United Way of Greater Houston Graduates First Cohort of Government Funding Initiative

HOUSTON, TX -- United Way of Greater Houston today announced the graduation of 35 nonprofit leaders and organizations from the inaugural cohort of its Government Funding Initiative. This first-of-its-kind capacity building program in our region was designed to help Houston-area nonprofits successfully compete for and manage public funding. The initiative was launched with an initial $3 million grant from Houston Endowment.

Many nonprofits lack the infrastructure needed to pursue and administer public funding. The Government Funding Initiative was created to close that gap by increasing awareness of public grant opportunities; strengthening organizational capacity to secure and manage government funding; connecting organizations to resources through a Government Grant Hub; fostering peer learning; deploying micro-grant awards; and supporting policy solutions at the state and federal levels that strengthen the nonprofit sector. A dedicated Government Funding Initiative Advisory Committee works alongside United Way’s Nonprofit Connection team to provide expertise and guidance for the initiative.

“Public funding can unlock significant resources for nonprofits, but only if organizations have the systems and support in place to pursue and manage them well,” said Amanda McMillian, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Houston. “Through the Government Funding Initiative, we’re helping organizations build the systems, skills and confidence they need to diversify revenue and expand the services our community depends on.”

As part of this initiative, United Way of Greater Houston has awarded more than $500,000 in consulting support grants to 35th organizations, providing access to expert consultants focused on grant writing, evaluation, compliance and other critical capacity-building needs. These grants were made possible through Houston Endowment’s initial investment in the initiative.

In addition to grantmaking, the initiative has already generated strong interest across the nonprofit sector. To date, more than 1,500 nonprofit leaders and staff have participated in educational sessions. The next series begins in January 2026.

Nonprofits and community-based organizations interested in participating can learn more and register here.

About United Way of Greater Houston
United Way of Greater Houston connects people to possibility. We unite donors, volunteers and community partners in support of a focused plan to remove barriers on the path to financial stability for families and individuals. Programs focused on financial stability, youth opportunity, healthy community, and community resiliency help our neighbors land on their feet and stay there. For families and individuals who are ready, our Integrated Client Journey removes barriers on the path to financial stability. United Way also connects our neighbors to help, hope and critical resources 24/7/365 through the 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE. Our community investments are backed by research, ensured by good stewardship and deliver results. For more information, visit www.unitedwayhouston.org.