Best Financial Assistance Grants in North Carolina

The FY26 Tick-Borne Disease Research Program (TBDRP) Idea Development Award aims to fund innovative research that enhances understanding and treatment of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. The program encourages creative approaches that challenge existing paradigms and fosters impactful discoveries. A special career development option is available for early-career investigators, offering mentorship and a tailored review process to support significant research advancements.

The AAAAI Distinguished Service Award recognizes outstanding contributions from members of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. This prestigious award honors those who have demonstrated long-standing commitment and service to the organization, focusing on their influence in advancing the field of allergy and immunology. Eligible recipients include senior members and past presidents, particularly those nearing retirement, thereby celebrating their dedication to the specialty and the patients they serve.

The FY26 Tick-Borne Disease Research Program (TBDRP) Therapeutic/Diagnostic Research Award aims to foster innovative therapeutic and diagnostic research for Lyme disease and other tick-borne conditions. This award supports early-stage drug discovery and evaluation studies, as well as novel diagnostic methods that can be seamlessly implemented in clinical environments, ultimately enhancing patient care and quality of life.

The Therapeutic Giving program by Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance patient access to treatment in cardiovascular and metabolic health. Applications are encouraged for initiatives that promote education, empower patients, and address healthcare disparities. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) certified, with a preference for programs demonstrating measurable outcomes. The funding period for local organizations extends from January to October 15th, while national organizations can apply in September.

Over our more than 100-year history, we've been fighting heart disease and stroke, striving to save and improve lives.

Our Mission

To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

Rapid Impact Research Award

Purpose

The American Heart Association continuously seeks innovative ideas to address the most pressing issues impacting cardiovascular and brain health. To that end, the Association is pleased to announce the Rapid Impact Research Award program, which will support early and mid-career investigators proposing innovative research that aligns with the Association’s mission. Novel basic, clinical and/or population health proposals are invited in the following three priority areas of research.

• Sudden cardiac arrest/resuscitation science
• Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic Syndrome
• Stroke and/or vascular dementia

Applicants will be asked to indicate alignment of their proposal with one or more of the topic areas listed above. 

The HEAL Initiative aims to identify new druggable targets for pain within the understudied proteome. This funding opportunity invites applications for pilot projects that generate preliminary data and tools for exploring these targets. The initiative seeks to enhance research on understudied proteins related to pain management, providing essential funding for biochemical and biological work. This NOFO is part of the NIH's broader effort to develop novel medications that address various aspects of opioid addiction and its consequences.

The Medical and Graduate Student Preceptorship provides a unique opportunity for students to engage in rheumatology through either clinical or research experiences lasting 4 to 8 weeks. Participants will observe practices in a shadowing role, gaining invaluable insights without direct patient management. The program supports students with financial awards of $2,000 or $4,000, depending on the duration of their preceptorship, and includes additional funds for travel expenses to attend professional conferences.

The Rheumatology Scholarship supports undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students in attending ACR Convergence 2025, a premier event for rheumatology. Awardees gain exposure to innovative research and networking opportunities, enhancing their understanding of rheumatic diseases. The scholarship includes $2,000 for travel expenses and complimentary registration, encouraging future professionals to explore careers in this essential field. This initiative aims to strengthen the rheumatology workforce, ensuring better care for patients with musculoskeletal diseases.

About Foam Recycling

The process to recycle foam is like that of other recyclables. In the case of foam products, a special compactor – called a “densifier” – may be used in the processing of the material. Foam products are over 90% air, so densifying it allows the material to be transported more cost-effectively. To give you an example, a 48-foot truckload of baled foam polystyrene weighs only around 16,000 pounds, whereas a truckload of densified foam polystyrene weighs 40,000 pounds.

Innovative alternatives are being developed and deployed that are categorized as chemical recycling (vs. mechanical recycling). This will take the plastic resin back to its base state – in the case of foam PS, back to a styrene monomer. With chemical recycling, increased organic contamination will only impact the amount of foam for recovery (yield), but will not impact the recyclability of the plastic.

