North Carolina Local Grants

The Orange County Arts Commission (OCAC) is currently accepting applications for its 2024-25 Grassroots Arts Program. This grant program is designed to fund quality arts programs and support the operations of arts organizations within Orange County, North Carolina. The OCAC's mission, though not explicitly stated in detail, is clearly aligned with fostering and sustaining a vibrant arts community through financial support. The Grassroots Arts Program serves as a direct mechanism to achieve this by providing essential funding that might otherwise be unavailable to smaller arts initiatives and organizations. The target beneficiaries of this program are nonprofit arts organizations or organizations with a nonprofit sponsor that have been in operation for at least one year and are physically located in Orange County. Individual artists are not eligible. The program aims to impact the arts landscape of Orange County by enabling organizations to conduct diverse arts programs and maintain their operational capacity. This includes supporting both program-related expenses, such as artist fees, marketing, and equipment rental, and operating expenses like salaries, rent, and utilities for qualifying organizations. The program prioritizes both the direct delivery of arts programs and the sustainable operation of arts and cultural organizations. For program-related requests, a maximum limit of $5,000 is set, emphasizing support for specific artistic endeavors. Similarly, operating expense requests also have a maximum limit of $5,000 and are specifically for organizations with an arts-based mission and an annual operating budget of less than $2 million, and who are not already receiving operating support from the N.C. Arts Council or N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. This focus ensures that the grant effectively reaches smaller, local organizations that may have limited access to other significant funding sources. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and quality of arts programs available to the residents of Orange County, as well as the strengthened operational stability of local arts organizations. Measurable results would be evidenced by the successful execution of funded projects between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, and the continued operation of arts organizations that receive support for their operational costs. While a formal "theory of change" is not detailed, the underlying strategy is to provide accessible, targeted financial aid to nurture the arts at a local, grassroots level, thereby enhancing the cultural richness and accessibility of the arts within the community. The grant size, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, and a duration of one year, suggests a focus on impactful, yet often smaller-scale, initiatives and operational needs.

The City of Salisbury in North Carolina is inviting eligible non-profit organizations to apply for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Service, offering $1,000 to $10,000 to support work benefiting low-moderate income individuals and families in Salisbury, with applications due by October 14, 2024.

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) aims to provide financial assistance for major tourism capital projects. Its core mission is to increase patronage of lodging properties and further economic development within Buncombe County. The fund aligns with the broader goal of fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the region as a desirable destination. The target beneficiaries of the TPDF are non-profit organizations and government entities that develop major tourism capital projects. The impact goals are to create jobs, foster entrepreneurial opportunities, provide amenities for both residents and visitors, and ultimately increase overnight lodging stays in Buncombe County. Projects that directly increase lodging stays or support larger initiatives to do so are evaluated equally. The TPDF prioritizes capital investments, focusing on "brick and mortar" projects. Operational expenses are not considered for funding, though design fees already expended can count towards the required 1-to-1 funding match. Projects must be principally located in Buncombe County, demonstrate the ability to increase lodging patronage, and not solely benefit a single lodging owner or property. Applicants must also have legal control of the property and show how they will achieve a minimum 1-to-1 funding match. Expected outcomes include enhanced financial stability for requesting organizations, successful and sustainable project operations, and effective sales and marketing plans that draw visitation. The TPDF also seeks projects that differentiate the destination through brand alignment, uniqueness, and innovation, and those that promote the local creative sector. Measurable results are assessed by the ratio of overnight lodging generated to funding requested, and the project's ability to create new and incremental room nights, not just pull from existing visitors. Furthermore, the TPDF aligns with BCTDA’s strategic imperatives to deliver balanced recovery and sustainable growth by distributing visitors geographically and seasonally. Projects that encourage safe and responsible travel, and those that support engagement with and appeal to more diverse audiences, receive greater consideration. The overarching theory of change is that strategic capital investments in tourism infrastructure will lead to increased visitor numbers, economic benefits, and a more vibrant community, all while ensuring sustainable and equitable development.

