Best Grants for Charter Schools in North Carolina

Focused on education, the Costco Foundation invites North Carolina 501(c)(3) nonprofits to request monetary support for programs serving children, K–12 education, and health and human services. Charter schools with eligible nonprofit status and evidence-based, collaborative programs addressing clear community needs may be considered through the foundation’s grant application process.

K–12-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits with innovative approaches to social or educational challenges in North Carolina may be eligible for funding to develop or expand human services programs. Grants from Creag Foundation help organizations that are piloting new solutions to existing or previously unaddressed issues, including charter schools with creative models to improve student and community outcomes.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government entities, and pre-K–12 or higher education institutions in North Carolina can apply for CSX Foundation’s in-kind donations to support community, military, or first responder initiatives. Support includes intermodal transportation services and occasional donations of railroad equipment and materials, which may help charter schools reduce freight and logistics costs for their programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare can seek up to US $15,000 for programs in North Carolina and beyond. The Dan Paul Foundation funds initiatives such as early childhood development, K–12 enrichment, scholarships, child advocacy, and services for homeless, refugee, or underprivileged youth, which may include charter school programs.

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.

Focused on safety, education, and community development, this program invites North Carolina educational institutions, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government entities, and volunteer fire companies to seek support for K–12 and higher education, STEM, and safety initiatives. Charter schools may be eligible for projects in academic performance, college and career pathways, auto and home safety, and community revitalization.

North Carolina K-12 schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits can receive up to US $15,000 to build on-campus outdoor learning structures such as classrooms, greenhouses, and educational gardens. North Carolina charter schools focused on K-12 education and outdoor learning can access funding through North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission to expand hands-on environmental and recreation opportunities for underserved youth.

North Carolina K-12 schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in North Carolina can receive up to US $2,500 to host outdoor, on-campus visiting programs that engage youth in hands-on learning. With a mission to expand outdoor experiences, North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission supports environmental education, STEM-focused visits, and outdoor learning opportunities, including for charter schools.

North Carolina K–12 education organizations and charter schools can access funding through the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation for projects improving outcomes for urban low-income children and youth. Eligible U.S. entities requesting more than US $50,000 may receive project or scale-up support in education, childhood health, or family economic stability, provided programs align with the foundation’s mission and values.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Education-focused nonprofits and governmental organizations in North Carolina can seek funding for high-impact capital, programmatic, or capacity-building projects that advance housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Focused on large-scale, replicable efforts, State Employees Credit Union Foundation prioritizes tangible projects with regional or statewide reach, which may include charter school initiatives serving K–12 students.

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.

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.

Nonprofit and community organizations supporting health, education, or humanitarian relief can seek funding to serve marginalized communities in North Carolina and worldwide. Semnani Family Foundation provides flexible support for programs such as healthcare access, child welfare, literacy, and disaster relief. Charter schools with qualifying K–12 initiatives that address vulnerable populations may be eligible.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Charter schools and other K–12 education entities in North Carolina can seek funding to host nonprofessional youth sports tournaments and events, including equipment, venue, administration, and marketing costs, with awards up to US $25,000. With a mission to expand youth sports opportunities, North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission provides rolling-basis host funding to eligible city/county units, Pre-K–12 schools, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

North Carolina charter schools and other Pre-K–12 schools, city or county units, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in North Carolina can receive travel funding for nonprofessional youth sports teams and events. With a mission to expand youth sports opportunities, North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission provides up to US $5,000 per team or county, per year, on a rolling basis.

North Carolina 501(c)(3) organizations serving K–12 education, children, families, or related community needs can seek single-year project support that creates tangible impact. Grants from Robinson Foundation help Southern-region nonprofits address areas like education, poverty relief, disaster response, medical assistance, veterans’ issues, and religious or spiritual endeavors, excluding capital or facilities projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding in North Carolina can seek support for their programs and initiatives. With a mission to foster positive change, Dudley T Dougherty Foundation provides charitable organizations with funding that may also benefit charter schools incorporating these focus areas into their work.

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.

Focused on basic needs and community vitality, Ameriprise Financial invites U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for grants supporting hunger relief, shelter, adult self-sufficiency, and community development. North Carolina charter-supporting organizations with eligible K–12, arts education, or financial literacy programs may be competitive, especially where Ameriprise employees or advisors actively volunteer.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

North Carolina K–12 education nonprofits and other 501(c)(3) organizations can access funding through the Dr Scholl Foundation to support programs in education, social services, health care, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental projects. Grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 are awarded annually, primarily to U.S. applicants, for one year of project funding.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

With a mission to strengthen community quality of life, O'Reilly Automotive Foundation provides North Carolina 501(c)(3) nonprofits with project, operating, and capital support for economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief. Charter-supporting organizations serving underserved K–12 students may be eligible if they operate near O’Reilly Auto Parts locations and meet non-discrimination requirements.

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.

Nonprofit organizations in North Carolina with strong, replicable community partnerships can apply for Mutual of America Foundation's national Community Partnership Award, which honors collaborations addressing significant social issues. Programs serving K–12 students in charter schools may be eligible if they demonstrate exemplary cross-sector leadership and measurable community impact.