Chowan Community Funds Foundation Unrestricted Endowment

The Chowan Community Funds Foundation (CCFF), an affiliate of the North Carolina Community Foundation (NCCF), is a locally driven philanthropic organization that was established in 2006. It is governed by a volunteer advisory board that fosters local investment through endowments and community-based grantmaking. The foundation serves Chowan County, North Carolina, by providing financial support to nonprofit and public organizations that meet local needs in diverse areas such as human services, health, education, youth development, arts, and nutrition. The foundation's Unrestricted Endowment accepts applications annually for general operating support or project-based funding. For the 2026 grant cycle, applications will be accepted from April 3, 2026, until NOON Eastern Time on May 5, 2026. Late applications, including those delayed due to technical difficulties, will not be accepted. The process is managed through the NCCF’s Grant Application Portal, where both new and returning applicants must follow outlined procedures. Training Module I is for first-time users to create profiles, while Training Module II details how to submit a grant application. Grants generally range from $500 to $5,000, and in 2025, CCFF distributed $26,400 to several local initiatives. These included support for domestic violence survivors, early literacy programs, outdoor youth camps, and general operations for youth-serving organizations. Funding is awarded from the foundation’s community grantmaking fund and the Ann L. Sams Endowment. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, entities with qualified fiscal sponsors, local governments including public schools, fire and rescue departments, and certain faith-based organizations providing secular community services. Organizations must serve Chowan County and adhere to strict non-discrimination policies. The fund does not support activities such as political lobbying, capital campaigns, sectarian programs, individual benefits, or reimbursements for prior costs. Grants are typically awarded about two months after the application period closes. Decisions are guided in part by a local Community Needs Assessment. Additional information is available through the NCCF, and prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the Program Officer with questions.

Applications that do not adhere to guidelines will be ineligible for funding