Helping Emergency Response Organizations (H.E.R.O.) Grant Program

The Duke Energy Foundation’s 2026 Helping Emergency Response Organizations (H.E.R.O.) Grant Program represents a targeted philanthropic initiative focused on increasing the resiliency and preparedness of South Carolina communities in the face of severe weather events. Now in its fifth year, the H.E.R.O. program offers a total of $500,000 in funding through a microgrant format. Eligible nonprofits and governmental entities operating throughout the state are encouraged to submit applications for grant awards ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. The initiative focuses on building the capacity of emergency response organizations through training, equipment acquisition, and community education, aiming to enhance local infrastructure and readiness in the event of major weather emergencies. The grant program supports proposals that fall under one of three clearly defined project categories: specialized training for first responders to address severe weather scenarios, acquisition of equipment necessary for rescue operations during such events (excluding generators, solar-powered equipment, and all-terrain vehicles), and community preparedness initiatives that may include educational materials, kits, or shelter readiness efforts. Only one application per organization or governmental entity is accepted, and it must be submitted under the title “HERO” in the Benevity grant management system, where the applicant must already be registered. The Duke Energy Foundation specifies that only tax-exempt 501(c)(3) public charities and governmental organizations are eligible. Grants are restricted to U.S.-based organizations, and those located within South Carolina regions served by Duke Energy are given preference, particularly if they are in areas previously affected by severe weather or are serving low-income communities. The program does not fund individuals, for-profit companies, religious or political organizations, or entities that could pose a conflict of interest with Duke Energy. Ineligible uses also include general operating expenses, energy generation/storage, weatherization projects, and direct energy cost reductions. Applications for the 2026 cycle will be accepted from March 19 through April 24. A grant review period will follow from April 25 to May 20, with final announcements expected by May 29. The grant is one-time and non-recurring, with no indication of annual repetition beyond this cycle. While there are no pre-application stages such as letters of intent required, applicants must ensure that their submission meets all labeling and eligibility specifications to be considered for funding. Proposals will be evaluated on their alignment with the program’s goals, including the ability to demonstrate measurable community outcomes and emergency preparedness benefits. While specific scoring criteria are not disclosed, Duke Energy places emphasis on programs that deliver practical impact in under-resourced or disaster-prone communities. Applicants must ensure their program methodology includes a clear system for measuring and reporting results. Inquiries about the program can be directed to the Duke Energy Foundation via email at [email protected]. All applicants must ensure that submissions comply with the detailed eligibility rules, particularly regarding tax status and geographic service areas. The H.E.R.O. Grant Program reflects Duke Energy’s continued commitment to enhancing public safety, with a strategic focus on empowering emergency preparedness in communities most vulnerable to weather-related disasters.