The City of Salisbury is offering a neighborhood beautification grant of $1000 to $10,000, prioritizing projects that enhance visibility, utilize quality materials, introduce new amenities, and add lasting value to the neighborhood, with applications due by 09/30/2024.

The Arts Council of Moore County (ACMC) offers a grant program aimed at supporting arts projects within Moore County, North Carolina. This grant seeks to provide funds for both new arts initiatives and general operating expenses for eligible organizations. The ACMC's mission aligns with fostering artistic endeavors and cultural enrichment by empowering local groups to implement diverse arts programs that benefit the community. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are nonprofit organizations with 501(c)3 status, or those utilizing a fiscal agent, as well as schools within Moore County. While individual artists are not directly eligible for these Grassroots Arts funds, they may apply for an Artists Support Grant. The impact goal is to strengthen the arts infrastructure in Moore County by supporting a variety of artistic expressions and making them accessible to the community. The grant prioritizes projects in focus areas such as performances, festivals, art exhibitions, after-school arts programs, arts camps, artist residencies, and artist fees for classes and workshops. It also supports marketing expenses, royalties, props, sets, costumes, and equipment rental for theatre performances. These focuses are designed to ensure a broad spectrum of artistic activities are supported, reflecting a strategic priority to cultivate a vibrant and diverse arts scene. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and quality of arts events and programs in Moore County, greater community engagement with the arts, and enhanced support for local artists and arts organizations. Measurable results could include the number of performances held, participants in workshops, and attendance at festivals and exhibitions. The ACMC's theory of change posits that by providing financial support for these initiatives, it can directly contribute to the cultural vitality and educational enrichment of Moore County.

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.

The Alexander County Economic Development Corporation is offering grants of $1,000 to $5,000, funded by the Duke Energy Foundation, to businesses in Alexander County, North Carolina, for projects aimed at enhancing physical spaces, e-commerce, service delivery, equipment purchase, ADA accessibility, and public health compliance, with a special focus on fostering entrepreneurship and expanding childcare centers.

The Town of Matthews Tourism Grant Program offers financial assistance to organizations that host events or programs aimed at boosting visitation and tourism within Matthews. This initiative directly aligns with the town's mission to enhance local economic activity and showcase Matthews as a desirable destination. The grant is specifically funded by tourism-related taxes, including hotel occupancy, prepared food and beverage, and car rental taxes, ensuring that the program's funding mechanism is directly tied to its mission of promoting tourism. The primary beneficiaries of this program are non-profit organizations capable of delivering events or programs that effectively attract visitors to Matthews. The overarching impact goal is to increase tourism and visitation, which in turn supports local businesses and generates revenue for the town. The program prioritizes projects with short-term and/or long-term potential for attracting visitors, ensuring a sustainable impact on the town's tourism landscape. Key focuses for successful applications include demonstrating a clear goal of promoting tourism and visitation to Matthews, as well as outlining how the proposed program will achieve this. Eligibility criteria emphasize that organizations must hold current non-profit status and that their programs must take place between July 1, 2024, and June 13, 2025. This timeframe allows for the support of both upcoming and recently concluded initiatives that meet the program's objectives. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of visitors to Matthews and the successful execution of tourism-promoting events and programs. Measurable results will be assessed through mandatory post-project reports submitted by grant recipients. These reports will likely detail attendance, visitor origin, economic impact, and other relevant metrics, providing data to evaluate the program's effectiveness. Any unspent grant funding must be returned by June 30, 2025, ensuring accountability and efficient use of public funds. The program’s strategic priority is to leverage local events and programs as catalysts for sustained tourism growth, aligning with a theory of change where targeted financial support for tourism initiatives directly translates into increased visitor numbers and economic benefits for the community.

This program recognizes and rewards individuals, organizations, and students in Raleigh for their outstanding efforts in environmental stewardship, sustainability, and climate action.

