The Community Foundation of Henderson County offers a Community Grant program designed to support tax-exempt organizations that are either located in Henderson County, North Carolina, or whose programs directly benefit its residents. The foundation seeks to fund projects that promote collaboration and coordination among local organizations while avoiding duplication of services. This grant program aligns with the foundation’s mission of fostering a stronger, more cohesive community by encouraging innovative and strategic solutions to local needs.
The grant supports initiatives across a broad range of interest areas including Animal Care, Arts and Culture, Civic Affairs, Conservation, Education, Health, and Human Services. Preference is given to programs that demonstrate collaboration, affect a large portion of the population, are aligned with community needs, minimize service duplication, and emphasize prevention and early intervention. Additional favorable considerations are given to pilot programs that show potential to serve as models for others and those with a reasonable expectation of continued support from other sources.
Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt organizations. The foundation does not provide funding to individuals (including scholarships), programs not benefiting Henderson County residents, annual fund campaigns, religious or political purposes, non-tax-exempt entities, or event underwriting. Each organization or program may typically receive only one grant per 12-month period.
Applications must be submitted via the online portal provided by the foundation. The portal can be accessed at https://cfhcgrants.communityforce.com. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the Program Office for questions or guidance at 828-697-6224 or via email at grants@CFHCforever.org. All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on the deadline day.
The Community Grant program operates on a quarterly cycle with deadlines on March 1st, June 1st, September 1st, and December 1st. Grant decisions are generally made two months after each submission deadline. This recurring cycle allows for multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year, though organizations should note the limitation of one grant award per program or agency annually.
The program provides structured and strategic grantmaking that ensures community-focused and outcome-oriented projects are prioritized. The Community Foundation of Henderson County maintains a clear and consistent approach to grantmaking that encourages innovation and sustainable community development within its designated region.
