Best Chowan County Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

About

Originally conceived by Dr Bruce Mesara in 1990 as a means to carry on his philanthropic efforts beyond his lifetime, the Mesara Family Foundation was re-envisioned by his two children Amy and Douglas in 2014, and received their 501(c)(3) status from the IRS in 2015. Amy and Douglas sought out the assistance of their cousins to build upon the charitable principals on their parents, aunts and uncles.

The foundation is headquartered in Kalamazoo Michigan.

Mission

The mission of the Mesara Family Foundation is to honor the philanthropic principles of the Mesara and Pauch families by supporting carefully selected organizations that share similar values. Our focus is to provide support toward education, conservation and other causes of special family interest where our funding will make a genuine difference.

SECU Foundation Grant

Purpose

The SECU Foundation promotes local and community development by primarily funding high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services. The State Employees’ Credit Union Board of Directors chartered the SECU Foundation to help identify and address community issues that are beyond the normal scope of State Employees’ Credit Union. While individual members may not have a large impact, collectively and cooperatively the Foundation can go a long way toward helping solve problems in our neighborhoods, schools and our community at large.

Programmatic Grants

Programmatic grants fund pilot programs or large-scale expansions that deliver regional or statewide services. Eligible projects must:

• Have an established proof of concept or evidence-based model
• Include clear objectives, a detailed implementation strategy, and a plan for sustainability and evaluation
• Demonstrate regional reach, with preference given to statewide impact
• Have a total grant request that does not exceed 30% of the total project budget

Grants are limited by SECU Foundation funding. We do not place minimum or maximum restrictions on the amount that may be requested in a grant proposal.

SECU Foundation Grant

Purpose

The SECU Foundation promotes local and community development by primarily funding high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services. The State Employees’ Credit Union Board of Directors chartered the SECU Foundation to help identify and address community issues that are beyond the normal scope of State Employees’ Credit Union. While individual members may not have a large impact, collectively and cooperatively the Foundation can go a long way toward helping solve problems in our neighborhoods, schools and our community at large.

Mission Development Grants

Mission Development Grants support smaller non-profits in building organizational capacity through assessment, goal setting, and strategic planning for long-term sustainability. Prioritized nonprofits will:

• Be located in a Tier 1 county, rural community, or underfunded region
• Provide direct services in housing, healthcare, education, or human services
• Operate with an annual budget between $100,000 and $1.5 million
• Have been in operation for between 3 and 10 years, or be navigating a leadership transition
• Be located in a county with limited prior SECU Foundation grant support

Grants are limited by SECU Foundation funding. We do not place minimum or maximum restrictions on the amount that may be requested in a grant proposal.

The BJA FY 2026 John R. Justice Formula Grant Program offers loan repayment assistance to local and state prosecutors and public defenders who commit to three years of service. Administered by state agencies, this program aims to alleviate the financial burden on legal professionals dedicated to public service. Applications are due by November 10, 2026, providing a crucial opportunity for eligible beneficiaries to secure support for their educational loans.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is inviting proposals for projects that enhance coastal flood protection through public-private partnerships, innovative insurance products, and improved sediment management. This initiative aims to utilize natural infrastructure to bolster flood preparedness and resilience. Funding of up to $2,000,000 is available for selected projects, supporting research teams that collaborate with regional stakeholders. Proposals must be submitted via Grants.gov, ensuring accessibility to critical resources and information.

The BJA FY 2026 Tribal Justice Training and Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance Tribal justice systems through specialized technical support. This funding opportunity addresses critical issues such as violent crime and substance-use related crime, including opioids. By assisting federally recognized Indian Tribes, the program promotes the development of sustainable legal and corrections infrastructure while fostering collaboration with federal, state, and local partners. Applications are due by October 28, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Second Chance Act Youth Reentry Program aims to provide critical support for moderate- to high-risk youth transitioning back into their communities after confinement. This funding opportunity encourages collaboration among state agencies, local governments, Tribes, and community organizations to deliver comprehensive reentry services and assist youth in overcoming challenges related to recidivism. Applications are due by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program Support aims to fortify a national network of 61 multiagency task forces dedicated to combating child sexual exploitation facilitated by technology. This funding opportunity enhances training, prevention, and outreach efforts while fostering collaboration among law enforcement entities. Applications are due in JustGrants by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, ensuring timely support for critical initiatives to protect children.

