North Carolina Education Grants

The Greenville Zoo Conservation Grants program is designed to support and promote conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all living things, directly aligning with the foundation's mission of promoting conservation and sustainability, seeking knowledge through science, and collaborating to maximize impact. This program is funded through the “Quarters for Conservation” initiative and supports both local conservation projects in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, as well as national and international endeavors. The target beneficiaries are free-ranging wildlife and their habitats, as well as communities and individuals who can be educated or empowered in conservation. The program aims for several impact goals, including the long-term survival of species in natural ecosystems, increased public awareness and appreciation of wildlife conservation issues, and the transfer of conservation skills and technology. Expected outcomes include a reduction in human-wildlife conflict, successful reintroduction programs, improved water quality, and the creation of new conservation leaders. The program prioritizes projects focusing on Field Conservation, Conservation Research, and Conservation Education. Local projects receive preferred funding, and greater weight is given to applications addressing species and habitats at risk. This strategic focus ensures that resources are directed to areas with the most urgent needs and potential for significant impact, reflecting the zoo's commitment to protecting vulnerable ecosystems and species. The funding structure includes a New Grants Program for first-time applicants, offering $300 to $1,500, and a Continuing Grants Program for established partners, providing up to $3,500. This tiered approach supports both emerging and ongoing conservation initiatives, fostering long-term relationships with successful grantees. The overall theory of change is that by investing in scientific research, education, and direct field action, the program can collectively contribute to a more sustainable future for wildlife and natural habitats.

The Wyoming Arts Council’s Performing Arts Fellowships program is designed to honor and support excellence in the fields of Music and Theatre/Dance. These fellowships are unrestricted awards of merit, providing $5,000 to artists. The program's core mission aligns with fostering artistic excellence within Wyoming by recognizing exceptional talent and providing financial support that allows artists to further their craft and impact the cultural landscape of the state. The selection process involves a jury of noted professionals who evaluate applicants based on appropriate media samples and artist statements, ensuring that the awards are granted to artists who demonstrate significant achievement and potential in their respective disciplines. The primary beneficiaries of this program are individual performing artists residing in Wyoming, specifically those engaged in music or theatre/dance. The program targets artists who are at least 18 years of age, not full-time students, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and have maintained domicile in Wyoming for a specified period. The impact goal is to enhance the artistic vitality of Wyoming by empowering its most talented performing artists. By providing unrestricted funds, the fellowship aims to give artists the freedom to pursue projects, training, or creative endeavors that will elevate their work and, in turn, enrich the artistic offerings within the state and potentially beyond. The program prioritizes artistic excellence and the advancement of individual artists' careers in music and theatre/dance. A key focus is on supporting artists who have a strong connection to Wyoming, as evidenced by residency requirements. The emphasis on merit, assessed through artistic samples and statements, ensures that the fellowships are awarded to those who have demonstrated a high level of accomplishment and commitment to their art form. The program’s strategic priorities include nurturing a vibrant arts community and ensuring that Wyoming artists have opportunities for professional recognition and growth. The theory of change posits that by investing directly in exceptional individual artists, the program will contribute to a stronger, more dynamic arts ecosystem in Wyoming. Expected outcomes of the Performing Arts Fellowships include an increase in the quality and quantity of artistic output by award recipients, enhanced professional development opportunities for Wyoming artists, and a heightened profile for Wyoming's performing arts scene. Measurable results could include tracking the artistic achievements and career advancements of past fellows, such as new performances, compositions, choreographic works, national or international recognition, and the overall impact of their work on local communities. While the grant duration is not specified, the ongoing nature of the fellowship program, with a maximum of two awards per artist lifetime and a four-year waiting period between fellowships, suggests a sustained commitment to long-term artistic development within the state.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Guilford County that empower women and girls through career development, education, and leadership initiatives.

