Best Grants for Capital Funding in North Carolina

Who We Are

For nearly 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. The results of our work are visible across North and South Carolina, proving that by leveraging our cooperative spirit, we can change our communities.

Hero Awards

Each year, the Foundation honors people and organizations who have made or continue to make a transformational impact on the credit union movement. Hero Award winners are honored at the Foundation’s Awards Gala each year. 

Nominations for the following awards categories are accepted: The Lifetime Achievement Award, The Individual Achievement Award, The Partner in Philanthropy Award and The Advancing Equity Award.

The Partner in Philanthropy Award

Honors a business partner, service provider, chapter or credit union for its commitment and practices that exude philanthropic character and affirms the people helping people philosophy.

The North Carolina Humanities: Small Project Grants offer up to $5,000 to support public humanities projects that foster dialogue, critical thinking, and community engagement. Since 1972, the North Carolina Humanities Council has aimed to deepen human connections, encourage respect and understanding, and address fundamental questions about identity and culture. Eligible projects include workshops, exhibitions, and discussion series that connect diverse communities and create meaningful conversations.

The Brightwork Grants: Special Project Grant, offered by the North Carolina Arts Council, aims to support visual artists in 2026. One artist will receive funding for studio-based projects, which may cover equipment purchases, exhibition-related expenses, and project-specific research costs. Eligible applicants must reside in designated North Carolina counties and be at least 21 years old. This initiative fosters artistic innovation and community enrichment by empowering local talent through targeted financial support.

The NC Patriot STAR Family Scholarship Program, initiated by the Patriot Foundation in 2003, offers financial support to military families in North Carolina. This scholarship, funded by the NC Legislature, is available to children and spouses of fallen or disabled veterans, as well as qualifying disabled veterans. Each semester, recipients may receive approximately $2,000 to assist with educational costs at NC post-secondary institutions, ensuring accessible education for those who serve our country.

The ChildTrust Foundation offers program grants aimed at enhancing early education and literacy in North Carolina. Focused on supporting organizations that serve young children and their families, the foundation prioritizes equity for historically underserved communities. By fostering collaboration and building capacity within the sector, it seeks to amplify the impact of its funding. Grants are directed towards 501(c)3 organizations, emphasizing inclusive practices in early childhood education.

ChildTrust Foundation provides Policy Grants aimed at supporting 501(c)3 organizations in North Carolina that focus on early childhood education and literacy. Their grantmaking emphasizes collaboration, networking, and capacity building to enhance the impact of advocacy efforts. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote equity for underserved children and families. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis without strict application deadlines, allowing for flexible funding opportunities throughout the year.

The North Carolina Tuition Assistance Program (NCTAP) offers financial support to actively drilling Army and Air Guard members in North Carolina. This reimbursement program helps service members cover tuition costs at approved educational institutions within the state. Eligibility requires at least two years remaining on their contract and the ability to apply before attending Initial Active Duty Training (IADT). NCTAP aims to enhance educational opportunities for military personnel, fostering a well-educated and skilled force.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Mary R. Hemphill Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, supports Buncombe, Madison, and McDowell High School graduates pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. This renewable scholarship aims to assist students with a passion for animals, particularly those interested in large animal care. With a rich history of charitable contributions, the Foundation has awarded over $456 million in scholarships, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region.

With support from Toyota Motor North America, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $250,000 in grant funding to make public lands more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities. The 2026 grant program will focus on communities near Toyota Motor North America facilities and is restricted to 16 communities, as detailed below. 

Overview

Through the 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands grant, NEEF aims to:

• Increase the capacity of local organizations and government agencies to address mobility and accessibility considerations on public lands; and
• Improve the level of access, comfort, and enjoyment experienced by public lands visitors of all abilities, together with their families and friends.

The grant will provide up to $20,000 per grantee to increase physical or digital access, provide adaptive recreation equipment or programming, or perform accessibility assessments on public lands in communities near 16 Toyota Motor North America facilities.

