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