M&T Bank announces call for proposals

The M&T Charitable Foundation, the philanthropic arm of M&T Bank, has announced its Amplify Fund II call for proposals.

The fund provides support to nonprofit initiatives in what’s considered “legacy People’s United communities” that benefit low- and moderate-income communities and underrepresented populations.

“The Amplify Fund provides targeted investments that are equitable, accessible, and responsive to local needs,” Dominique Goss, executive director of the M&T Charitable Foundation, said in a statement.

“It is our hope that these grants will create a sustainable impact in local communities,” Goss added. “M&T is proud to support the important work of advancing equity for historically excluded groups, and we encourage all interested nonprofits to apply.”

The new request for proposals seeks collaborations from nonprofits focused on advancing equity using a racial equity and social justice lens in areas that include Long Island. Amplify Fund’s Phase II grants will provide funding for up to three years.

• Applicants with eligible initiatives should respond directly to documented needs, challenges, and gaps communities are facing in the following areas:
• Family Stability: Affordable housing, food security, and access to quality and affordable childcare.
• Income & Wealth Equity: Employment, small business development, homeownership, and financial empowerment initiatives.
• Workforce Development: Education and training opportunities focused on upskilling and career pathways in high-growth sectors leading to economic prosperity.
• Health Equity: Access to quality and affordable healthcare, with a priority on youth mental health and women and infant health.

Special consideration will be given to initiatives that are providing access and opportunities to enable upward mobility, close the racial wealth gap, and address economic barriers and other opportunity gaps for marginalized and underrepresented populations, including low-to-moderate-income and BIPOC communities. Priority will also be given to applicant organizations that clearly articulate the needs to be addressed, with proven strategies in place to respond to those needs.

All RFPs are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct.  6, and can be submitted via https://mtb.versaic.com with the passcode AF-AEC.

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