The Artist Support Grant, administered by the Stokes County Arts Council, directly supports individual artists in North Carolina for professional and artistic development. This includes enhancing their skills, improving their ability to create work, and bolstering their business operations to reach wider audiences. The grant's mission aligns with fostering artistic growth and making art accessible, providing vital resources to artists across various disciplines within specific regions of the state. The primary target beneficiaries are individual visual, performing, literary, and interdisciplinary artists, encompassing both emerging and established talents. The program also extends eligibility to small, unincorporated groups of collaborating artists, provided all members meet residency and age requirements. The impact goal is to cultivate a vibrant artistic community by empowering artists to develop their craft and expand their professional reach, thereby enriching the cultural landscape of North Carolina. The grant prioritizes artists who demonstrate a significant commitment to their artistic practice. Eligibility criteria emphasize North Carolina residency within the specific applying region for at least one year, and applicants must be at least 18 years old and either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This focus ensures that the support directly benefits local artists who are dedicated to their work and contribute to their regional artistic ecosystems. Expected outcomes include enhanced artistic skills, increased production of high-quality artwork, and improved business acumen among artists, leading to greater audience engagement and career sustainability. Measurable results could include the number of artists served, the amount of funding distributed, the types of artistic projects undertaken, and the increased visibility of local artists' work. The program’s strategic priority is to strengthen the individual artist's capacity, operating on the theory of change that by investing directly in artists' development, there will be a ripple effect that elevates the entire artistic community and cultural economy of the state. The grant provides funding ranging from $500 to $1,500, with an application deadline of September 13, 2024. This financial support is crucial for artists to pursue professional development opportunities, acquire necessary materials, or invest in marketing and distribution of their work. The regional structure, including specific counties in Regions 2, 10, 14, and 16, ensures that support is distributed geographically, fostering artistic talent in various communities across North Carolina.

The Municipal Service District Grant Program, offered by the City of Salisbury, provides financial assistance to commercial property owners and building tenants. This initiative aims to enhance building facades, landscapes, and parking lots, as well as facilitate the installation of new pedestrian elements within the Downtown Municipal Service District. The program's core mission aligns with urban revitalization and fostering a more attractive and pedestrian-friendly environment, contributing to the overall economic vitality and aesthetic appeal of the city center. The primary beneficiaries of this program are commercial property owners and business tenants operating within the Downtown Municipal Service District. The impact goals are to encourage significant improvements ranging from minor repairs and repainting to substantial rehabilitation projects. This includes the introduction of new pedestrian amenities, restoration of storefronts, and overall beautification, ultimately leading to an improved urban experience for residents and visitors alike. The program prioritizes a diverse range of projects designed to significantly enhance the public and commercial spaces. Key focus areas include the installation of new pedestrian amenities such as outdoor seating, planters, awnings, café fences, lighting, bicycle racks, and art. It also supports the installation of new façade elements (signage, lighting, awnings), painting of murals, ghost sign restoration, storefront rehabilitation, removal of false façades, and repairs to windows, doors, and architectural details. Furthermore, the program encourages green building improvements like solar panels, EV charging stations, green roofs, and white roofs, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a noticeable increase in the aesthetic quality and functionality of the downtown area. The 50/50 matching grant, with a maximum City participation of $5,000, ensures a shared investment and commitment to these enhancements. Success will be measured by the number and scope of completed projects, the visible improvements in building facades and public spaces, and the increased presence of pedestrian-friendly amenities, all contributing to a more vibrant and appealing urban core. The City of Salisbury's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this grant, center on enhancing the municipal service district through tangible improvements that benefit both businesses and the community. The theory of change suggests that by investing in the physical environment of the downtown area, the city will stimulate economic activity, improve quality of life, and strengthen community pride. This grant acts as a catalyst for private investment, aligning with a broader vision of sustainable urban development and community engagement.

