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Building Capacity. Cultivating Change. Transforming Communities.

 

 

The Ukuaji Initiative empowers grassroots organizations and aspiring business owners in Kentuckiana with the resources, training, and support they need to succeed.

About Us

Collaborative Partners

Cultivating Grassroots

BIPOC Led Agencies

Initiatives

The People's Pot

Contact Us

Creating Agency, "Ukuaji Style..."

The Ukuaji Process

The Ukuaji Process is designed to guide grassroots organizations from idea to impact. Through a structured journey of support, organizations receive the tools, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale your mission, Ukuaji provides a proven pathway for sustainable growth. Begin by checking your eligibility and taking the first step toward meaningful community change.

Step One: Dream
Eligibility & Application

Every great program begins with a bold idea. This first step helps grassroots organizations assess their readiness and begin the application process. We ensure that each applicant aligns with our mission to uplift emerging agencies and has the foundational structure to grow. 

  • ​Must serve Kentuckiana

  • Budget under $100k

  • Online application + optional info sessions

  • Finalists invited to brief interviews

  • Please complete contact page for inquiries/ Will update info for the next upcoming cohort.

Classmates

Step 2: Develop
Join a Ukuaji Pod

Selected applicants are welcomed into small learning cohorts called Ukuaji Pods. These pods provide tailored coaching, peer collaboration, and expert training designed to strengthen programs and develop strong organizational foundations.​

  • ​Small cohorts of 10 organizations

  • Regular meetups for coaching, training, and peer support

  • Focus on developing viable programs and business models

Colleagues Working Together

Step 3: Deploy
Activate Your Impact

With a solid foundation in place, organizations gain access to tools and support that help launch and sustain their work. From grant writing to leadership development, this final stage equips participants to deliver lasting community impact.
 

  • ​Grant writing & program development support

  • 501(c)(3) formation help

  • Access to one-day leadership institutes

  • Resources to sustain and scale

 

Graduation Portrait Outdoors

Who We Are

We are excited about this  capacity building initiative that equips grassroots agencies throughout Kentucky. This initiative turns big ideas into funded, scalable programs. 

The Ukuaji is a project sourced and founded by The

Buttafly Center, Inc.

The Buttafly Center is part of The Buttafly Group...

Buttafly Center

Buttafly School

Buttafly Arts

Buttafly Communications/ for agencies seeking one on one capacity building support (Services include; business plans,policies and procedures nonprofit/forprofit formation, program/proposal development.)

Classmates in Library
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