Heart of Maine United Way’s Strategic Investment Grants serve as the primary vehicle for funding  programs that align with our community goals across our 6-county region. These grants, distributed  every three years, play a pivotal role in driving positive changes in the lives of 1 in 3 individuals  across our six-county service area: Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, Waldo, and  Washington Counties. With a commitment to transparency, community involvement, and multi-year  support, these grants empower organizations to address pressing issues, choose shared community  indicators, and contribute to our Opportunity 2028 Bold Goals.

1. Not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, educational institution, or municipality providing health and  human service program in Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, Waldo, or Washington  counties. 
2. Active board of directors (or other legally defined governing body) that meets with a quorum at  least quarterly 
3. Stated mission and bylaws. 
4. Files Form 990 with the Internal Revenue Service annually, if required 
5. Submission of appropriate financial materials.

• Gross receipts of $1,000,000 or more = Annual Audit
• Gross receipts of $50,001-$999,999 = Independent Review of Financial Statements from an  external accountant OR Audit
• Gross receipts of less than $50,000 = Compilation OR Independent Review OR Audit.

Funded partners are required to comply with HoMEUW’s agency agreement which includes stipulations  on reporting, marketing, and supporting the HoMEUW annual campaign. 

The HoMEUW Board of Directors has decided that the following types of programs or funding are not  eligible to receive HoMEUW Strategic Investment Grant funding: 

• Programs that integrate structured religious activity in United Way funded services or condition  receipt of United Way funded services on acceptance of, or participation in, inherently religious  activities. Inherently religious activities include worship, prayer, or instruction. 
• Expenses already incurred 
• Political campaigns 

HoMEUW will support organizations that do not discriminate in services, employment, or volunteer  opportunities based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, or  religion. This policy does not preclude support for programs designed to serve specific populations with  identified needs.