The North Carolina IOLTA's Administration of Justice Grants program is dedicated to improving the administration of justice within North Carolina. This program aligns with the foundation's mission by focusing on areas where grants can have a measurable impact on the justice system's effectiveness and expediency. Key areas of funding include improving the operation and management of the justice system, public education and understanding about the law, promotion and support for a full range of dispute resolution techniques and alternatives, and promotion and support for public interest legal representation. The primary beneficiaries of this program are North Carolina residents who are indigent, defined as individuals at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or eligible for public assistance. Programs may also consider other factors like access to liquid assets, fixed debts, obligations, and family size. The goal is to provide services without charge, though nominal fees with complete waiver options are permitted, especially in areas where legal services are otherwise unavailable to low-income clients. The impact goals are centered on enhancing access to justice for those who cannot afford legal assistance, thereby strengthening the overall justice system. Funding criteria prioritize applicants seeking start-up funds or seed money for new projects, programs offering services to individuals who do not qualify for civil legal aid but cannot afford legal assistance (including pro bono programs), programs with demonstration value or replication potential, initiatives with statewide significance, and requests for matching funds. The program specifically avoids funding direct service programs (e.g., counseling), replicas of established programs, local community groups unrelated to the practice of law, programs for which there is governmental funding responsibility, and continuing program support for local projects exceeding three years. The expected outcomes include a more effective and expeditious justice system in North Carolina, increased public understanding of the law, broader access to dispute resolution techniques, and stronger public interest legal representation. By focusing on these strategic priorities, NC IOLTA aims to foster a justice system that is more accessible, equitable, and efficient for all North Carolina residents, particularly those with limited financial means. The theory of change is that targeted investments in the operational aspects of the justice system, coupled with efforts to educate the public and support legal aid, will lead to significant improvements in how justice is administered across the state. The grant period for these projects is January 1 – December 31, 2025.

The North Carolina IOLTA's Civil Legal Aid Grant Program aims to provide general support for a network of organizations that ensure basic access to the justice system for indigent individuals across all counties in North Carolina. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to support civil legal aid, encompassing direct representation, training, and technical assistance for eligible clients and groups. Organizations, whether staffed or utilizing pro bono lawyers, contribute to this mission by offering crucial legal services without charge to clients who meet the indigency criteria. The program primarily targets North Carolina residents who are indigent, defined as individuals at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or eligible for public assistance. Impact goals center on expanding access to justice for these low-income clients, particularly those who are not currently being reached or who require services not otherwise available. The program also seeks to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and collaboration within the civil legal aid delivery system to ensure high-quality legal assistance for the poor. The program offers four main areas of funding, each with distinct priorities. General Civil Legal Aid Grants provide programmatic support to non-profit legal aid organizations whose primary purpose is to serve low-income clients. Project Support Grants focus on specific client subgroups or service types, addressing unmet needs. Pro Bono Support Grants are dedicated to developing and expanding efforts to engage lawyers in voluntary legal services, specifically for indigent clients. Finally, System Support Grants aim to improve the overall civil legal aid delivery system through initiatives like training, research, program innovations, and online tools. Funding criteria prioritize applicants providing direct representation to clients or client groups, including extended representation, brief advice, community legal education, and community economic development. Preference is given to staffed civil legal aid organizations, recognizing them as the most effective means of delivery, with pro bono efforts serving as a vital supplement. The program also favors current qualified providers and organizations with diverse funding sources, emphasizing a sustainable approach to providing legal services. The expected outcomes include increased access to legal services for indigent populations, improved program efficiency, enhanced collaboration among legal aid providers, and ultimately, a more equitable justice system for low-income North Carolinians. The grant period for these initiatives is January 1 to December 31, 2025.

The Haywood County Community Foundation is accepting applications from qualified charitable organizations that serve the local Haywood County community in North Carolina. This grant program is designed to address a broad range of local needs, encompassing human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts, among others. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by this grant, is to support community-based initiatives that enhance the well-being and development of its residents. The target beneficiaries of this grant are the residents of Haywood County, with a particular focus on those served by 501(c)(3) public charity nonprofit organizations, local governments (including public schools), fire and rescue departments, and religious entities engaged in social outreach and charitable service programs. The impact goal is to strengthen the community by funding programs that directly meet local needs and improve the quality of life for its citizens. The grantmaking prioritizes a wide array of community needs. While specific strategic priorities or a theory of change are not explicitly detailed beyond meeting "local needs," the broad categories indicate a holistic approach to community development. The foundation aims to fund projects that are inclusive and non-discriminatory, supporting organizations that offer programs and services without prejudice based on age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious belief. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,000, suggesting a focus on supporting smaller, impactful projects or providing seed funding for broader initiatives. While specific measurable results are not outlined in the provided text, the expectation is that funded programs will contribute to positive outcomes in the community, aligned with the stated areas of focus such as improved human services, enhanced educational opportunities, better health outcomes, and increased access to food and nutrition. The emphasis on local needs implies a theory of change where targeted, community-level funding leads to tangible improvements in the daily lives of Haywood County residents.

The North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation offers $50,000 grants to North Carolina community-based nonprofit organizations for new projects or for expanding/enhancing existing programs in science, health, and education. Projects should address critical community needs identified through comprehensive assessments, align with local agency goals, and demonstrate sustainability post-funding. Grants do not support core mission, general operating costs, construction/renovation projects, medical services, or equipment. Grant renewed every year. Annual Fall deadline: October 1st

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Burke County, North Carolina, for charitable, humanitarian, or educational programs that support local residents, particularly underserved communities.

