SEATTLE– Verity Credit Union, which focuses on socially responsible banking, has announced a new Grants for Growth campaign that it said is designed to provide “flexible funding and values-aligned relationship support to small businesses and nonprofits that serve and uplift their communities.”
The $735-million Verity CU said its Grants for Growth initiative expands its well-known Microgrant Program, now called its Nonprofit Microgrant, to include Microbusiness Grants, further leveraging the credit union’s Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI)-aligned status to strengthen community wealth and expand opportunities for historically excluded entrepreneurs and grassroots organizations in Washington.
Extension of Mission
“Grants for Growth is an extension of Verity’s mission to put people and community before profit, extending and deepening relationships,” CEO Tonita Webb said in a statement. “Through this initiative, we seek to give business owners and nonprofit leaders support, building confidence and camaraderie. By removing barriers and centering, we’re helping local businesses and nonprofits grow in ways that honor their values and strengthen our region.”
What’s Included
According to the credit union, the new Grants for Growth campaign encompasses its:
- Microbusiness Grant: $7,000 to $10,000 in flexible funding and relationship support for small business owners with less than $1 million in annual revenue and under 10 employees. Eligible applicants include BIPOC-, women-, LGBTQ+-, and veteran-owned businesses operating for fewer than five years.
- Nonprofit Microgrant, previously known as the Microgrant Program: Up to $5,000 in flexible funding and relationship support for grassroots 501(c)(3) organizations with assets under $250,000. Eligible nonprofits must be led by or serve historically marginalized communities and advance social justice, environmental justice, equity, or financial wellness.
Additional Benefits
Verity CU said that beyond direct funding, grant recipients will have access to ongoing relationships and advocacy, including increased visibility, financial coaching, and access to additional Verity resources such as business loans.
“Unlike traditional grant programs that can be exclusionary and overly formal, Verity’s Grants for Growth are accessible and attainable,” the credit union said. “As a community development credit union, Verity prioritizes authenticity, transparency, and access to real people behind the brand.”
About the Application Process
Applications opened on Oct. 1 for the Nonprofit Microgrant and will open on Oct. 15 for the Microbusiness Grant, with both closing on Nov. 2. Membership is not required, and prior applicants are welcome.
Submissions will be evaluated by a Verity review committee using a rubric focused on alignment with Verity’s values, potential community impact, and financial need, the credit union said, adding that organizations not selected for funding will still gain access to a nurturing journey of resources, tools, and future opportunities through Verity.
