WVFF Issues Request for Applications for $9.87 Million Community Catalyst Grant (CCG)

WEST VIRGINIA (May 13, 2026) – The West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) has announced the release of a Request for Applications (RFA) for its Community Catalyst Grant (CCG), a $9.87 million, three-year investment designed to reduce substance use, strengthen public safety responses, and improve rehabilitation and prevention systems across the state. In recognition of National Prevention Week, WVFF is launching the RFA this week, with applications opening at midnight on June 1, 2026, and closing at 12:00 p.m. (noon) ET on June 30, 2026.

The Community Catalyst Grant represents WVFF’s continued evolution toward outcomes-driven funding. This cycle is structured to support programs that deliver measurable results over time, with clear performance expectations established at the outset. Funding is contingent upon grantees meeting yearly performance expectations.

“This is about investing in what works and holding ourselves accountable to results,” said Jonathan Board, Executive Director of WVFF. “The Community Catalyst Grant is designed to support the organizations and people doing the hard work of helping communities heal, recover, and build stronger futures. We are focused on measurable outcomes that lead to real, lasting change across our state.”

Jon Dower, Chairman of the WVFF Grants Committee, added: “This grant cycle is intentionally structured to support programs that can demonstrate progress and support communities for more than a single year. By setting clear expectations upfront and tying continued funding to performance, we are creating a model that prioritizes accountability, consistency, and meaningful outcomes for communities across West Virginia. As a Board, we understand that meaningful impact is not an overnight process, and we recognize now more than ever that consistency, support for our communities, and outcomes matter.”

The Community Catalyst Grant builds on previous funding cycles by introducing a more standardized, performance-based model. WVFF has defined outcomes, measures, and expectations upfront to ensure consistency across projects and strengthen long-term impact.

The performance framework is structured across all three years:

• Year 1: Baseline development and system implementation
• Year 2: Demonstrated improvement
• Year 3: Sustained and increased improvement

All awardees will be required to maintain consistent data collection, reporting, and documentation to support transparency and accountability. The RFA outlines detailed eligibility criteria, program requirements, and performance expectations. Organizations are strongly encouraged to review all materials carefully prior to applying.

The full RFA, application materials, and additional resources can be found at wvfirst.org/CCG. Final funding decisions and applicant notifications are expected in December 2026.

CCG TARGET AREAS