92NY’s Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact, in partnership with SEED SPOT, is now accepting applications for the second cohort of UpTide, an accelerator built for community-building nonprofits ready to reach the next level of impact.
The inaugural cohort just proved what’s possible. On January 28, 2026, UpTide’s first five nonprofit leaders took the stage at 92NY for a live Showcase, presenting their work to a room of funders, supporters, and changemakers after five months of sharpening their strategic plans, refining their missions, and activating their boards. Tahlia Natachu of the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project took home the $25,000 prize for her organization’s work fostering resilience, cultural connection, and youth empowerment in the Zuni community of New Mexico. Watch the Showcase to relive the night.
Now, UpTide is looking for its next cohort. The accelerator supports nonprofits from across the US that have developed new, replicable models for increasing connection and strengthening community ties, drawing on the combined expertise of 92NY, SEED SPOT, and a deep network of collaborators.
The 2026 cohort will bring together 5 nonprofit leaders from diverse organizations working to address the crisis of disconnection in their communities. The accelerator runs September through December 2026, culminating in a showcase of the cohort’s work at 92NY in January 2027.
UpTide’s long-term goal: develop 50+ nonprofit leaders whose organizations each double their impact within 3 years of completing the program to reach a combined total of 500,000+ people impacted.
Key Features of the Accelerator
- All workshops are held virtually, with a time commitment of 8–10 hours per month
- The program culminates in an in-person showcase in New York City, where participants present their organization on a historic 92NY stage to potential funders and members of the public
- Programming includes professional development workshops, peer networking with fellow cohort members, and 1:1 coaching and mentorship with experts
- Cohort members receive a $5,000 stipend, a 3-year strategic plan with a clear path to scale, and a dedicated session pairing 2 members of their board with 92NY board members
- One participant at the final showcase is awarded a $25,000 prize
- Upon completing the program, cohort members gain access to grant opportunities and lifetime alumni benefits, including ongoing mentorship, funding resources, and legal support
Meet the Inaugural Cohort
- Tahlia Natachu, Zuni Youth Enrichment Project
Winner of the inaugural UpTide $25,000 prize, for a data-informed program fostering resilience, cultural connection, and youth empowerment within the Zuni community in New Mexico.
- Emily Blum, Disability Lead
Amplifies the leadership of people with disabilities to drive deeper inclusion.
- Elana Rivel, Jewish Learning Venture
Creates engaging Jewish learning experiences that build community connection and lifelong participation in Jewish life across Philadelphia.
- Jamila Trimuel, Ladies of Virtue
Dedicated to empowering Black girls in Chicago.
- Jon Adam Ross, Inheritance Theater Project
Uses theater to build year-long civic relationships, sparking dialogue across differences and creating practical tools to bridge division.
Learn more about the UpTide Nonprofit Accelerator. Applications are open now and will be accepted through August 31, 2026.
