Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and serve full-time as the Executive Director, President, or CEO of a US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in good standing.

What criteria do you use to evaluate organizations?

We look at four things: nonprofit status, mission and program alignment, program impact, and scalability.

Your organization must be a US-based 501(c)(3) in good standing, and your mission and programming should address the Crisis of Community — the growing disconnection and disaffiliation at the root of many societal challenges. We also look for organizations that directly serve at least 500 people (or a meaningful proportion of their community) and have at least one proven intervention backed by a year of positive impact data. Finally, your model should be replicable and ready to scale.

What kind of organization is a good fit for UpTide?

UpTide is for nonprofit organizations dedicated to addressing the Crisis of Community —the growing disconnection and disaffiliation at the root of many societal challenges. We welcome a broad range of organizations working to strengthen human connection, whether through in-person programs, technology, or other innovative approaches. The key requirement is that community-building must be the central focus, not a secondary outcome.

My organization is fiscally sponsored by another nonprofit and doesn't hold its own 501(c)(3) determination letter. Am I eligible to apply?

At this time, we're not able to accept fiscally sponsored organizations. To be eligible for UpTide, your organization must hold its own independent 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Who will be leading the sessions? How will I be matched with my executive coach?

Each session will be led by experts in the topic. We will work directly with each cohort member to identify their specific executive coaching needs and match them with a coach that is best suited to support them.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. Organizations chosen for UpTide will receive an unrestricted $5000 grant upon completion of the program. Cohort members will also have a chance to receive additional grant funding during Showcase Day.

What days and times will the cohort sessions happen?

See the Time Commitment section.

What if I can’t make all of the sessions?

While we understand that life happens, we ask applicants to only accept a cohort spot if they are confident that they can attend all sessions. In order to receive the $5000 unrestricted grant, you must attend all sessions, including NYC Week and the Showcase Day.

How many people will be chosen for this cohort?

Five members will be selected for this cohort.

Who will be in the audience at the Showcase?

The Showcase will take place on one of 92NY’s historic stages. In the audience will be representatives of various foundations, members of 92NY’s Board and broader community, members of the Belfer Center Advisory Committee, as well as members of the public. Additionally, the Showcase will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in-person – we hope the cohort members invite their communities to participate in the celebratory event!