Big Ideas. Bold Solutions. Funding for Change.
Grant Slam is a live fundraising and grant competition that highlights innovative nonprofit solutions supporting ALICE households in Douglas County. Local nonprofits will take the stage at this Shark Tank-style event to convince our judges and attendees to invest United Way grant dollars in their approaches. Grant Slam harnesses the innovative spirit of Lawrence and our surrounding communities to create, fund and expand solutions that align with United Way's impact areas and the Douglas County Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP).
Grant Slam brings together nonprofits, community leaders, businesses, donors, and residents to invest in solutions that strengthen our community. Grant Slam culminates October 21 at Maceli’s when the following four finalists will pitch their ideas to a panel of local judges and community supporters. Click on each finalist below to find out more about them.
Why Grant Slam Matters
While many of us realize that 16% of our Douglas County neighbors actually live below the federal poverty line, another 20% live in the margin above the official line but still are just one emergency away from financial catastrophe. Known as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), these households face frequent challenges related to housing, childcare, transportation, food security, healthcare, and financial stability. Grant Slam seeks innovative solutions that help families move beyond crisis and build long-term stability.
5:30 PM Wednesday, October 21, 2026
1031 New Hampshire Street, Lawrence, KS
Become a Sponsor
When you sponsor Grant Slam, you're investing in more than an event—you're investing in innovative solutions that help families build lasting stability and move Douglas County closer to our BOLD Goal of reducing ALICE and poverty by 5% over the next five years.
Your sponsorship helps identify, elevate, and fund nonprofit programs that address the root causes of financial instability through creative, upstream solutions. Together, we're empowering organizations to think boldly, collaborate strategically, and create meaningful, measurable impact for our community.
As a Grant Slam sponsor, you'll receive valuable recognition before, during, and after the event while demonstrating your commitment to strengthening Douglas County. Most importantly, your investment helps turn bold ideas into real solutions for local families.
Join us in creating lasting change—because when innovative ideas have the resources to grow, our entire community benefits.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jarrod Guth at (785) 228-5128 or email.