The CDC is offering funding to enhance collaboration among tuberculosis control programs and various partners in the U.S. This initiative aims to strengthen relationships with national TB control entities, federal agencies, academia, and community organizations. The goal is to promote health and quality of life by preventing, controlling, and eventually eliminating tuberculosis in the United States, building on previous funding opportunities.

The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program aims to enhance the research capabilities of individuals with advanced degrees, focusing on disability and rehabilitation research related to employment outcomes. Funded by the US HHS Administration for Community Living, this grant offers a 36-month project period, supporting multidisciplinary training for researchers, including those with disabilities, to contribute to high-quality research in the field.

The Fiscal Year 2026 Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program aims to enhance public safety by reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and improving habitat connectivity for various species. With approximately $80 million available through cost reimbursable grants, this initiative supports eligible projects that address these critical environmental and safety concerns. The program may also distribute leftover funds from previous years, contingent on availability, fostering innovative solutions in wildlife management and transportation safety.

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program, managed by the Department of War, aims to enhance the U.S. military's technical workforce by offering competitive scholarships for STEM degrees. With a funding cap of $1.3 billion over ten years, the program prepares scholars for critical roles in national defense, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals. Since its inception in 2005, over 8,000 scholarships have been awarded, fostering a strong connection between education and service in defense-related fields.

The Prioritization Process Pilot Program (PPPP) Competitive Grant Program, funded by the DOT Federal Highway Administration, offers up to $26 million for innovative transportation planning in FYs 2024-2026. Grants of up to $2 million will support the development of transparent, data-driven prioritization processes for project selection in transportation plans, ensuring that funded projects deliver public benefits and meet community needs.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

WRF was formed in 2018 through the integration of three highly respected research collaboratives: WateReuse Research Foundation, Water Environment Research Foundation, and Water Research Foundation. Separately, these organizations focused on research to support varied segments of the water sector—water reuse, wastewater and stormwater, and drinking water, respectively. Now a One Water organization, WRF delivers the research programming the sector needs to address the most pressing water issues holistically.

5425 - Assessing and Managing Manganese Behavior in Drinking Water Distribution and Premise Plumbing Systems

Grant Information

• Characterize spatial and temporal variability of manganese (Mn) concentrations and speciation in distribution systems and potential impacts in premise plumbing.
• Investigate Mn speciation and its influences on interactions with water chemistry, corrosion control treatment, and complexing agents, and assess implications for Mn occurrence, stability, and release in distribution systems and premise plumbing.
• Evaluate the relationships between Mn stability and release, including long-term legacy deposit mobilization, in relation to chemical, hydraulic, and biological processes in distribution systems.
• Evaluate strategies for mitigating Mn accumulation and release, including corrosion control treatments such as phosphate blends, and assess operational practices such as flushing and other system maintenance activities.
• Recommend monitoring strategies to identify system-specific risks, support detection of Mn accumulation, and inform responses to anticipated regulatory changes.

The USDA SBIR/STTR programs aim to enhance scientific excellence and technological innovation through federal funding, fostering a robust national economy. By supporting small businesses in addressing federal research needs, these programs encourage the commercialization of federally funded research. Specifically, the STTR program promotes partnerships between small businesses and research institutions, such as universities and federal laboratories, to advance cooperative research and development efforts.

This project aims to combat the rapid spread of invasive climbing plants in the southeastern U.S. and Caribbean by creating a comprehensive database on species traits and disturbance locations. The database will enhance understanding of vine expansion and provide predictive maps for future spread, assisting managers in identifying vulnerable areas. This initiative aligns with federal priorities for natural resource stewardship and aims to strengthen community resilience against biological threats.

The Technical Assistance and Training Grant Program by the USDA's Rural Utilities Service provides funding for essential technical assistance and training aimed at resolving water and waste management issues. This program supports applicants in preparing loan and grant applications, enhancing the operational efficiency of water systems, and ensuring compliance with best practices in facility management. However, grant funds cannot be used for duplicating existing services or for capital expenditures.

The Solid Waste Management Grant Program, administered by the USDA's Rural Utilities Service, invites applications for FY 2027 funding. This initiative aims to enhance solid waste management in rural communities through technical assistance and training. Eligible organizations can receive grants to develop sustainable waste management practices, addressing critical issues like water pollution and emerging contaminants, while promoting hazardous waste collection. This program supports operational improvements and capital financing applications to ensure long-term environmental health.

The HIV Prevention and Alcohol R61/R33 funding opportunity aims to advance innovative HIV prevention strategies through a phased research approach. The R61 phase focuses on developing and pilot testing interventions, addressing key implementation questions for diverse populations. Following successful milestones, the R33 phase expands testing of these interventions and explores their effectiveness and sustainability, particularly in relation to alcohol use and related health issues.

