Best Grants for New Nonprofits in North Carolina

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

General Fund Scholarships

These funds are provided by the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. Scholarships are available to Members of any credit union in North and South Carolina. Both academic and need-based scholarships for all levels of higher education are awarded, including technical and community college scholarships.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse is funding pilot and feasibility studies aimed at preparing for substance use and HIV prevention research trials. The program encourages innovative interventions for substance use disorders and HIV eradication, focusing on stakeholder collaboration and practical application. Projects may include assessment of service models, intervention development, and community engagement. This initiative is designed to fill critical research gaps and enhance partnerships, although applications are not currently being accepted.

The Emerging Traditional Artists Program (ETAP), presented by South Arts Inc., supports early-career traditional artists from Appalachian Regional Commission-designated counties. With a $5,000 award, artists can access training, networking, and mentorship opportunities to enhance their skills and community impact. This initiative aims to preserve traditional arts and culture while fostering a new generation of artists dedicated to their craft and cultural heritage.

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 Advancing Equity Award

Honors an individual, credit union, business partner, or community non-profit for their commitment to the credit union industry’s 8th Cooperative Principle of DEI. This award recognizes the proactive efforts of people or organizations who cultivate belonging for all through fair and equitable policies, products, programs, and initiatives that enhance the well-being of employees, members, and/or surrounding communities. This award seeks to encourage those who, through committing time and resources to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, live out the cooperative principle to engage everyone in governance, management and representation.

The Dominion Energy Educational Equity Scholarship Program aims to support students from specific states pursuing higher education. With awards of $5,000 for 2-year programs and $10,000 for 4-year degrees, this program emphasizes both need and merit in its selection process. Administered by Scholarship America®, it is open to high school seniors and undergraduates maintaining a GPA of 3.0. Awards may be renewed for up to three years or until a bachelor's degree is obtained.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

About our scholarships

We partner with Civic Federal Credit Union to provide both professional development and student scholarships.

Over many years, the scholarships have provided nearly $3.5 million to credit union members to further their education. This investment not only advances the professional development and educational goals of Civic members, but also strengthens the communities they serve — amplifying their leadership impact and deepening their ability to drive meaningful change across North Carolina.

UNC School of Government Scholarship

North Carolinians serving in local government, the nonprofit sector, or other public service fields — and who are members of Civic Credit Union — are eligible to apply for a scholarship that helps offset the cost of tuition for conferences, courses, and seminars offered by the UNC School of Government in Chapel Hill.

The Civic Scholarship Committee reviews applications based on the course start date.

Funds may not be awarded on a reimbursement basis for courses or programs that are completed or in progress.

Proof of registration for courses is required in order to apply for a scholarship. For applicants waiting on acceptance to a course, a copy of the confirmation email proving the applicant has applied to attend will suffice.

Funds can be used to help cover the cost of tuition for conference, classes and seminars offered by the UNC School of Government.

The Governor's Crime Commission Grants, under the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), aim to enhance victim assistance programs. This funding prioritizes support for historically marginalized and underserved populations, promoting restoration and healing through targeted services. The Governor's Crime Commission acts as the State Administering Agency, distributing federal and state funds to local agencies and non-profits. Collaboration and evidence-based practices are encouraged to effectively address the needs of crime victims.

Mission

The Foundation was established in December 2013 by Kathryn B. McQuade, after retiring from 33 years of working in the business community. I was blessed to have been born into a loving middle class family. My father worked very hard to insure that all of his children were given an opportunity for a good education and my mother, “a stay at home Mom’ was always there for us. My world was safe and comfortable. My life is in stark contrast to how much of the rest of the world lives. I continue to read of the terrible injustices waged against women and children globally and hope that this foundation can provide them the opportunity and resources to succeed. We will support organizations that help us achieve our goal of Striving to make sustainable improvements in women and children’s rights education and welfare.

Kathryn McQuade Foundation Grant

The Foundation will make timely decisions on your grant request and provide clear communications on our expectations of reporting progress.

Women

The Foundation’s goal is to provide women assistance and provide them an opportunity to succeed. Assistance can take many forms, however our goal is to help them become self sufficient and enable them to lift themselves out of poverty and provide for their children. Access to education, job training and professional skills, even access to capital in order to build a business are possible ways we will consider helping women to succeed. Grant requests should focus on enabling the women to sustain financial independence.

We look forward to hearing of the many creative ways organizations are working on helping women succeed through out the world. To help women is to help their children and the communities they live in.

Children

Too many children in the US and across the world live in poverty and lack the access to education. Education and/or appropriate skills training are necessary to break the cycle of poverty and crime. While the assistance to women may take many forms, the foundation’s focus for children will target education and/ or skills training. The Foundation is open to many ideas on how to accomplish this goal and look forward to receiving proposals to help all children achieve their potential.

The NCVMA High 5 Grant offers $25,000 annually to support organizations that enhance community service and welfare for people and animals in North Carolina. This initiative, led by the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association, aims to promote educational projects with veterinary involvement. Grants of up to $5,000 each are available to qualified applicants, with a preference for those demonstrating fiscal responsibility and past successes. This program reflects NCVMA's commitment to veterinary excellence and community advocacy.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is offering grants for community-based services targeting substance use disorders. This initiative aims to expand access to essential services while addressing gaps in care across the state. Eligible organizations can apply for project budgets up to $500,000 annually, with at least 12 contracts expected to be awarded. The funding supports prevention, treatment, and support services to enhance the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians.

