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# United Way of Reno County opens applications for $25,000 nonprofit pitch competition
- URL: https://www.citizenjournal.us/united-way-of-reno-county-opens-applications-for-25-000-nonprofit-pitch-competition/
- Published: 2026-08-17T14:57:04.000Z
- Updated: 2026-08-17T14:57:04.000Z
- Description: Second annual Spark Tank Live event targets long-term financial stability for local families
- Author: Rica Simpson
- Tags: hutch, dnn, #news

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The United Way of Reno County is accepting applications from local nonprofits for its second annual Spark Tank Live pitch competition, offering organizations a chance to secure a $10,000 funding boost and win a share of more than $25,000 in total grant money.

The competition focuses on upstream programs designed to help families categorized as ALICE — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — build long-term stability and overcome financial barriers. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations must operate within Reno County, align with the United Way's community goals and demonstrate a measurable impact. The grants are part of the organization's broader initiative to reduce the number of poverty-level and ALICE households in the county by 5% over the next five years.

Four finalists will be selected to present their proposals before a live audience and a panel of judges on Oct. 24 at the 1861 Club on the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. The interactive event allows presenters to gain community exposure and build partnerships while competing for the funding pool to bring their projects to life.

United Way of Reno County CEO Lacey Mills said, "By giving these nonprofits a platform to share their vision, we're creating new opportunities for collaboration, expanding awareness of local resources, and investing in solutions that will strengthen Reno County for years to come."

Organizations have until Aug. 28 to submit their applications. The October event is backed by multiple community partners, including presenting sponsor ProValue Insurance and illuminating sponsor Hutchinson Clinic.

*This article was written using our proprietary AI system, Cronkite. The final decision to publish this article was made by a human. For more info, read our* [*AI policy*](https://www.citizenjournal.us/ai-policy/)*.*

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