The Creative Economy Fund, formerly known as the Creative Industries Incentive Fund, is an initiative by the City of San José Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA) in partnership with the Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI). CCI is a nonprofit intermediary dedicated to the economic security of individuals in the arts. The fund awards project grants to arts, cultural, and creative-based commercial businesses located within the City of San José. These businesses can be involved in the production or distribution of the arts, encompassing manufacturers, service providers, presenters, and designers. The program's mission is aligned with enhancing San José’s creative economy and bolstering the growth and financial resilience of small arts, cultural, and creative-based businesses, as well as providing financial support to artists and creative entrepreneurs across all disciplines, both non-commercial and commercial. The primary target beneficiaries of the Creative Economy Fund are commercial enterprises, including small businesses (defined as those with 35 employees or less by the City of San José) and sole proprietorships. These businesses must be based in San José and primarily provide a cultural, creative, or arts-related service or product. They must also be in good standing with the City of San José, holding an active business tax certificate. The fund explicitly supports projects and activities aimed at building successful arts, cultural, and creative-based small businesses, fostering economic stability and growth within the creative sector. For the 2024 grantmaking round, a total of $40,000 is available, with grants of up to $8,000 awarded through a competitive application process. The program prioritizes applicants who contribute to the city’s cultural vibrancy, demonstrate readiness for project implementation, and show potential for growth and greater financial resilience. A key focus is on demonstrating economic impact, such as attracting visitors, generating sales tax, and creating jobs within San José. Competitive applicants are also expected to reflect the City’s diverse cultural communities and creative-based commercial landscape, ensuring equitable and inclusive support for the creative sector. The expected outcomes and measurable results include enhancing the creative economy, increasing the growth and financial resilience of small arts, cultural, and creative-based businesses, and providing financial support to artists and creative entrepreneurs. The period of support for projects is from September 2024 to September 2025. The fund's strategic priorities are to strengthen the economic foundation of San José's creative sector, facilitate business development, and promote cultural vibrancy. The theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial support and capacity building to creative businesses and entrepreneurs, the fund will stimulate local economic activity, create jobs, and enrich the cultural landscape of San José, ultimately leading to a more robust and resilient creative economy.

The purpose of the Rowan Chamber’s Small Business Assistance Grant pilot program is to strengthen and grow established businesses within the City of Salisbury. By making these grants available, the Chamber is fulfilling its mission of driving economic stability, diversity, and growth in our community. Accessibility to funding contributes to the strength and effectiveness of the entrepreneurial ecosystem which in turn supports and nurtures small businesses. The Chamber recognizes the value of entrepreneurism/small businesses who bring innovation, quality of life, jobs, and investment to the community. Businesses who receive funding through this program will be those who bring innovation and therefore have a unique competitive edge. They must be good corporate citizens and are encouraged to support their employees and other locally owned businesses. Applicants are not required to be Rowan Chamber investors (members) in order to participate. Since the funding is coming from the City of Salisbury, applicants must operate their business within the City of Salisbury limits. Since there are already a number of downtown business grants, this small business grant is designed to focus on priority corridors outside of downtown, for example: West End, South Main St. & West Innes St. Small business grant overview: Businesses located in City of Salisbury limits with 10 or fewer employees (or full time equivalent). They must be a legal entity and registered with the NC Secretary of State and have appropriate permits to operate. They must submit a quality business plan (FREE assistance available from RCCC Small Business Center) Grant funds may be used for a fixed asset utilized for the business or permanent improvements to physical space (examples: manufacturing equipment, lawnmower, vacuum cleaner, building signage, lighting, awnings, flooring) Grant funds may NOT be used for ongoing operational expenses (examples: rent, utilities, salaries, financing debt, inventory, memberships, legal fees) Grant requests may range from $5,000 – $10,000.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in New Hanover County that align their initiatives with the county's strategic goals and enhance community services.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit arts organizations in New Hanover County to enhance community arts experiences through operational and programming initiatives.