The North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) provides matching grants up to $500,000 to local governments for the development and improvement of parks and public beach access. Since its inception in 1994, PARTF has been instrumental in enhancing community quality of life by supporting local park initiatives. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, and public authorities, with a focus on ensuring facilities are dedicated for public recreational use for at least 25 years.

The North Carolina Arts Council's Sustaining Support program offers funding between $7,500 and $65,000 to arts organizations that produce engaging programs reflecting their communities. Eligible applicants must maintain a budget of at least $75,000 and demonstrate commitment to quality arts programming. This support aids in various operational needs, including salaries and production costs, fostering the state's creative economy and ensuring diverse artistic practices.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

The Federal Excess Personal Property Loan Program enables North Carolina's fire departments to access surplus federal property for fire suppression activities. Through collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, essential equipment such as vehicles, fire trucks, generators, and light towers are loaned to enhance firefighting capabilities. Departments must maintain these items and ensure proper licensing and insurance. This initiative not only supports local fire services but also contributes to community safety and resource efficiency.

The Firefighter Property Program, managed by the North Carolina Forest Service, provides surplus military equipment to eligible fire departments at no cost. This initiative enhances emergency response capabilities by supplying vital resources such as vehicles, fire trucks, generators, and specialized gear. By ensuring local fire departments have access to this equipment, the program strengthens community safety and preparedness, ultimately benefiting the residents of North Carolina.

The NCAC Project Support Grant provides financial assistance ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for North Carolina-based nonprofit organizations. This grant is aimed at initiatives that engage communities through artistic programs, including exhibitions, festivals, and artist residencies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a history of producing quality programs and meet specific financial criteria. The grant encourages projects that foster engagement, creativity, and cultural enrichment across diverse artistic disciplines.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.

The Fire Department Training Grant Program, managed by the North Carolina Forest Service, provides essential training courses for rural fire departments. These courses enhance firefighting skills and safety measures, enabling personnel to effectively manage wildland fires and protect communities. With a focus on practical skills, the program covers various topics including fire suppression tactics, incident command systems, and chainsaw safety, ensuring that fire departments are well-prepared to respond to emergencies in their regions.

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The Youth Sports Grant - Host Funding provides up to $25,000 to support nonprofessional youth sports teams and events in North Carolina. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and funds can be used for attracting various sporting events and programs. Eligible applicants include city, county, and local school units or 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The application process will soon transition to an online portal, ensuring a streamlined submission experience for future applicants.

The Standard's Corporate Giving Program emphasizes community support and employee engagement, reflecting its foundational mission to enhance financial well-being. Established in 1906, the program focuses on Healthy Communities, Disability and Empowerment, Cultural Development, and Education. With a funding range of $500 to $25,000, it aims to make a substantial impact in the lives of individuals and families facing challenges. The Standard Charitable Foundation, launched in 2006, further extends this commitment by supporting organizations that align with its philanthropic goals.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Kids 'N Community Foundation offers Future Canes Grants to support youth hockey programs in North Carolina. With a commitment of at least $60,000 annually, these grants aim to enhance accessibility and growth in youth hockey. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children, demonstrating effective program delivery and a focus on health or education. The Foundation emphasizes impactful service, ensuring funds directly benefit children in need, while also outlining specific ineligible activities.

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

Southern SARE offers Graduate Student Grants to support Master’s and PhD students engaged in sustainable agriculture research. This initiative encourages impactful research across various topics, including production, marketing, and social sciences. By providing funding opportunities, Southern SARE aims to foster the next generation of researchers committed to advancing sustainable agricultural practices throughout the Southern region.

The Brightwork Grants: Professional Development, initiated by the North Carolina Arts Council, aims to support visual artists in their professional growth. Starting in 2026, one selected artist will receive funding for activities enhancing their development, such as workshops, portfolio documentation, and equipment purchases. Eligible applicants must reside in specific North Carolina counties for at least one year and be 21 or older. Notably, those awarded the Brightwork Fellowship after 2022 are ineligible.