Request for Proposals invites nonprofits to partner with youth to reimagine safe, supportive community spaces that promote mental wellbeing
The bi3 Fund today announced a new Request for Proposals (RFP), inviting local youth-serving nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to co-create or reimagine community spaces that help youth ages 12–24 build connection, belonging, and mental wellbeing.
Organizations can apply for grants ranging from $100,000 to $1.5 million. In total, bi3 will grant up to $5 million to fuel solutions in response to this RFP.
bi3 recognizes that those closest to the problem know what they need and are best positioned to come up with solutions. Thus, bi3 is partnering with Hopeful Empowered Youth (HEY!) Fellows to review proposals and recommend grants to be awarded.
“Youth are telling us they feel disconnected from each other, from adults, and from their communities,” Jill Miller, President & CEO of bi3, said. “By listening to and empowering youth to shape the spaces around them, we can build a community where every young person feels seen, supported, and that they belong.”
Addressing a growing local need:
Research shows that youth who feel supported are twice as likely to experience good mental health. Yet nationally, one in four young people reports lacking a sense of belonging. Locally, the Hopeful Empowered Youth (HEY!) Cincinnati needs assessment confirmed that youth in Greater Cincinnati crave safe, welcoming spaces to connect and build trusted relationships with adults.
bi3’s new RFP responds directly to these findings, prioritizing youth most affected by health disparities. bi3 will fund two types of grants under this RFP:
- Planning Grants ($100,000–$250,000 for 12–18 months): For organizations building youth relationships and developing engagement strategies.
- Implementation Grants ($750,000–$1.5 million over three years): For organizations ready to launch youth-led projects and reimagine community spaces.
Projects must focus on youth leadership, foster connections with caring adults, and empower adults to promote safety and resilience among young people.
Letters of Intent are due December 3, 2025. Invited applicants will submit full proposals by March 12, 2026. Applications will be reviewed by a youth panel, ensuring proposals reflect youth voice and priorities.
