous Voice

Program Approach:
Works to increase relationship building and address systemic inequities facing specific communities in Dane County through collaborative processes guided by community residents.

Contact Information:

Phone: (608) 246-4350

Email: writeus@uwdc.org

Address: 2059 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI 53704