Best Buncombe County Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

Creag Foundation

Up to US $300,000

Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Grants

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation

Unspecified amount

Emergency and Disaster Response Fund Grants

The Emergency and Disaster Response Fund (EDRF) addresses urgent needs in an 18-county area, providing critical support since Hurricane Helene. Over $38 million has been allocated to organizations for emergency relief and recovery services. As the region transitions to long-term recovery, CFWNC reviews grant requests based on community need and available funds, prioritizing areas most affected by the disaster. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, faith-based groups, and public agencies.

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More than US $100,000

Hearst Foundation: Social Service Grant

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

William Randolph Hearst Foundation

More than US $50,000

Michael & Susan Dell Foundation Grants

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Michael & Susan Dell Foundation

Unspecified amount

PNC Foundation: Foundation Grant

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

PNC Foundation

Up to US $7,500

Chattooga Club Scholarship

Applications due Jul 10, 2026

The Chattooga Club Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, aims to support current Club employees in pursuing higher education amidst rising costs. Eligible applicants must be employed at the Club and either be high school seniors or graduates. This initiative enhances educational opportunities for dedicated employees, contributing to their academic and professional growth.

Applications due Oct 2, 2026

Up to US $25,000

Rural Initiative Grant Program

The Rural Initiative Grant Program by the Laura Jane Musser Fund aims to foster collaboration among rural communities in areas like economic development and education. Emphasizing community involvement, it encourages diverse participation and measurable outcomes within 18 months. Grants of up to $25,000 for implementation or $5,000 for planning are available, targeting nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states. This initiative seeks to empower communities to achieve positive change through active engagement and support.

Applications due Oct 8, 2026

Up to US $35,000

Environmental Initiative - Implementation Grant Program

The Laura Jane Musser Fund was established by the estate of Laura Jane Musser of Little Falls, Minnesota to continue the personal philanthropy, which she practiced in her lifetime.

Environmental Initiative Program

The Laura Jane Musser Fund assists public or not-for-profit entities to initiate or implement projects that enhance the ecological integrity of publicly owned open spaces, while encouraging compatible human activities. The Fund’s goal is to promote public use of open space that improves a community’s quality of life and public health, while also ensuring the protection of healthy, viable and sustainable ecosystems by protecting or restoring habitat for a diversity of plant and animal species.

Projects must..

Focus on protecting/restoring a sustainable ecosystem that is a defined, public open space.
Promote public access to and use of the defined open space.
Involve active participation of local community members, with a particular appreciation for volunteer and youth engagement and stakeholder contributions.
Contain measurable outcomes within the first 12-18 months.
Include a plan for the long term financial and environmental sustainability of the proposed program.

Projects during any one grant period will be eligible for either:

implementation grants or
planning grants

Environmental Initiative - Implementation Grant Program

Implementation grant applications must demonstrate clear evidence of local community active participation and support.

Projects will be eligible for either planning or implementation funds during any one grant period.

Applications due Oct 8, 2026

Up to US $8,000

Environmental Initiative- Planning Grants

The Environmental Initiative Grant Program by the Laura Jane Musser Fund aims to support public and nonprofit entities in enhancing the ecological integrity of open spaces. It promotes community involvement in planning and implementing projects that improve quality of life and public health while protecting ecosystems. Grants range from $8,000 for planning to $35,000 for implementation, targeting projects in specific states, fostering sustainability, and ensuring active local participation.

Applications due Oct 15, 2026

Unspecified amount

Robinson Foundation Grant

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Robinson Foundation

Unspecified amount

Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant

Applications due Oct 31, 2026

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Dudley T Dougherty Foundation Inc

Unspecified amount

TJX Foundation Grants

Letter of inquiry due Oct 31, 2026

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Tjx Foundation Inc

US $5,000 - US $10,000

Lawrence Foundation Grant

Applications due Nov 1, 2026

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

Lawrence Foundation

US $1,000 - US $20,000

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation Grant

Applications due Nov 11, 2026

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation

US $90,000 - US $180,000

Melvin R. Lane Fund

Letter of inquiry due Jan 8, 2027

The Melvin R. Lane Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, aims to empower nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to individuals in need. Grants ranging from $90,000 to $180,000 are available over three years to help improve operations, develop partnerships, and ensure financial stability. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities with at least three years of operation, located in specific WNC counties, and have an operating budget of over $100,000.

Applications due Jan 16, 2027

US $2,000

Harry W. Clarke Memorial Scholarship Programs – Harry W. Clarke Award

The Harry W. Clarke Award honors the legacy of Harry Wilson Clarke, a pivotal figure in educational advancement in Western North Carolina. Established in 1987, this scholarship supports graduating seniors from 29 counties, including the Qualla Boundary, who aspire to attend a four-year college in North Carolina. With a commitment to fostering local talent, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina has awarded over $456 million in scholarships, reflecting its dedication to educational opportunities in the region.

