July 30, 2025
The Catawba County United Way’s Small Businesses Love Big (SBLB) grant cycle opens on Aug. 15. 
This United Way allocation process is focused on supporting local, small and start-up nonprofits and their programs.
The SBLB initiative is an opportunity for small companies in Catawba County (50 employees or less) to invest $365 a year towards helping fund local nonprofit outreach.
Criteria for Applying for a Grant:
- Asking for a grant between $2,000 and $5,000.
- The nonprofit and its program being funded is focused on helping Catawba County residents (individuals/families) in one or more of the following impact areas: health, education or income stability.
- Provide proof of 501c3 status.
- Provide impact report after use of funds, including demographics.
- The program seeking funding has not been approved for funds (for 2025/26) from either the CCUW’s Catawba County Youth Council community grant cycle or the CCUW’s Main RFP grant cycle.
SBLB Grant Timeline
- Aug. 15 – SBLB application OPENS on CCUW website.
- Sept. 5 – SBLB applications DUE.
- Sept. 10 – applications reviewed by SBLB representatives.
- Grants will be announced at the end of September.
More information and applications can be found at - https://www.ccunitedway.com/small-businesses-love-big.
You can also call the United Way at 828-327-6851 and ask for John or Mark with any questions.
The Catawba County United Way is focused on building relationships to support the community with collaboration, compassion and purpose.