Best Cary Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The Lisa Libraries Book Grants provide essential resources to organizations in low-income or underserved areas, enabling them to establish or enhance small libraries. Founded in 1990 to honor children's book editor Lisa Novak, the initiative has donated over one million books to help children gain access to literature. If your organization serves children in need of books, consider applying for support to create a nurturing reading environment.

The Oriental Trading Company Corporate Giving Program focuses on enhancing the lives of children through education, youth programming, healthcare, and human services. With a commitment to making the world a better place, they support organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or public educational institutions. Their initiatives aim to foster community partnerships and provide essential resources to youth in need, ensuring they have access to vital services and opportunities for growth.

The DAR Historic Preservation Grants, offered by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, provide $250,000 annually to support projects that preserve historic resources and sites. Eligible applicants must secure additional funding and adhere to preservation guidelines. Projects must recognize DAR's contribution publicly and can include restoration, digitization, and conservation efforts. Preference is given to projects reflecting Colonial to Federal periods, fostering a deep appreciation for American history.

The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation Grant supports innovative projects at the intersection of arts, education, and wellness. It aims to empower organizations that address critical community issues and foster sustainable models for change, particularly in Florida. The foundation encourages collaboration and seeks initiatives that create a ripple effect, enhancing community capacity and promoting impactful solutions. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) entities in the U.S. focusing on community betterment through creative approaches.

The George Family Foundation's Youth Development Grant aims to empower youth from under-resourced communities by supporting initiatives that foster personal growth, educational enrichment, and workplace learning. By encouraging diverse interactions and community service, the foundation seeks to provide young people with the tools to thrive and positively impact their communities. Although unsolicited proposals are not accepted, Letters of Inquiry are welcomed during specific review periods.

Feld Entertainment's Charitable Contributions aim to support children in need through various initiatives. Their donations have significantly impacted organizations like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. They offer cash and in-kind contributions to help underserved communities, providing tickets to nonprofit youth organizations and funding educational programs in the performing arts. Employees are encouraged to engage in local charity events, reinforcing the company's commitment to making a difference in the communities they serve.

Radio Flyer is dedicated to supporting organizations that promote outdoor play and well-being for children. They focus on charitable giving to national organizations like The Starlight Children’s Foundation, which aids children’s health, and partner with KaBOOM! to build playgrounds for underprivileged kids. Local nonprofits in the Chicagoland area are also supported, emphasizing education and health for children up to eight years old. This mission aligns with their goal of creating smiles and lasting memories through play.

The WASPC Traffic Safety Grants provide funding for law enforcement agencies to enhance traffic safety initiatives. Agencies can apply for specific traffic safety supplies, including lidar and radars, with maximum award amounts clearly outlined. Eligible applicants must demonstrate participation in statewide traffic initiatives, while ineligible requests include those for replacing existing equipment. This funding aims to prioritize traffic safety enforcement and improve community safety through targeted efforts.

The Economic Catalyst Grant Program, administered by The Golden LEAF Foundation, supports economic development projects aimed at job creation in tobacco-dependent and economically distressed areas. Grants are available to eligible governmental entities and nonprofit organizations, focusing on projects that can show job creation is at risk without funding. Competitive applications must demonstrate urgency and secure local support, with funding allocated for training, infrastructure, and job-related equipment, ensuring sustainable employment outcomes.

The Willis C. Helm Charitable Trust, established in 1954, focuses on supporting organizations that work on juvenile delinquency and the development of boys from broken homes. It provides annual grants averaging between $5,000 and $15,000, with a total giving of around $60,000 for five grants each year. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and preferably located in Minnesota. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of March 31 for annual review.

The Community Collaborative Research Grant Program (CCRG), supported by North Carolina Sea Grant and the William R. Kenan Jr. Institute, aims to address coastal issues through collaborative research. Proposals should engage local knowledge experts alongside scientific leaders, focusing on themes like healthy ecosystems and sustainable fisheries. Projects that benefit rural and underserved communities are prioritized. Awards range from $5,000 to $25,000, with an emphasis on developing tools for resource management and enhancing community engagement.

The Duke Endowment's Child and Family Well-Being Grant provides implementation support to public and private agencies in North and South Carolina. This funding aims to adopt and sustain evidence-based programs that prevent and treat child maltreatment. Eligible organizations must have two years of audited financial statements and work with accredited groups. The grant prioritizes innovative solutions and advocacy to improve child welfare systems, ensuring effective support for children and families at risk.

The Duke Endowment's Rural Church Grants aim to empower rural United Methodist Churches in North Carolina to effectively respond to changing community demographics. By providing resources and fostering collaboration among church leaders, the program enhances congregational capacity and community engagement. Key strategies include supporting pastoral leaders, reimagining church real estate for community use, and implementing impactful programs, especially for children. This initiative reflects a commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities across diverse rural populations.

