The Meantime Coffee Co.’s Junction Membership Grant (JMG) is a one-time membership opportunity designed to support one preexisting local community organization or student group in creating a meaningful social impact in the local community or beyond. Beginning in January 2027, the Meantime will pay a flat fee of $4,200 (amounting to $350 per month) to fund the recipient’s full-time Junction membership for one year. 

Organizations eligible for this one-time annual membership consist of previously established community organizations or student groups who are seeking avenues in which they can grow, notably in establishing a work environment that promotes focus, innovation, and connection. This membership is intended to provide organizations with the space, resources, and professional network needed to strengthen their operations and expand their community impact. The membership includes access to coworking and meeting spaces, event spaces, printing and office resources, mentorship and office hours, community programming, connections to student interns, and opportunities for community and industry exchange. 

Recipients would be expected to actively utilize the Junction’s resources throughout the membership period and complete a short post-award reflection at the end of the year. As part of the required post-award reflection, recipients will also be expected to provide tips, insights, and advice that will be shared with the following year’s recipients to promote connection and knowledge between past and emerging organizations as well as participate in marketing initiatives with The Meantime. Recipients will also be encouraged to participate in Junction opportunities such as Community Days, open networking events, and other collaborative programming to build relationships within Innovate Carolina. For a closer look at amenities, click here.

*Social Entrepreneurship is an approach by individuals, groups, start-up companies, or entrepreneurs, in which they develop, fund, and implement solutions to social, cultural, or environmental issues.

Considerations when applying for The Meantime Coffee Co. Junction Membership Grant:

1. Relevance to Social Concerns in Orange County: Projects focusing on issues relevant to social concerns in Orange County* will be given preference. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to incorporate a commitment to DEI into their proposal.

   • *This criteria recognizes that social concerns may involve communities local to Orange County or beyond, acknowledging that oftentimes, we seek to solve problems that impact other/broader communities.

2. Demonstrated Feasibility and Sustainability: Projects are realistic and have a clear plan for implementation. The potential for the venture to continue and grow after one year should be observable and will be considered when proposals are reviewed. 

   • To show demonstrated sustainability/feasibility of one’s organization, we ask that applicants provide a history of their financial health and/or past experiences of the organization. 

3. Engagement History and Integrated Decision-Making: Projects that directly involve and benefit community members will be given preference. Community involvement with the organization may consist of taking part in planning and decision-making through representation or direct communication.

4. Impact: Applicants should clearly articulate the intended immediate and long-term impact of the project.