Friday, February 20, 2026
Buffalo, N.Y. (February 20, 2026) — Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield today announced the opening of its ninth Blue Fund grant cycle, inviting nonprofit organizations to submit proposals for significant funding to advance critical health initiatives across Western New York. This year, the Blue Fund will award major grants ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, empowering local organizations to make a tangible difference in the community's greatest health challenges.
Since its establishment in 2018, the Blue Fund, a cornerstone of Highmark's Bright Blue Futures community giving and involvement program, has invested over $30 million in more than 130 health-focused initiatives.
This year's funding cycle continues the local health plan’s commitment, prioritizing impactful projects addressing key areas, including behavioral health, cardiovascular health, healthcare workforce development and maternal health.
These focus areas are strategically identified through comprehensive public health studies, analysis of Highmark claims data, and input from community leaders, ensuring the grants address the most pressing needs.
"The Blue Fund is more than just financial support; it's a powerful peer learning network and partnership that propels vital health initiatives forward," said Michael Ball, vice president, community affairs, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. "As a not-for-profit health plan, we are deeply committed to empowering the organizations on the front lines, whose dedication and innovation are truly transforming the well-being of our community. Together, we can achieve far greater positive change and build a healthier future for Western New York."
Eligible organizations must be based in one of the eight counties in Western New York, have a proven track record, and be prepared to implement their initiatives immediately. Prior to completing the Blue Fund Application, organizations are encouraged to review the program guidelines, which can be found on the company’s website.
Nonprofit organizations are invited to submit a brief letter of intent (LOI) by March 16, 2026 by 4p.m. through Highmark’s online application system. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit a full application. Funding decisions will be announced in the fall of 2026.
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to visit Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Fund website.
About Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is a trade name of Highmark Western and Northeastern New York Inc., independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Since 1936, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has helped millions of people lead healthier lives. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield offers a full range of insured, self-insured, and government programs and services covering businesses, families, and individuals, as well as dental and vision plans and stop-loss coverage. As a community-based, not-for-profit health plan, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield contributes significantly to organizations that strengthen and enrich the health of the community.
About Blue Fund
Blue Fund, funded solely by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, awards major grants in Western New York annually, to organizations and initiatives that have a positive impact on key health areas and will demonstrate enhanced measurable outcomes for community health metrics. These include behavioral health, cardiovascular health, health care workforce development and maternal health. Blue Fund is part of Highmark’s Bright Blue Futures community giving and involvement program.
For more information, contact:
Amber Hartmann
716-208-9534
Amber.Hartmann@highmarkhealth.org
