At United Way of Anchorage, we believe the best ideas don’t live in one building or one boardroom. The best ideas live in our community. Since 1956, generous Alaskans and local businesses have trusted us with their dollars. We’ve turned that trust into flexible funding that helps nonprofits test new ideas, respond quickly, and benefit more Alaskans. Taking all that we’ve learned and been entrusted with, we develop a new grantmaking strategy.
That’s why we’re rolling out our United Fund. It’s designed to:
- Accelerate change through community-wide improvements.
- Connect people to the nonprofits that they need.
- Build capacity so that programs can grow their reach and services.
- Strengthen impact by backing scalable, focused solutions.
By updating our strategic investment funding model and rolling out a new grantmaking strategy, we’re evolving with what our community needs. Now, we’re offering grants up to $15,000. Nonprofits registered in Alaska as 501c(3) public charities that serve people who live in Anchorage can apply. Funding supports short-term projects in our three impact areas:
These impact areas show up in the everyday lives of Alaskans. Financial Security can mean families staying in stable housing or workers gaining skills for better jobs. Health Community can look like easier access to quality, affordable care and stronger support during medical crises. Youth Opportunity can help young Alaskans have safe spaces to learn, grow, and discover what’s possible. We’re excited about project that:
- Respond to urgent Anchorage needs.
- Pilot or rapidly test innovative solutions.
- Further cross-agency collaboration.
- Expand or enhance existing programs.
Our United Fund is accepting applications from Nov. 17, 2025 until 11:59 p.m. Jan. 9, 2026. Reviews will be completed by Feb. 6, and we will issue funding agreements between Feb. 9 and 20. We will announce grant recipients and disburse funds on Feb. 23. If you’re not ready to apply in this round, don’t worry! We have another round of grant funding opening on April 6, 2026, with applications due by 11:59 p.m. May 8.
Are you a donor, partner, or community member who moves ideas from buildings and boardrooms into our community? Then, our United Fund is something you’ll want to get involved with. Consider applying, spreading the word, or donating to United Way today!