The Edgecombe Charitable Foundation offers community grants to qualified charitable organizations serving Edgecombe County, North Carolina. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to address a broad range of local needs, supporting initiatives in human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, arts, and other community-benefiting areas. The foundation's strategic priority is to foster the well-being and development of the local community by providing crucial funding for diverse programs. The target beneficiaries for these grants include a wide array of community members served by eligible organizations. The impact goals are to support and enhance essential services and programs that improve the quality of life within Edgecombe County. The foundation focuses on tangible community benefits, aiming for outcomes such as improved access to education, better health outcomes, enhanced youth development opportunities, and increased access to food and nutritional resources. The priorities for funding include 501(c)(3) public charity nonprofit organizations, organizations with a fiscal agent who is a 501(c)(3) public charity, local governments (including public schools), and fire and rescue departments. Religious entities can also apply for social outreach and charitable service programs, but not for general operating support. Organizations must serve the counties within the affiliate network and offer programs without discrimination. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000, with a maximum of $10,000 for an "Impact Grant" for a single organization. The expected outcomes include the successful implementation of programs that meet identified community needs and contribute to the overall betterment of Edgecombe County. Measurable results would be tied to the specific objectives of each funded project, such as the number of individuals served, improvements in specific health indicators, educational attainment, or participation in arts and cultural programs. The foundation's theory of change is that by strategically investing in diverse community-serving organizations, it can create a lasting positive impact on the lives of residents and the overall health of the community.

The Avery Community Foundation (ACF) is offering community grants to qualified charitable organizations serving Avery County, North Carolina. This grant program aligns with the foundation's mission to address a broad range of local needs. The ACF seeks to support initiatives that strengthen the community across various sectors, demonstrating a strategic commitment to comprehensive local development. The grant program targets a diverse range of beneficiaries within Avery County, including those in need of human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts. The impact goal is to meet these local needs through funding programs that deliver direct benefits to the community-at-large. The foundation prioritizes organizations that provide programs and services without discrimination based on age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious belief. The program focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) public charity nonprofit organizations, organizations with a fiscal agent who is a 501(c)(3) public charity, local governments (including public schools), and fire and rescue departments. Religious entities may also apply for funding to support social outreach and charitable service programs that benefit the community-at-large, but not for general operating support. This focus ensures that funding reaches a wide array of entities capable of implementing effective community programs. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond meeting local needs, the foundation expects outcomes that demonstrably improve the quality of life and address the identified challenges within Avery County. The typical grant range of $500 to $1,000 suggests a strategy of providing smaller, impactful grants to support numerous local initiatives. The ACF's theory of change appears to be rooted in empowering local organizations to directly address community needs, thereby fostering a more resilient and thriving local environment.

This funding opportunity supports research projects that promote innovation and development in North Carolina's agricultural economy, targeting universities, non-profits, and businesses involved in agriculture.

The Eastern Band of Cherokees Community Foundation is offering community grants to qualified charitable organizations serving tribal members in Swain, Jackson, Cherokee, Graham, and Haywood counties of North Carolina. These grants are designed to address a broad range of local needs, including human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts. The foundation's mission, though not explicitly stated as a separate entity from the grant program, aligns with fostering community well-being and supporting essential services within the tribal member communities it serves. The grantmaking strategy focuses on empowering local organizations to deliver impactful programs that directly benefit the identified counties. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are tribal members residing in the specified counties. The overarching impact goal is to meet local needs across a variety of sectors, thereby improving the quality of life and strengthening the communities served. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not detailed, the broad range of purposes suggests a desire for tangible improvements in areas such as access to education, enhanced health outcomes, youth engagement, and cultural enrichment. The funding information, which indicates grants typically range from $500 to $1,000, implies that these grants are intended to support smaller-scale, community-led initiatives that can have a direct and immediate impact. The program prioritizes organizations that are 501(c)(3) public charities, those with a fiscal agent who is a 501(c)(3) public charity, local governments (including public schools), and fire and rescue departments. Religious entities may also apply for funding, but only for social outreach and charitable service programs that benefit the community at large, not for general operating support. This focus ensures that the grants are directed towards organizations with a proven commitment to public service and community benefit, while also establishing clear boundaries for religious organizations to maintain a charitable rather than proselytizing focus. A key strategic priority for the foundation is to ensure that funding directly benefits the communities within its affiliate network. Organizations serving multiple counties within the network are even encouraged to submit separate applications for each affiliate, underscoring a commitment to localized impact. Furthermore, a crucial element of the foundation's theory of change is the requirement that organizations offer programs and services without discrimination based on age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious belief. This commitment to inclusivity and equitable access ensures that the grant funds serve all eligible tribal members, fostering a more just and supportive community environment.

