Best Catawba County Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The Underdown Family Foundation, established in 1993, supports nonprofit organizations that enhance the Hickory, NC community. The foundation prioritizes education, health, human services, and faith-based initiatives. It seeks to empower local organizations while also contributing to research on significant diseases. By focusing on community needs, the foundation aims to make a lasting impact both regionally and nationally, promoting well-being and societal benefit.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

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North Carolina Department of Commerce

Our mission is to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for all North Carolinians.

To do that, the North Carolina Department of Commerce works closely with local, regional, national and international organizations to propel economic, community and workforce development for the state.

Community Development Block Grant Neighborhood Revitalization Program (CDBG-NR)

The Community Development Block Grant Neighborhood Revitalization Program (CDBG-NR) will offer a non-entitlement municipality or county the opportunity to tailor a project to meet the housing and community development needs specific and most critical to their locality. The CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Program incorporates several previous Rural Economic Development Division (REDD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs and activities such as Scattered Site Housing and Supportive Housing.

The CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Program will support the three livability principles that help guide sustainability and resiliency throughout areas that receive funding. Regardless of the program activity or activities local governments pursue, CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Program projects must incorporate at least one of the following three livability principles as an area of focus:

NC Neighborhood Revitalization 3 Livability Principles

• Promote equitable, affordable housing. Expand location and energy-efficient housing choices for people of all ages, incomes, races, and ethnicities to increase mobility and lower the combined cost of housing and transportation.

• Support existing communities. Target federal funding toward existing communities - through strategies like transit-oriented, mixed-use development, and land recycling - to increase community revitalization and the efficiency of public works investments and safeguard rural landscapes.

• Value communities and neighborhoods. Enhance the unique characteristics of all communities by investing in healthy, safe, and walkable neighborhoods - rural, urban, or suburban.

The Bright Ideas Education Grants program, supported by North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, empowers K-12 teachers to implement innovative projects in classrooms. With applications open from April to September, educators can seek funding for creative learning initiatives. Annually, around 600 grants are awarded, enhancing educational experiences across diverse disciplines. This initiative not only enriches classroom instruction but also strengthens community ties, demonstrating the cooperatives' commitment to improving quality of life for local students.

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.

The Duke Energy Foundation provides Local Impact Grants to strengthen communities in North Carolina, offering up to $20,000 for various initiatives. These include workforce development, climate resiliency projects, and promoting inclusivity. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, serve Duke Energy communities, and demonstrate measurable impacts. The Foundation prioritizes grants that support economic recovery, environmental conservation, and equitable access to opportunities, thus fostering sustainable growth and resilience across the state.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

The Refugee Support Services Grant aims to provide essential services to refugees and other eligible populations in North Carolina, ensuring their self-sufficiency, stability, and integration. This funding opportunity, administered by the NC Department of Health and Human Services, offers resources for social adjustment, education, training, and employment services. It seeks to address barriers faced by refugees and promote positive outcomes for individuals and families, enhancing community welfare and successful resettlement.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) offers federal funding for security enhancements to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in high-risk areas, such as the Charlotte Area in North Carolina. With a focus on target hardening, organizations can apply for up to $150,000 per site to strengthen their defenses against potential terrorist threats. This program aims to integrate nonprofit security efforts with state and local preparedness initiatives, fostering collaboration among community and government entities.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The CALT Black Appalachian Storytellers Fellowship, supported by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, celebrates and preserves the rich traditions of Black Appalachian storytelling. This fellowship honors those who embody the history and culture of African Americans in the region. Each year, fellows are recognized at the National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference, receiving awards crafted by Dr. Dena Jennings. The program fosters a deeper understanding of these traditions and invites fellows to share their stories at future events.

The Piedmont Natural Gas Company Grant Program, part of the Duke Energy Foundation, supports community vitality through grants of $20,000 or less. Focus areas include vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and promoting opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and serve communities without discrimination. The foundation prioritizes measurable community impact and does not fund certain entities, including for-profits and religious organizations. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis.

The Heritage Home Group Charitable Trust, established in 1960, focuses on enhancing community resilience in North Carolina through strategic funding in areas such as financial mobility, housing access, and small business growth. With a commitment to arts, education, health, and human services, the Trust supports organizations that are tax-exempt and demonstrate fiscal stability. Funding is not available for individuals or political activities, ensuring resources are allocated to meaningful community needs.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The Corning Nonprofit Grants program supports community-based initiatives in education, human services, and culture. Eligible nonprofits that align with our criteria may apply for funding on a rolling basis. The application window for invited organizations runs from February 10 to September 15. We emphasize local impact within a 20-mile radius of Corning, NY, ensuring that our contributions foster collective growth and engagement in the community.

The Catawba Valley Community Foundation provides grants to enhance community life in Alexander, Caldwell, and Catawba counties. Established in 1997, it supports local nonprofits through its community grantmaking fund and the Brian Long Youth Fund, focusing on youth needs like hunger and mental health. Grants range from $1,000 to $2,500, totaling up to $38,000 in funding. Special consideration is given to projects targeting early childhood development and substance use disorders.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

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.

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.

The Women's Fund of North Carolina, a program of the North Carolina Community Foundation, aims to enhance the lives of women and girls across the state through grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. This fund prioritizes organizations that address diverse needs and challenges faced by women, especially those led by marginalized populations. Grant decisions are made by a committee, and applicants are notified within 90 days after the application deadline.

The Unifour Foundation Endowment Fund, established in 1998, supports qualified charitable organizations in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties. With over $3 million awarded since 1991, grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. The fund prioritizes projects addressing early childhood education, mental health, and community needs like housing and food insecurity. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and local government units, with applications open to those serving the designated areas.

The ANSWER Scholarship, offered by the College Foundation of North Carolina, provides financial support ranging from $2,750 to $5,500 for nontraditional female students aged 25 and older who are mothers of school-age children. This scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education in North Carolina, helping eligible women pursue their academic goals at both two-year and four-year institutions. It serves residents of specific counties, promoting educational advancement for families.

The Walnut Cove Members Association Grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations serving Western North Carolina. The grant focuses on social services, education, and cultural resources, with funding caps of $25K, $15K, and $10K respectively. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations sponsored by WCMA members. The award process is competitive, emphasizing measurable impact on local residents. Applications must adhere to specific guidelines, ensuring funds directly support community needs.

N.C. Forest Service - Timber Loss Relief Program

Program Overview

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was awarded a U.S. Department of Agriculture block grant to support Hurricane Helene recovery. Part of these disaster recovery funds will be administered by the N.C. Forest Service through a new Timber Loss Relief Program (TLRP). TLRP funds will be used to partially compensate eligible woodland owners for the value of timber loss as a result of Hurricane Helene. 

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.