Applications due Jan 16, 2027

US $1,000

Harry W. Clarke Memorial Scholarship Programs – William A. Hart Award

The Harry W. Clarke Memorial Scholarship Programs, established by friends to honor Harry Clarke's commitment to education, offers renewable scholarships for graduating seniors from public high schools in 29 westernmost counties of North Carolina. This initiative promotes access to accredited two-year community colleges for students, including those from specific academies and home schools. The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, established in 1978, manages substantial assets to support educational opportunities and charitable endeavors in the region.

Applications due Jan 16, 2027

US $5,000

Rotary Club of Asheville Harry R. Morrill Scholarship

The Rotary Club of Asheville Harry R. Morrill Scholarship supports high school seniors in Buncombe County pursuing higher education. Established by the Rotary Club, it aims to assist meritorious students demonstrating academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Eligible candidates include those from local public, private, and homeschool settings. The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, a nonprofit organization, manages this scholarship to enhance educational opportunities and foster a commitment to learning among youth in the region.

Applications due Feb 20, 2027

Up to US $4,054,185

Early Childhood Education and Development Fund Grants

Purpose

The purpose of the Early Childhood Education and Development Fund is to ensure that every child in Buncombe County has an equal opportunity to thrive during their first 2,000 days, including access to quality early childhood education. The Fund was established in response to a well-documented local shortage of quality early childhood education programs, barriers that families face in accessing existing programs, including affordability, and a well-documented shortage of qualified teachers and staff in classrooms and centers.

Funding

Grants may be awarded up to the total amount of $4,054,185, the anticipated budget for the Early Childhood Education and Development Fund for FY2027 (subject to budget adoption). On October 30, 2018, the Board of Commissioners for Buncombe County voted to create the Early Childhood Education and Development fund for the purpose of annually investing $3.6 million beginning in the FY2020 budget with an annual increase of 2% in future years.

Funding is earmarked to support early care and education for children birth through kindergarten. This includes the following categories:

infants/toddlers – ages six (6) weeks to three (3) years old
preschoolers – ages three (3) to five (5) years old
pre-kindergarteners (pre-k) – 4 year old rising kindergarteners (4 years old by August 31st)

County Of Buncombe

US $4,000

Asheville Wilbert Vault Service Scholarship

Applications due Feb 27, 2027

The Asheville Wilbert Vault Service Scholarship, established by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, offers financial aid to residents pursuing a career in funeral services. This scholarship is aimed at individuals from the 18 westernmost counties of North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. Eligible applicants must be seniors in secondary school or graduates and can apply funds to any relevant post-high school educational program. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to supporting local communities.

Applications due Feb 27, 2027

Unspecified amount

Home & Community Care Block Grant/Aging Services Funding

The Home & Community Care Block Grant aims to support individuals aged 60 and over, promoting their independence and protection. Funded through the Older Americans Act, this program addresses vital needs such as preventing elder abuse, enhancing health and well-being, and increasing access to services and transportation. The Buncombe County Advisory Committee considers local Age-Friendly Action Plan goals when making funding decisions, ensuring that essential community-based services are supported.

County Of Buncombe

Up to US $12,000

Rural Arts Initiative Grant Program

Applications due Mar 6, 2027

The Rural Arts Initiative Grant Program, established by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations in rural communities. The program encourages access to the arts through scholarships, community engagement, and innovative activities. Priority is given to organizations located in areas with populations under 20,000, ensuring that artistic opportunities are available to both adults and children. Applications are accepted for one year of funding, with potential for up to three consecutive years.

Applications due Apr 1, 2027

US $2,500 - US $12,500

Ramble Charitable Fund Grant

The Ramble Charitable Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Buncombe County by supporting projects in education, economic development, and health care. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 for nonprofit organizations and public agencies. Priority is given to initiatives that provide substantial community benefits, with a focus on the Shiloh and South Buncombe areas. Projects must be completed within a year, and only one application per eligible organization is allowed annually.

Pre proposal due Apr 16, 2027

Up to US $1,000,000

North Carolina Appalachian Regional Commission Funds

The North Carolina Appalachian Regional Commission Funds support economic development across 13 states, focusing on infrastructure, workforce, and community resilience. Administered by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the program prioritizes projects that enhance local economies, particularly in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. Funding caps are set at $700,000 for construction and $300,000 for non-construction projects, with special considerations for distressed counties and workforce development initiatives.

North Carolina Department of Commerce

US $30,000 - US $350,000

True Inspiration Awards

Applications due May 1, 2027

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Chick Fil A Foundation Inc

Up to US $5,000

Mary R. Hemphill Scholarship

Applications due Jun 5, 2027

The Mary R. Hemphill Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, supports Buncombe, Madison, and McDowell High School graduates pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. This renewable scholarship aims to assist students with a passion for animals, particularly those interested in large animal care. With a rich history of charitable contributions, the Foundation has awarded over $456 million in scholarships, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region.