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.

The Corning Nonprofit Grants program supports community-based initiatives in education, human services, and culture. Eligible nonprofits that align with our criteria may apply for funding on a rolling basis. The application window for invited organizations runs from February 10 to September 15. We emphasize local impact within a 20-mile radius of Corning, NY, ensuring that our contributions foster collective growth and engagement in the community.

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

The Toy Foundation Program offers a unique opportunity for nonprofit organizations to apply for toy donations to support children in need. The application period runs from January to June, with approved applicants receiving toys by the end of the year. This initiative, part of the Toy Chest program, has positively impacted over 35 million children since 2003, promoting play as essential for emotional and educational development.

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

About Hendersonville Woman's Club Scholarship

The scholarship is to be awarded to a student who has financial need; is a Henderson County resident and graduate of a Henderson County school; plans to attend a four-year accredited school in North Carolina; is of good moral character; and has an acceptable grade point average.

This is a renewable scholarship.

The Bonnycastle Fellowship for Wetland and Waterfowl Research supports graduate students in advancing conservation efforts. Offered by Ducks Unlimited, this fellowship provides up to $17,000 annually for research and personal support. The fellowship emphasizes the importance of research originality, ecological contributions, and feasibility. It is open to all North American graduate students, with a preference for doctoral candidates. The award is renewable for PhD students up to two years, and once for Master's students, contingent on satisfactory progress.

The Doris Betts Fiction Prize, administered by the North Carolina Writers’ Network, fosters literary talent by awarding a $250 prize and publication in the North Carolina Literary Review. Open to legal residents of North Carolina and members of the Network, it encourages previously unpublished short stories up to 6,000 words. Finalists also receive consideration for publication and monetary awards ranging from $50 to $150. This initiative highlights the importance of writing in nurturing community and civic discourse.

The Artist Creative Practice Grant by South Arts supports individual artists in various disciplines by funding professional development opportunities. This grant ensures that artists can access vital experiences that enhance their careers, covering up to 2/3 of the total costs with awards ranging from $500 to $3,000. By promoting artistic growth, South Arts aims to elevate the cultural landscape of the Southern United States and foster meaningful connections within communities.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

Duke Energy Foundation

Duke Energy Foundation powers the vitality of the communities we serve by building vibrant economies; strengthening local resiliency; and promoting community opportunity.

More than $30 million in charitable grants each year drives impact and improvements in our communities. Additionally, Duke Energy volunteers donate nearly $4M worth of their time in nonprofit service.

Senior Economic Vibrancy

The Duke Energy Foundation seeks to support nonprofit organizations that strengthen stability for seniors, particularly families and individuals who are experiencing financial need in the communities we serve. The Foundation will invest $500,000 in organizations that help seniors age in place, maintain access to essential services and reduce financial strain through this grant opportunity.

Opportunity

Applications should demonstrate how investments will expand access to essential services for older adults and reduce financial strain associated with aging for families and individuals who are experiencing financial need in the communities served by Duke Energy. Examples of potential proposals include:

• Capacity to support critical home repair, safety modifications, or aging-in-place services.
• Strengthening organizations that help seniors access housing stability, food security, healthcare navigation, or benefits.
• Expanding organizational capacity to reach isolated older adults.
• Improving service coordination for seniors at risk of financial insecurity.

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The Margo T. Petrie Spaying and Neutering Foundation Grant aims to combat pet overpopulation in North Carolina by providing funding to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations offering spaying and neutering services. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $50,000 and can be single or multi-year. Priority is given to projects with specific goals that directly promote spaying and neutering, enhancing companion animal welfare and reducing euthanasia rates.

Betty Taylor Memorial Award

The Betty Taylor Memorial Award is designed to award funds to support advancement in the applicants career as an emerging artist in the field of visual arts and crafts through education, advanced projects, marketing and/or other related pursuits. The relationship of the project to the career advancement of the applicant must be clearly defined in the “Narrative” section of the application. Conducting deeper study is a key element to the Taylor Award, and the applicant will need to elaborate on study method, mentoring, apprenticeships, etc.

Purpose 

To promote emerging artists who are in need of financial support for continued education in the field of visual arts and crafts.

The Betty Taylor Memorial Award is funded by The Ellen (Betty) Taylor Memorial Fund at Community Foundation of Henderson County (CFHC) and administrated in partnership with the Arts Council of Henderson County. 

The Southern Equality Research Grant, offered by the Campaign for Southern Equality, aims to empower students and early career researchers to conduct crucial studies on LGBTQ+ issues in the South. With over a third of LGBTQ+ Americans residing in this region, there is a significant need for research to address legal protections and social inequities. This initiative seeks to elevate the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ Southerners, fostering a deeper understanding of the policies affecting their lives.

The John William Pope Foundation offers annual grants to enhance the well-being of North Carolinians through public policy, education, human services, and the arts. It prioritizes organizations that promote free-market principles and intellectual diversity, focusing on projects that directly impact the community. With a commitment to fostering critical thinking and personal responsibility, the Foundation accepts proposals year-round, issuing grants biannually in spring and fall. The Foundation aims to empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills necessary for success.