The Victory Cup Initiative (VCI) is once again inviting Central Florida nonprofits to take center stage, with applications for its 2026 program opening on September 2, 2025. Designed to spotlight organizations that are making a meaningful impact, the program provides a unique opportunity for nonprofits to share their mission, connect with the community, and compete for funding.
About the Victory Cup Initiative
Victory Cup Initiative was founded to elevate the nonprofit sector by giving organizations a platform to showcase their work and inspire generosity. The initiative highlights five key goals:
Inspire – Share powerful stories that reflect the excellence of the community.
Teach – Provide nonprofits with training to become stronger storytellers.
Fund – Award selected nonprofits with financial support to further their mission.
Promote – Encourage collaboration among nonprofits to strengthen community impact.
Partner – Connect nonprofits with Central Florida’s business leaders to address pressing community needs.
Funding Model
VCI operates with a dual funding approach. The SPARK Program—supported by entrepreneurs, foundations, and business leaders—covers operational costs such as marketing, administration, and salaries. This multiyear commitment allows the organization to plan effectively and maintain stability.
Additionally, VCI follows a 100% model in which all award sponsorships, table sales, and ticket revenue go directly to the nonprofit finalists. This ensures that every dollar raised supports the organizations showcased on stage.
Eligibility and Application Process
To participate, nonprofits must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations headquartered in Orange, Osceola, Brevard, or Seminole counties. Organizations must also be available for all mandatory dates outlined in the program schedule.
Key eligibility notes include:
Past finalists must wait five years before reapplying.
Nonprofits that participated in 2020 or earlier are eligible to return.
A Central Florida Foundation (CFF) profile is no longer required, though it remains encouraged.
2026 Program Timeline
September 2, 2025 – Application Opens
October 27, 2025 – Top 10 Finalists Announced
November 12, 2025 – Finalist Briefing (Mandatory)
November 19, 2025 – Storytelling Workshop (Mandatory, all day)
January 7, 2026 – One-on-One Coaching (Mandatory, virtual)
January 30, 2026 – One-on-One Coaching (Mandatory)
February 11, 2026 – Speak with Ease Coaching (Mandatory)
February 25, 2026 – Victory Cup Breakfast (Mandatory)
Strengthening Central Florida’s Nonprofit Community
By providing training, funding, and a platform for storytelling, the Victory Cup Initiative continues to strengthen the nonprofit ecosystem in Central Florida. Through collaboration with the business community and a commitment to transparency, VCI fosters both generosity and long-term sustainability for local organizations.
For more information about the Victory Cup Initiative and to apply for the 2026 program, nonprofits are encouraged to visit the organization’s official website.