MassMutual Foundation increases support to expand Flexible Funding opportunities in 2026

SPRINGFIELD, MA – The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts announced the distribution of $3,347,000 in unrestricted grant funding through its Flexible Funding cycle, supporting 123 nonprofit organizations across Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. Funding may be used at the nonprofit’s discretion to advance its mission, strengthen operations, support staff, or respond to evolving community needs.

“Flexible Funding has played a critical role in strengthening our nonprofit sector,” said Denise Hurst, Vice President of Community Impact and Partnerships. “Our approach has helped us to support the sector’s stability, responsiveness, and the long-term impact they have in their communities.”

This round of Flexible Funding comes at a time when the majority of nonprofit applicants reported federal funding losses. Flexible Funding enables nonprofit leaders to make informed, strategic decisions based on their in-depth understanding of the challenges they face. It reflects the Community Foundation’s commitment to supporting its grant recipients in ways that align with their priorities and long-term goals.

The Community Foundation has also announced that it has received an increase in support for its next grant cycle. The MassMutual Foundation has committed $1,000,000 towards 2027 Flexible Funding grants, which will help address barriers to financial well-being in Springfield while expanding the total amount available for next year’s Flexible Funding recipients. Through this grant, the MassMutual Foundation aims to increase access to social and economic opportunities in its local community. The increase builds upon steady growth in philanthropic support from the MassMutual Foundation since 2024 and allows the Community Foundation to support nonprofits on a greater scale.

“Our investment in the Flexible Funding program reflects our confidence in the Foundation’s deep understanding of the region and its ability to listen closely to nonprofit leaders,” said Dennis Duquette, President and CEO of the MassMutual Foundation. “By staying attuned to evolving community needs tied to the financial stability of families, the Foundation is able to direct resources where they can make the greatest impact. We are pleased to place our trust in the Community Foundation’s stewardship of this funding to strengthen organizations and communities in Springfield.”

“The MassMutual Foundation’s increased investment allows us to expand and refine our Flexible Funding support so that it best responds to the needs of the moment,” said Megan Burke, Community Foundation’s President and CEO. “It comes at a time when many nonprofit organizations are navigating reduced or uncertain federal funding this year and allows us to shape resources in ways that increase their impact, strengthen leadership, and ensure organizations have what they need to serve their communities today and into the years ahead.”

More information about the Community Foundation and its Flexible Funding program is available at www.communityfoundation.org.