The Utility Arborist Research Fund Grant Program, managed by the TREE Fund and UAA, offers $50,000 in funding for 2024 to support vital research in utility tree care. The program prioritizes proposals focusing on employee safety, service reliability, and regulatory compliance. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000, with the aim of addressing pressing issues in vegetation management. Applications are welcomed from those aligned with these priorities, promoting safety and efficiency in the utility industry.

The Safe Arborist Techniques Fund Grant Program, established by the Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund and the International Society of Arboriculture, aims to enhance worker safety in arboriculture through research and development. Grants focus on biomechanics and tree failure mechanisms, supporting innovative practices that protect both workers and the community. Proposals are evaluated on their potential impact, scientific rigor, and the experience of the investigative team, ensuring they align with the mission of the TREE Fund.

The Bob Skiera Memorial Fund Building Bridges Initiative Grant Program supports urban forestry research and collaboration. With a maximum award of $30,000, it aims to enhance communication between arborists, urban foresters, and various professionals. The program welcomes proposals that explore the benefits of urban forests, policy implementation, and ecosystem services. This initiative honors Bob Skiera's legacy, fostering trust and cooperation within the urban planning community for sustainable urban forestry practices.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.

The USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council (USADPLC) invites research proposals for pulse crops, focusing on breeding, nutrition, crop management, and product development for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Projects should adopt a transdisciplinary approach to tackle complex challenges, with average awards around $30,000. Researchers are encouraged to leverage industry funding for matching grants. Note that equipment purchases over $10,000 are not eligible. Compliance with specific proposal guidelines is essential.

The Bigglesworth Family Foundation's Access Grants aim to strengthen nonprofit organizations in delivering essential legal services to underserved communities. Ranging from $1,000 to $3,500, these grants provide access to critical tools and resources. The application process is streamlined, ensuring a review within 30 days, with a limit of two applications per organization annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on legal services, as applications outside this area will not be considered.

The Bigglesworth Family Foundation's Legal Services Program supports innovative projects aimed at enhancing legal aid effectiveness. Originating post-2008 financial crisis, this initiative helps non-profits combat poverty through legal assistance, targeting both individual organizations and the broader sector. Grants include I&R projects for testing new models and sector support for organizations providing technical assistance. Eligibility is primarily for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities, with specific limitations on budget sizes and project types.

The Cat Enrichment Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation, provides funding ranging from $100 to $1000 to enhance the well-being of adoptable cats. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, supporting initiatives like interactive activities and safe outdoor experiences. This program aims to ensure that every cat remains happy and healthy while waiting for a forever home, ultimately increasing their chances of adoption.

The Creating New Economies Fund (CNEF) Grant offers support for innovative projects that enhance community resources in rural areas. Funded by The Conservation Fund, the program has awarded over $6.8 million since 2001, fostering eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and more. Grants, averaging between $8,000 and $12,000, focus on engaging local communities, particularly marginalized groups, and addressing root causes of challenges like poverty and environmental issues. Applicants must consult with Resourceful Communities before applying.

Mary's Pence Grants provide essential funding and support for women's social justice organizations in the U.S. and Canada. Established over 30 years ago, the program is dedicated to empowering women on the margins by funding grassroots initiatives that focus on community-centered, sustainable change. Organizations with budgets under $200,000 are eligible to apply for grants up to $5,000, fostering relationships and collaborative efforts to address systemic issues and promote social justice.

The Pilcrow Foundation offers matching grants to rural public libraries for acquiring new, quality children's books. Libraries can receive up to $1,200 in funding by contributing $200-$400 through local sponsorships. Eligible libraries include independent rural and Native American Tribal libraries, with a focus on those serving communities with populations under 10,000. The initiative supports libraries in rural areas of the U.S. to enhance their children's book collections and promote literacy.

Hydro Flask's Parks for All Grants offer product donations to U.S. non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to enhancing public green spaces and recreational areas. Since its founding in 2009, Hydro Flask has supported initiatives that promote inclusivity and active lifestyles. Organizations can apply for donations in specified quantities, with applications reviewed in January and notifications sent in February. This initiative aims to foster healthier and happier communities through improved access to parks.

The Voya Unsung Heroes Awards Program supports educators with innovative class projects that enhance student learning. Annually, 50 selected educators receive $2,000 each, with three top awards of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000. This initiative, backed by Voya Financial, aims to empower teachers in accredited K-12 schools across the U.S. to transform their ideas into impactful educational experiences, fostering creativity and engagement in the classroom.

The Hillman Emergent Innovation Grant supports innovative, nursing-driven solutions aimed at enhancing health equity for marginalized groups, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others facing healthcare barriers. This program encourages transformative proposals that challenge traditional care strategies, demonstrate best-in-class potential, and showcase scalability. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, government entities, and faith-based organizations that adhere to inclusive practices. Priority is given to proposals fostering community engagement and measurable outcomes.