For the 2026 Accelerator Program, the Social Innovation Forum (SIF) is seeking nonprofit organizations working in the following issue areas. Please review the specific track criteria to find the track(s) most applicable for your organization. Organizations may apply for up to two tracks. 

Access to Educational and Workforce Opportunities for Youth and Young Adults

Track Partner: SIF Change Champions

Criteria will be coming soon! 

Advancing Social and Legal Supports for Immigrants, Refugees, and Asylum Seekers 

Track Partner: SIF Change Champions

Key Characteristics of Strong Applicants

We seek applicants working with immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented individuals, and mixed-status families who demonstrate one or multiple of the following characteristics:

• Provide education, outreach, language/translation, and/or technical assistance to immigrant communities and peer organizations.
• Provide free or low-cost legal services related to naturalization, asylum and detention support, and immigration relief.
• Offer citizenship instruction using structured curriculum and textbooks, virtually or in-person.
• Demonstrate collaboration with city/state agencies or other immigrant-focused nonprofits.
• Offer wraparound services, such as childcare, housing support, and/or access to health services.
• Offer initiatives designed to build community and celebrate cultural heritage.
• Organizations working in gateway cities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Meet the Social Innovator Accelerator Criteria. 

Engaging Older Adults: A Holistic Approach to Reducing Social Isolation

Track Partner:  Stifler Family Foundation 

This social issue track is designed to support organizations that address social isolation among adults aged 65 and older through holistic, multi-dimensional approaches. Eligible nonprofits can include both organizations that work exclusively with older adults, as well as those that have major programs engaging older adults. 

Our goal is to help adults aged 65 and older thrive by addressing their evolving needs—medical, social, educational, financial, and housing—while also providing meaningful opportunities for them to participate and contribute to the life of their communities. 

Key Characteristics of Strong Applicants

We seek applicants working with adults aged 65 and older who demonstrate one or multiple of the following characteristics

• Support active engagement in social, civic, artistic, educational, and community activities.
• Reduce isolation and loneliness through strategies that:
  • Engage older adults as volunteers, sharing their life stories, experiences, and skills with the community.
  • Provide consistent, meaningful interaction with volunteers and program staff through both one-on-one and group settings.
  • Enhance communication through technology and language support.
  • Adapt to the physical, cognitive, and sensory changes associated with aging.
  • Reach older adults living independently, in congregate settings, or geographically distanced from family members.
• Foster intergenerational connections by partnering older adults with younger individuals through schools, after-school programs, or nonprofit initiatives.
• Promote vibrant and healthy lifestyles, including access to physical activity, healthy eating, and overall wellness opportunities.
• Offer supportive services such as housing navigation, transportation assistance, employment support, and help accessing the healthcare system.
• Encourage collaborative efforts, bringing together organizations to coordinate services and address the differing and complex needs of older adults, their families, and caregivers.
• Meet the Social Innovator Accelerator Criteria.

 

Pathways to Climate Resiliency (closed for submissions) 

Closed for submissions. If you have questions, please email accelerator@socialinnovationforum.org. 

Supporting and Uplifting the LGTBQ+ Community 

Track Partner: The Colman and Carol Levin Fund

Key Characteristics of Strong Applicants

We seek applicants who are primarily serving LGBTQ+ populations, especially young people and seniors, through one or multiple of the following characteristics:

Community Support: Services may include - housing, emergency assistance, crisis resolution, companionship, job training, and community building.

Awareness and Visibility: Offer initiatives designed to increase awareness and understanding of the obstacles and discrimination the LGBTQ+ community experiences and foster a more inclusive environment. Activate individuals in civic engagement and organizing efforts. Uplift creative artists and provide cultural visibility in towns and neighborhoods. 

Health and Wellness Initiatives: Services may include: clinical care with a trauma-informed, patient-centered approach, mental health support, and access to inclusive sex education.

Meet the Social Innovator Accelerator Criteria.

Supporting Basic Financial Needs: Housing & Food Security 

Track Partner:  MassMutual Foundation

Criteria will be coming soon!