United Way of Southeast Missouri opens grant applications for 2026–28 funding cycle

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — United Way of Southeast Missouri announced that grant applications will open Feb. 2 for agencies and programs seeking to join its network of funded partners.

Applications for the two-year 2026–28 funding cycle will be accepted through 5 p.m. CST on Feb. 27.

United Way of Southeast Missouri said it will continue to invest in programs — rather than agencies — that demonstrate the greatest impact in four focus areas: youth opportunity, healthy community, community resiliency and income stability. Programs supporting financial empowerment and workforce participation will receive particular emphasis.

“Many hardworking people are doing all the ‘right’ things and still struggling,” said Elizabeth Shelton, executive director of United Way of Southeast Missouri. “We will continue to prioritize programs that help families and individuals move from striving to thriving.”

To be eligible, applicants must be a 501(c)(3) organization, focus on one of the identified impact areas and provide services in at least one of the four counties served by United Way of Southeast Missouri: Cape Girardeau, Bollinger, Perry and northern Scott counties.

Organizations must first complete a preliminary questionnaire. Those meeting eligibility requirements will receive the full grant application within 24 hours of submitting the questionnaire. Additional details and application materials will be available beginning Feb. 2 at UWSEMO Funding – United Way of SEMO.

All submitted applications will undergo a vetting process led by the Community Investment Committee and the United Way of Southeast Missouri Board of Directors. Applications meeting required scores will be invited to present to committee members, board directors and staff.

This year, the organization said the presentation process will be open to the public. Community members may attend presentations March 26 at 4 p.m. at the United Way of Southeast Missouri office, 16 N. Spanish St., in Cape Girardeau.

Final funding recommendations will be submitted to the board for approval. Programs selected for funding will be notified in early May, followed by a public announcement. Funded partners will be required to submit annual outcome reports, participate in partner meetings, share organizational information and promote their affiliation with United Way of Southeast Missouri.

More information is available at Home – United Way of SEMO.