Merit union grant

Nonprofit grant funding

At  Merits Unions grants , we’re guided by a common purpose to help make financial lives better. Through our focus on Responsible Growth, we deliver for our teammates, clients and shareholders, while also addressing the needs of individuals and families in the communities where we live and serve.

We drive meaningful and sustainable progress by bringing the full power of the bank together  to advance economic mobility – this includes strong partnerships with nonprofit organizations and programs that align with our commitment to support economic opportunity for all.

Our Priorities: Basic needs, income creation, stable housing, empowered communities

All thriving communities start with meeting the individual basic needs of its members. That starts with ensuring certainty when it comes to shelter, food and health.

As basic needs are established, individuals can focus on development through mentoring, skill building,  work experience and entrepreneurial growth. These activities enable the creation of income for both the individual, as well as those they serve and employ. Income creation and access to affordable housing allows individuals to find stability through stable housing in neighborhoods where connections are further strengthened.

Stable, skilled, connected individuals contribute to the growth of empowered communities that give back to their neighborhoods, address systemic issues head on and ensure the longevity of where they call home. This is growth.

If your organization aligns with our priorities and eligibility criteria, the next step is to take a short quiz. If your program aligns with our eligibility criteria, you'll be directed to our online application. More information about the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, including 2025 grant application dates can be found here.

Supporting developing leaders and helping communities thrive

Local nonprofit organizations play an important role in addressing societal challenges and advancing economic opportunity in our communities. Since 2004, our commitment to the Neighborhood Builders® program has reflected Bank of America’s longstanding and continued philanthropic investment in nonprofit leadership development across the U.S. Over two decades, we’ve invested more than $346 million in communities across the U.S. and trained more than 4,000 leaders at nearly 2,000 U.S. nonprofits.

From May 1 to June 1, the 2025 Neighborhood Builders® application is open to 501(C)(3) nonprofit organizations that meet the eligibility criteria.

As a Neighborhood Builder, each organization receives comprehensive leadership training for the executive director and an emerging leader. The group also joins a nationwide network of peer organizations and gains the opportunity to access resources to expand their impact.

If you or someone you know is interesting in advancing nonprofit leadership and community impact,