Foam Recycling Coalition Grant Program

Funding Source: Funding for the grant program comes from contributions from members of the Foam Recycling Coalition, a special interest group of the Foodservice Packaging Institute.

Grant Amounts: Funding amounts will be made on a case-by-case basis and will be dependent on equipment needs. The maximum amount per grant is $50,000.

Cash Match: No cash match is required, but additional costs by the grantee may be incurred for related items such as site preparation, provision of conveying system and electrical infrastructure, freight, and other installation costs.

The Sustainable Forests and Communities Grant aims to foster environmentally and economically sustainable forest communities in the U.S., particularly where the Weyerhaeuser Family has interests. It prioritizes projects enhancing the environment, economy, and community through sustainable practices. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities operating in forested areas, focusing on integrated approaches that value forest ecosystem services. This initiative encourages local job creation, sustainable economic activities, and innovative partnerships to achieve sustainability goals.

The Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation offers Special Project Funding to support innovative initiatives in the arts, particularly in under-resourced areas. This grant encourages collaborative projects that enhance community engagement and education, focusing on art exhibitions and scholarships in the greater Texas Panhandle. By fostering leadership and creativity, the Foundation aims to empower individuals and organizations to make a lasting impact in the fields of art and art history.

The US Dept. of Health & Human Services, through the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, is set to announce a funding opportunity focused on HIV research for pediatric and maternal populations. This initiative aims to foster innovative clinical trials addressing critical research areas in HIV, inviting collaborations from experts in various fields. Applications are not currently solicited, but potential applicants are encouraged to prepare for this opportunity.

The Evergreen Foundation Grant supports not-for-profit organizations in Western North Carolina that provide essential services for individuals with behavioral health, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. Established in 1977, the Foundation allocates funding through a competitive grant process, typically issuing 25 to 30 grants annually. Eligible applicants include agencies serving these populations and those with 501(c)(3) status. Priorities include infrastructure support, education, and advocacy, ensuring vital services reach the communities in need.

The Student & Resident Research Award, part of the Choose Rheumatology campaign, recognizes outstanding students and residents for significant contributions in rheumatology. Eligible applicants must be authors of abstracts submitted to ACR Convergence 2025 and can receive up to $2,000 in funding for travel and registration. This award promotes engagement in rheumatology through innovative learning experiences at ACR Convergence, enhancing the understanding and care for patients with rheumatic diseases.

The Cheerful Giver Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, offers over $300,000 in financial support to students in the Greater Augusta County area pursuing health care-related education. This need-based scholarship is open to high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners, with a preference for those entering the nursing profession. The foundation aims to enhance community well-being through educational opportunities.

Morris Animal Foundation invites Established Investigators to submit pre-proposals for research focused on reptile and amphibian health. This initiative emphasizes the importance of animal health and welfare while facilitating impactful conservation efforts. Proposals must demonstrate clear animal health needs, collaborative strategies, and potential benefits to wildlife populations. Funding for these projects is anticipated to average around $100,000 over a maximum duration of 36 months, fostering innovative solutions for pressing health challenges in these species.

The St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation 1908 Funds Grants provide financial support to nonprofit organizations in New Hampshire, focusing on community development and services. Established to uphold St. Mary’s Bank's commitment to social responsibility, these grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, aim to foster financial independence and address issues like homelessness, youth support, and civic engagement. The Foundation prioritizes projects that benefit local communities and promote long-term sustainability.

The Down Syndrome – Aim High Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, empowers students pursuing careers in special education or therapy for individuals with Down Syndrome. This scholarship supports dedicated individuals committed to improving the lives of others through education and professional development. Since 1968, the foundation has focused on enhancing community well-being, making this scholarship a vital resource for aspiring professionals in the field.

