Best Jackson County Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

Graduating high school seniors in Jackson County, North Carolina and other western NC counties can apply for The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina’s regional scholarships, awarding US $1,000 - US $5,000 for college education costs. Eligible students must attend a qualifying WNC public high school or registered home school, or specific state residential schools.

About Us

The Department connects businesses with the site locations, workforce and infrastructure they need to succeed in one of the nation's top states for business. We also connect local communities with the grants and funding they need to attract new business and ensure future prosperity.

Additionally, our executive branch agency administers the state’s economic incentives program and publishes data, statistics, information and reports for those interested in our state’s economy.

Marketing North Carolina as a business and visitor destination is another function of the Department, and to handle this work we contract services from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), a public-private organization established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 2014.

North Carolina Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) - Demolition Program

Local governments can apply for funding to support demolition projects that result in industrial or commercial sites, using grant funds under the Community Development Block Grant program's Economic Development (ED) category.

Our department holds administrative responsibility for the CDBG program in North Carolina. Our Rural Economic Development Division (REDD) administers the CDBG-ED funds. State rules related to the CDBG program can be found in the North Carolina Administrative Code 4 NCAC 19L and specific ED rules are found at 4 NCAC 1K. Federal funds are made available annually through the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Purpose

Under the authority of Title I of the U. S. Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (as amended), the CDBG demolition program in North Carolina is designed to demolish vacant dilapidated industrial buildings and properties under the elimination of slums and blight national objective. The demolition activity is expected to create a site at which it can reasonably be expected new jobs and private sector investment will locate. Since the demolition activity is qualified under the slums and blight national objective, new job creation with a private employer does not require a legally binding contract. Jobs creation during the demolition phase of the grant should be collected for CDBG reporting purposes.

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.

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 Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Educational Foundation of America (EFA) supports the Reproductive Health & Justice Grant Program to enhance access to abortion and contraception throughout the U.S., particularly in Appalachia, Alabama, and Florida. EFA funds innovative organizations that advocate for reproductive rights, provide direct support to abortion services, and leverage impact investing strategies. This commitment aims to ensure reproductive freedom, foster equity, and promote sustainability in underserved communities.

The Jackson County Community Foundation Grant Program, established in 1992, provides grants to local nonprofits addressing community needs. Grants typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, focusing on issues like food insecurity, youth safety, and substance abuse. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and local government units. Special consideration is given to those serving Jackson County's vulnerable populations. This program empowers donors and strengthens community assets through competitive annual grantmaking.

The Eastern Band of Cherokees Community Foundation's Unrestricted Fund provides vital support for local nonprofit organizations serving tribal members in several counties. Founded in 1991, the foundation aims to enhance community assets through grants ranging from $500 to $1,000, with a total grantmaking cap of $4,500. This fund allows for flexible responses to community needs, fostering development and outreach that benefits the Eastern Band of Cherokees.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local governments in Jackson County, North Carolina can apply for up to US $35,000 to implement projects that restore ecosystems and enhance public use of defined open spaces. With a mission to support environmental initiatives, the Laura Jane Musser Fund prioritizes community participation, youth and volunteer engagement, and measurable ecological and public access outcomes.

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.

Jackson County, North Carolina public school districts needing capital funding for K–12 facilities can access funding through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction for new school construction, additions, repairs, and renovations. Eligible North Carolina counties with lower taxable property values may receive US $30,000,000 - US $50,000,000, with required local matching funds and priority for projects addressing critical deficiencies.

Jackson County, North Carolina nonprofits improving technology access and digital literacy can access funding through Dogwood Health Trust’s Digital Opportunities Grant Pathway 2. Awards of US $20,000 - US $500,000 support programs that expand affordable internet, distribute devices, offer digital skills training, and develop tools that connect residents to health, education, housing, and economic resources.

Students, interns, early-career professionals, K–12 educators, and first-time growers in native plant fields in Jackson County, North Carolina can receive scholarships covering full or partial costs to attend the Cullowhee Native Plant Conference. North Carolina Native Plant Society supports environmental and science education focused on propagating and preserving native southeastern plant species.

Professional artists in any discipline in Jackson County, North Carolina can seek funding for artist training and development projects, including new work, equipment, travel, and promotional materials. Focused on artist development, North Carolina Arts Council invites eligible artists to apply for US $500 - US $1,000 to advance their careers, with projects completed by December 31, 2026.

Folk and traditional artists in Jackson County, North Carolina can receive US $3,000 - US $7,000 to support 12-month mentor–apprentice training in Appalachian folklife. The North Carolina Arts Council’s Folklife Apprenticeship Program funds teams of mentor artists and one or more apprentices to preserve community-based cultural practices and arts.

The In These Mountains: Infrastructure Grants, offered by South Arts, aim to preserve and promote the folk arts and traditional culture of Central Appalachia. This initiative supports non-profit organizations in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Tennessee, focusing on enhancing the resources necessary for sustaining and advancing traditional arts. Grants of up to $30,000 are available to address non-programming expenses, ensuring the continuity of cultural practices while prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Jackson County, North Carolina at high risk of terrorist or extremist attack can seek funding for physical security upgrades and preparedness activities. North Carolina Emergency Management administers this FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program for target hardening, including contract security, planning, equipment, training, and response exercises, with awards up to US $200,000 per site.

The Gene and Lee Meyer Scholarship, founded in 1993, aims to support deserving students from Graham, Jackson, Macon, Swain counties, and the Qualla Boundary in their pursuit of higher education. This scholarship provides essential financial assistance to well-rounded students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership potential. It prioritizes those in need and those transitioning out of foster care, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their educational aspirations.

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 Heffington Scholarship is a memorial fund honoring Nina Weintraub Heffington, established by her family and friends to support students from Cashiers and Highlands. This scholarship aims to empower local high school graduates and seniors who plan to pursue further education at accredited institutions. Nina's legacy of kindness and dedication to youth education lives on through this initiative, encouraging community engagement and academic achievement among the next generation.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving Western North Carolina residents with social or healthcare services, education, or natural and cultural resources programs in Jackson County, North Carolina can apply for competitive project grants of US $10,000 - US $25,000. With a mission to support member-prioritized community needs, Walnut Cove Members Association funds program costs, staff time, and materials for measurable local impact.

Nonprofits, public agencies, tribal governments, schools, and eligible organizations in Jackson County, North Carolina can seek funding to launch, grow, or scale programs improving youth and young adult well-being. Nantahala Health Foundation provides up to US $50,000 for initiatives expanding education access, healthcare access, and career pathways for underserved young people, with at least one collaborative partner.

Nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and public agencies providing emergency relief or recovery services in Jackson County, North Carolina can apply for flexible support from the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina’s Emergency and Disaster Response Fund. Grants are considered case by case, prioritizing areas most affected by Hurricane Helene and organizations with prior CFWNC funding connections.