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.

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.