The Citi Foundation has announced a $35 million Request for Proposals (RFP) for its 2026 Community Finance Initiative, reaffirming its commitment to improving the financial resilience of low-income households across the United States. The RFP invites applications from nonprofit organizations that focus on strengthening financial health in vulnerable communities.
The initiative will provide $500,000 grants to 70 selected nonprofits, with funding directed toward programs that help individuals stabilize their finances, build long-term assets, and protect against financial threats.
Program Focus Areas
The 2026 Community Finance Initiative is centered on three core strategies that aim to address both immediate financial challenges and long-term stability:
| Focus Area | Objective | Example Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Stabilize | Help households regain balance during financial stress | Financial coaching, debt counseling, assistance navigating public benefits |
| Strengthen | Support asset building and credit access | Credit repair, emergency fund programs, first-time homebuyer education |
| Safeguard | Prevent financial harm and support safe financial behavior | Fraud prevention, identity protection, secure use of digital finance tools |
Each selected nonprofit will receive $500,000 to carry out programs aligned with these pillars.
Deadline and Application
Nonprofits interested in applying must submit their proposals by 12:00 PM ET (noon) on February 18, 2026. Full RFP guidelines and submission details can be accessed via the Citi Foundation’s website.
Why This Matters
The announcement comes amid growing affordability challenges across the country. According to recent Pew Research Center findings, only 20% of low-income Americans report their personal finances as being in good or excellent shape. Additional data from the Financial Health Network reveals:
- Fewer than 50% have savings to cover three months of expenses
- Fewer than one in three feel confident about achieving long-term financial goals
The Citi Foundation aims to fill the gap between policy-level solutions and on-the-ground assistance by investing in community-based programs that offer both immediate relief and pathways to lasting stability.
Leadership Perspective
“While policymakers address macro issues of affordability, we believe there is an important role for community-based organizations delivering financial health-focused programming,” said Brandee McHale, President of the Citi Foundation and Head of Community Investing and Development at Citi.
She added, “The Citi Foundation is committed to helping families and individuals find more financial stability, safety and a stronger footing so they can keep moving forward on their financial paths. Through this initiative, we hope to build financial resilience throughout our communities, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to thrive.”
Building on a Broader Commitment
The 2026 initiative is part of the Foundation’s ongoing Community Finance Initiative, which supports inclusive financial solutions across the country. In addition to grantmaking, Citi continues to promote community engagement through volunteer financial education workshops, helping individuals build savings habits and set realistic financial goals.
Organizations selected for this initiative will join a growing network of community partners helping to address affordability, reduce inequality, and ensure more Americans are financially equipped to face the future.
FAQs
What is the deadline to apply for the 2026 RFP?
The submission deadline is 12 PM ET on February 18, 2026.
How much funding will each nonprofit receive?
Each selected nonprofit will receive a $500,000 grant.
What types of programs are eligible?
Programs that stabilize, strengthen, or safeguard household finances.
How many nonprofits will be selected?
A total of 70 nonprofits will be awarded grants.