The NASA ROSES 2025: A.18 Geosphere program provides funding for research on solid-Earth processes across various scales. It aims to enhance understanding of the Earth's structure and dynamics, particularly in the core, mantle, and lithosphere. Key areas of focus include Earth Surface Properties, Crustal Dynamics, and Earth Interior. This initiative supports advancements in managing natural resources, assessing geohazards, and exploring the forces driving plate tectonics, ultimately contributing to improved hazard forecasting and mitigation strategies.

The Distressed Cities Technical Assistance (DCTA) Program provides competitive funding for eligible applicants to deliver technical assistance to local governments serving economically distressed communities of 50,000 or fewer residents. Selected awardees collaborate closely with HUD to enhance the capabilities of UGLG officials and staff, ensuring they effectively address community needs. Applicants may focus on broad HUD jurisdictions or specific areas as specified in the program's NOFO.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5430 - Unlocking Value and Opportunities from Carbon Flows in Water Utilities

Grant Information

• Identify carbon flows across drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and advanced treatment systems. Carbon flows may include source water, stormwater, process emissions, process inputs, residuals, and biogas.
• Identify the most relevant carbon recovery, capture, conversion, storage, and avoidance opportunities.
• Evaluate value creation pathways, including products, avoided costs, and environmental attributes, and mechanisms and partnerships needed to put them into practice.
• Assess how opportunities vary across system types and local contexts by focusing on more common scenarios for utilities.
• Provide practical, research-based insights to support identification, prioritization, evaluation, and advancement of carbon management opportunities under site-specific conditions and constraints.
• Evaluate implications for greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, environmental attribute claims, and other potential benefits across pathways.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5411 - Practical Playbook for Adaptive Utility Capital Improvement Planning Under Deep Uncertainty

Grant Information

• Assess current utility practices for incorporating adaptive or flexible decision making into capital improvement planning (CIP) at the portfolio or programmatic level.
• Identify where deep uncertainty most affects CIP decision points, including investment areas prone to lock-in or points of no return.
• Document the institutional processes, frameworks, and governance structures that have enabled utilities to embed adaptive and flexible investment strategies.
• Quantify how adaptive capital strategies compare to traditional CIP approaches in terms of lifecycle costs, rate stability, financial risk exposure, and avoided or deferred capital investments across a range of plausible future conditions.
• Establish practical criteria to help utilities determine which types of capital investments are well suited for adaptive approaches.
• Develop a practitioner-focused playbook that equips utilities to apply adaptive CIP in practice, including case studies, decision trees, trigger points, vulnerability assessment tools, financial and risk insights, and governance guidance.
• Produce tiered recommendations that allow utilities to adopt adaptive CIP practices incrementally.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5426 - Investigation of Non-Point Sources of PFAS in Sewersheds and Potential Mitigation Strategies

Grant Information

Evaluate the impact of non-point or dispersed sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the sewershed (including PFAS-contaminated groundwater infiltration) on PFAS mass loading to wastewater treatment plants.

Assess how PFAS loading from non-point or dispersed sources of PFAS in the sewershed may affect treatment efficiency and reuse water quality.

Improve understanding of PFAS precursor contributions.

Identify potential strategies to mitigate PFAS loading from non-point or disbursed sources of PFAS in the sewershed.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5416 - Innovative Approaches to Extend Lifetime and Minimize O&M for Nature-based Installations

Grant Information

• Identify and evaluate innovative design, construction, and management approaches that extend the functional lifetime of nature-based installations and reduce ongoing operations and maintenance (O&M) requirements.
• Develop practical guidance on key factors affecting nature-based solution (NbS) longevity, including hydraulic optimization, engineered media selection and replacement, plant selection, sediment management, and construction-phase best practices.
• Survey utilities and other NbS owners to document current maintenance practices, costs, and hours, and establish benchmarks to inform targets for improvement.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5415 - Guidelines to Develop Best-In-Class Maintenance Strategies for Vertical Assets

Grant Information

• Develop a clear understanding of the background and benefits associated with implementing well-rounded maintenance strategies for vertical assets.
• Develop a structured approach to identify and implement best-in-class maintenance strategies for vertical assets that improve reliability, increase asset availability, reduce unplanned work and emergency shutdowns, support the transition from reactive to proactive maintenance, and minimize total lifecycle cost.
• Apply leading practices such as Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) and cutting-edge technologies and analytics to vertical assets.