Grant guidelines

Webster is dedicated to being a caring and committed member of the communities we serve. We help to strengthen these communities through grants and corporate sponsorships. Please review our program areas, eligibility and list of ineligible activities prior to submitting a grant proposal.

Program Areas

Body (Limited)

Our grantmaking priorities are focused on registered nonprofit agencies that support underserved communities and address racial equity and economic inclusion.

We fund organizations whose primary mission and programming address one of these four pillars:

  • Workforce Development: Promote job creation, strengthen small business development and provide career skills for underserved populations.
  • Community Development: Support creation of affordable housing, including home ownership counseling, foreclosure prevention, first-time homebuyer support and credit remediation.
  • Financial Empowerment: Build personal responsibility for economic self-reliance with a focus on education for youth and aging populations.
  • Human Services and Basic Needs: Strengthen our communities by building self-sufficiency, addressing food insecurity primarily through larger regional food banks, and promoting well-being.

Eligibility

To be considered for a grant from Webster, organizations must meet the following minimum eligibility requirements:

  • Grant requests must fit at least one of the four program areas and align with strategic priorities
  • Applicants must be from registered 501(c)3 non-profit organizations that serve low- to moderate-income individuals and families
  • Organizations must operate and serve communities within Webster's footprint
  • Use of funds must NOT be on Webster's corporate list of ineligible activities
  • An organization and program must be in operation for a minimum of 2 years and be able to show a history of success

We give greater consideration to organizations that incorporate evaluation measures to ensure positive results.

We strive to support as many organizations as we can, but due to the increasing needs of our communities, we are unable to provide funding for each request submitted.

Submitting a grant application

Webster's Philanthropy program accepts online applications only. Prior to proceeding with the online grant application, you will be directed to our eligibility quiz. Grants do not renew year over year and must be applied for annually.