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in western North Carolina to enhance youth mental health and resilience through collaborative, youth-led initiatives, particularly in areas affected by economic distress and natural disasters.

Brunswick Electric Membership Corp. (BEMC) offers Community Grants for a wide array of programs within its service areas, including Brunswick and Columbus counties, as well as parts of Bladen and Robeson counties in North Carolina. These grants support various initiatives, such as family service programs, civic and community programs, cultural and arts programs, emergency services, and economic development activities aimed at enhancing the community's well-being. The grant aims to fund projects and programs that offer significant benefits to the BEMC service area, prioritizing those that cater to families, children, the elderly, and economic health. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadline: December 1st to February 15th.

The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro is offering its Cultural Vibrancy Grant Program to support a community where all residents have access to diverse cultural, educational, and natural resources. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to foster a vibrant culture built upon inclusive community dialogue and civic engagement. The program specifically seeks to bolster cultural vibrancy through strategic funding, aiming to create a more equitable and enriched environment for all residents of Guilford County. The grant program targets students and residents at or below the federal poverty line in Guilford County as primary beneficiaries, with a focus on increasing their access to and appreciation for the arts, cultural opportunities, and natural assets like parks. Beyond this, the program also aims to engage diverse and multi-generational audiences in Guilford County through cultural education and events. The broader impact goal is to deepen understanding and facilitate community engagement among Greensboro's diverse communities and cultures. Key priorities for the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro include investing in cultural education and events that resonate with a wide array of audiences. Furthermore, the foundation emphasizes facilitating dialogue and community engagement to foster deeper understanding among and between the city's diverse communities. The program also prioritizes proposals that demonstrate long-term strategies for advancing and sustaining cultural vibrancy within Guilford County, highlighting a commitment to lasting impact. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in or serving the specified areas, and priority is given to those with long-term strategies. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the expected outcomes involve increased participation in cultural and natural resource activities, enhanced cultural education, and strengthened community cohesion. The foundation's strategic priority is to achieve equity in its grantmaking process, considering board and staff diversity and total operating budget in its review process to ensure broad and inclusive support, regardless of the applicant's budget size.

Mountain BizWorks in North Carolina is offering 20 micro-grants of $2,500 each to startups and emerging businesses owned by historically underrepresented groups, aiming to support their growth and contribution to the local community.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation is offering a grant program aimed at expanding access to mental and behavioral health services and resources for youth. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians by focusing on critical health needs. The program seeks to support models that are effective in the short term (1-3 years) and leverage a trained workforce beyond traditional specialty-trained clinical roles. This strategic approach emphasizes immediate impact and sustainable community engagement, reflecting a theory of change that posits empowering a broader range of professionals will lead to more accessible and responsive mental health support for young people. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are youth in North Carolina, particularly those in communities facing significant barriers to accessing care. The program aims to address the critical need for mental and behavioral health support by increasing the availability of resources and services. Impact goals include fostering early identification of distress, trauma, mental health changes, or substance use among youth, and facilitating their connection to appropriate resources. The foundation prioritizes approaches that engage diverse communities and can operate in various settings, such as communities, schools, health systems, and faith-based organizations. The program's priorities include strengthening organizational capacity and infrastructure, connecting care across different settings, increasing access to training opportunities for a diverse workforce, and enhancing the availability of culturally and linguistically relevant resources and materials. The focus is on a trained workforce that can identify, understand, and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health challenges, providing initial support and resource connection. This strategy aims to create a more integrated and accessible support system for youth mental and behavioral health. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of youth accessing mental and behavioral health services, improved early intervention for mental health concerns, and a more robust network of trained professionals capable of supporting youth. The grant allows for proposals ranging from $75,000 to $500,000 per year for up to three years, indicating a commitment to significant, multi-year projects. Eligible organizations include nonprofits, fiscally sponsored programs, government entities (including schools and tribal governments), and coalitions, fostering a broad and inclusive approach to addressing youth mental health needs across all counties in North Carolina.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in North Carolina that create innovative programs to strengthen local entrepreneurial ecosystems and promote economic growth.

This grant provides financial support to arts and cultural organizations, individual artists, and local schools in Rowan County to enhance access to arts and cultural opportunities.

READY Community Foundations, part of ARC's READY Appalachia initiative, offers no-cost training to community foundations in Appalachia. Participants will build skills in financial management, fundraising, grantmaking, and strategic planning. Eligible foundations can apply for up to $25,000 in funding to implement capacity-building projects post-training. Applications are due by July 5, 2024.