This funding opportunity is designed to support nonprofit organizations and community-based entities in Fayetteville, North Carolina, that are working to reduce opioid overdoses and improve health outcomes through various evidence-based programs and services.

This grant provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations in Holly Springs to help them carry out community-focused activities that align with the town's strategic priorities.

This funding opportunity is designed to support non-profit organizations in Fayetteville that provide essential services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless, focusing on emergency shelter, street outreach, and housing stability.

Arts Davidson County, in partnership with the North Carolina Arts Council, is offering the Grassroots Arts Program to provide subgrants to local organizations for arts programs within Davidson County. This program aligns with the mission to foster and support quality arts initiatives and organizations at the local level. The grant is designed to support a variety of arts-related expenditures, contributing to a vibrant cultural landscape within the county. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are qualified arts organizations not already receiving or eligible for support from the N.C. Arts Council. This includes a broad spectrum of groups such as theaters, symphonies, galleries, art guilds, choral societies, dance companies, folk arts societies, writers’ groups, and arts festivals. The program also supports qualified artists conducting arts learning and arts in education programs, as well as community, civic, and municipal organizations that involve qualified artists in their programming. The impact goal is to strengthen local arts infrastructure and expand access to arts education and experiences for residents of Davidson County. The program has distinct priorities. The first priority is to offer operating or program support to qualified arts organizations that are not otherwise funded by the N.C. Arts Council. The second priority is to back arts learning and arts in education programs, which can manifest as artist residencies in schools, after-school or summer camps, or adult arts learning classes. The third priority extends support to community, civic, and municipal organizations for programs led by qualified artists. These priorities aim to ensure comprehensive support across the arts sector in the county. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and quality of arts programs offered locally, enhanced operational stability for arts organizations, and greater community engagement with the arts. Measurable results could include the number of organizations receiving grants, the types and number of programs funded, the number of participants in arts learning programs, and the overall reach of funded projects within the community. Projects must take place between July 1, 2024, and June 15, 2025, allowing for a clear timeframe for impact assessment. While specific strategic priorities or a theory of change for "Arts Davidson County" are not explicitly detailed as a separate section within the provided text, the Grassroots Arts Program itself embodies a theory of change: by providing financial support to local arts organizations and programs, Arts Davidson County believes it can cultivate a thriving arts community, increase public access to diverse artistic expressions, and enhance the overall cultural well-being of Davidson County. This approach suggests a belief that direct funding at the grassroots level is a powerful catalyst for local arts development and community enrichment.

The Community Foundation for Randolph County (CFRC) is currently accepting grant applications from qualified charitable organizations, aiming to support a broad spectrum of local needs. This grantmaking program aligns with CFRC's mission to enhance the well-being of the Randolph County community by funding initiatives in human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts. Grants will be disbursed from both the general community grantmaking fund and the Randolph Health Community Foundation Endowment, with the latter specifically dedicated to health-related programs serving Randolph County. The primary target beneficiaries of these grants are residents of Randolph County, particularly those served by 501(c)(3) non-profits, organizations with fiscal agents, local governments, fire and rescue departments, and religious entities engaged in social outreach and charitable services. The impact goal is to address a wide range of community challenges and improve the quality of life for local residents. The program prioritizes organizations that serve counties within CFRC's affiliate network and offer programs and services without discrimination based on age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious belief. The program's focus areas are diverse, encompassing human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts. Within the health sector, particular emphasis is placed on programs supported by the Randolph Health Community Foundation Endowment. The foundation's strategic priority is to respond to identified local needs through a flexible and responsive grantmaking approach, empowering local organizations to implement effective solutions. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the expected outcomes include improved access to vital services, enhanced educational opportunities, increased youth engagement, better health outcomes, reduced food insecurity, and a more vibrant arts community within Randolph County. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in a diverse array of community-based initiatives, it can foster a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community for all residents. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, providing accessible funding for a variety of projects.