CATALYST

Turning community challenges into solutions that work

Created by United Way of Central Indiana, Catalyst is a 9-week, in-person design lab and pitch event to help mission-driven leaders and social entrepreneurs working to address real community needs. 

Catalyst is built for people who clearly see a problem but need time, tools and peer support to figure out what actually works. During the nine weeks, participants will test their assumptions, refine ideas and build a solution that’s grounded in the real world – before pitching it live to a panel of community judges.   

The result will be a practical solution to a lingering problem with a clear path to greater impact. 

This is not an accelerator or a grant program. It’s a design lab that turns community challenges into solutions that work. 

Click here to apply now. Application deadline has been extended until March 13 at 5pm ET.

Who Should Apply

Catalyst is for nonprofit leaders, social entrepreneurs and changemakers who: 

  • Are driven by a clear community problem or unmet need 

  • Work in or alongside human services nonprofits, agencies or community organizations—or are independent leaders ready to build something new 

  • Are open to testing ideas, learning quickly and adapting 

  • Want to build solutions that are sustainable, not temporary fixes 

The primary requirement for your application is a well-defined problem in our community and a commitment to learn, participate and pitch!  

What Participants Receive

  • Weekly, in-person sessions focused on design, testing and problem-solving 

  • Coaching from experienced practitioners and subject-matter experts 

  • Support building operational and funding models 

  • Peer learning with other mission-driven leaders 

  • A final pitch opportunity for up to five finalists 

A total of $100,000 in awards ($50,000 for first place, $30,000 for second place and $20,000 for third place) will be distributed among top concepts at the conclusion of the Lab. 

Program Details

  • Format: 9-week, in-person program 

  • Timeline: late April–June 

  • Workshop Location: United Way of Central Indiana headquarters

    • 2955 N Meridian St #300, Indianapolis, IN 46208

  • Final Pitch Event: Salesforce Tower on Thursday, June 25 

  • Attendance: In-person participation required 

Why It Matters

With Catalyst, United Way of Central Indiana is investing in learning first – so that good ideas can be tested, adapted and implemented where they are needed most.

Questions? Contact catalyst@uwci.org for more information.