The Ann W. Dooley Advancement Scholarship supports individuals aged 18-25 with intellectual disabilities who reside in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, or Winnebago County. This scholarship encourages empowerment through education, enabling recipients to enhance their life skills for employment and independence. Established in memory of Ann Dooley, a dedicated educator, this scholarship honors her legacy of service and commitment to helping others. Applicants must provide verification of their disability and enrollment in a post-secondary program.

The Morris Animal Foundation invites research pre-proposals for the Wildlife Health (Reptile and Amphibian) - First Award, aimed at enhancing the health and welfare of amphibians and reptiles. This initiative focuses on impactful research, particularly in chytrid disease. Eligible applicants include early career researchers with appropriate qualifications and a clear understanding of animal health challenges. Projects should demonstrate collaboration with relevant stakeholders and provide direct benefits to wildlife populations, emphasizing conservation through an animal health perspective.

The W. Wesley Eckenfelder Graduate Research Award, administered by the AEESP Foundation, recognizes outstanding graduate students in environmental engineering and science whose research enhances wastewater management knowledge. This prestigious annual award offers a $1,500 honorarium and a plaque for winners, along with a $500 travel stipend for attending the AAEES awards ceremony. Eligible candidates include both Master’s and Ph.D. students who demonstrate exemplary academic performance and innovative research contributions.

The NIHCM Journalism Grants support projects that enhance health reporting and education, targeting critical issues such as healthcare affordability, pharmaceutical pricing, provider market dynamics, and chronic disease management. This initiative emphasizes the importance of informing policymakers and the public on how to improve healthcare quality and access in the U.S. Proposals may also explore the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare delivery. Applications are welcome from journalists, nonprofits, and universities.

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's Expanded Impact Grants Program aims to support previously awarded Quality of Life grantees in expanding successful initiatives for individuals living with paralysis. Offering up to $100,000 for each of the four grants, this program seeks to enhance evidence-based practices that improve the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. Eligible organizations must demonstrate previous success and be capable of scaling their impactful projects within 24 months.

The Ella B. Cleveland Trust Grant supports charitable medical research organizations focusing on leukemia, muscular dystrophy, and cerebral palsy. Established in memory of Ella B. Cleveland, the trust prioritizes 501(c)(3) entities and has no geographic limitations, though it often funds organizations in Georgia. Applications are accepted year-round, with an average grant size of $5,000, and total annual giving ranging from $10,000 to $15,000.

The Robert Silman Award, presented biennially by the James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation, recognizes innovative proposals in the preservation, restoration, or adaptive reuse of the built environment. Open to professionals in various design fields, the award encourages originality and practical applications that advance preservation in the U.S. With a funding limit of $15,000, it seeks projects that demonstrate a clear plan for dissemination and positive community impact, especially for underrepresented groups.

The Quality Improvement grant from Conquer Cancer and Pfizer aims to enhance biomarker testing and treatment practices in cancer care through innovative digital solutions. Targeting colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers, this initiative seeks proposals with measurable outcomes and strategies for sustainability. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their findings can be shared across healthcare systems, ensuring broader impacts on patient care and outcomes. This collaboration reflects a commitment to improving cancer care through technology.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) seeks to advance its mission by supporting the Centers for Structural Biology of HIV and other Infectious Diseases. This solicitation will support multidisciplinary groups of scientists to determine the 3-dimensional structures of molecules and molecular complexes involved in priority infectious diseases. The effort focuses on exploring biomolecular complexes that can be targeted to make new medicines and tests to prevent or treat infections and improve human health. The centers will drive cutting-edge research and development of structural biology technologies, including high-resolution 3D structural analyses, computational molecular dynamics, functional and mechanistic characterization at the molecular and cellular level, visualization at the atomic level of molecular complexes in cells and tissues, and advanced structure-guided design of molecules to combat infectious diseases. The centers will maximize use of common resources, establish broad collaborations, and mentor future structural biology researchers. Grant authorities that allow NIAID to forecast this opportunity are as follows: Sections 301 and 405 of the Public Health Service Act as amended (42 USC 241 and 284) and under Federal Regulations 42 CFR Part 52 and 2 CFR Part 200.