Best Grants for Nonprofit Human Services in North Carolina

The Salisbury-Rowan Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance local community welfare by funding projects that address pressing needs in Salisbury and Rowan County. With a focus on arts, animal welfare, health care, and education, the Foundation supports measurable initiatives that demonstrate effective use of funds. Grants can range from $2,500 to $10,000, and priority is given to innovative programs that do not duplicate existing services. Eligible organizations include non-profits and educational institutions.

The Cole Foundation Grants, part of the Foundation For The Carolinas, support local nonprofits in Richmond County, NC. With over $31 million awarded since 2015, the foundation focuses on enhancing community welfare through various projects. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and churches. However, they do not fund capital campaigns, individual support, or projects that duplicate existing services. For more details, visit www.fftc.org/regional_affiliates.

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.

The AINA Grant-in-Aid program, established by the Arctic Institute of North America, provides funding of $1000 to support young investigators, particularly graduate students, in their research related to Arctic issues. Eligible applicants must be affiliated with a U.S. or Canadian academic institution. The funding can cover travel, supplies, and equipment but not salaries. The program emphasizes the relevance and quality of research proposals that engage the Arctic community.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust, founded in New Jersey, aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations for charitable and educational purposes. It focuses on various program areas including arts, education, environment, health, and human services. Although there are no geographic restrictions, preference is often given to organizations based in New Jersey. Additionally, funds awarded cannot be used outside the United States, ensuring that contributions remain within the country to benefit local communities.

The James B. Linsmayer Foundation Grant supports programs in arts, culture, education, health, and human services primarily within the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Established in memory of James B. Linsmayer, the foundation aims to be a strategic partner in these vital areas. Eligible grantees include public charities recognized under IRC guidelines, with no geographic limitations but a preference for local organizations. While start-ups may be considered, funding for organizational expenses is not permitted.

The Lubrizol Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with community investment priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on quality education, health, and sustainable communities. Established in 1952, the foundation emphasizes support for initiatives in Cleveland, Ohio, and Houston, Texas. Grant applications are evaluated based on alignment with Lubrizol's investment pillars, with a commitment to fostering social impact and community well-being through financial support.

The Bruce J. Heim Foundation Grant supports organizations that empower young individuals with exceptional potential in academics and the arts. Established in 1986, this private foundation aims to provide financial assistance that fosters skill enhancement and personal growth. The Board evaluates grant requests monthly, assessing the viability and significance of each organization’s project. The Foundation's goal is to inspire recipients to realize their potential and contribute to philanthropic efforts, echoing the support they received.

The Richard S. Reynolds Foundation, established in 1955 in Richmond, Virginia, supports diverse community initiatives in education, healthcare, the arts, and the environment. With over $71 million granted to date, it aims to strengthen communities and foster future generations. The foundation prioritizes requests from IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations while typically avoiding contributions to annual operational costs. Its commitment to impactful projects ensures a lasting positive influence both locally and globally.

The Oklahoma City Community Foundation administers the Kirschner Trusts, established to honor Phil and Roberta Kirschner's philanthropic legacy. These trusts focus on supporting young individuals with disabilities, Muskogee nonprofits, and Jewish causes. Since their transfer to the foundation in 2013, the trusts have continued to provide vital grants to organizations that align with the Kirschners’ values, ensuring their charitable impact persists in the community.

The Kettering Family Foundation, established in 1956, supports diverse charitable activities across various sectors, including arts, education, health, and human services. Applicants must have a valid 501(c)(3) status and discuss proposals with foundation staff before applying. Only one application is allowed per year, and specific exclusions apply, such as for religious purposes and individual grants. The foundation emphasizes meaningful community impact, making it a vital resource for eligible organizations.

The Dorsey & Whitney Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives in communities where Dorsey attorneys reside. Established in 1982, it focuses on organizations that provide legal services to the disadvantaged and engages attorneys in volunteer roles. Each year, around 200 direct grants are awarded across North America, alongside additional support for numerous other organizations through a matching program. This commitment highlights the foundation's dedication to cultural, civic, educational, and social welfare.

The Wilkes Community Foundation's Greater Wilkes Community Fund supports local nonprofits through competitive grants, addressing diverse community needs since 1994. With over $100,000 awarded, the fund focuses on education, health, and economic development. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $2,500, with total funding not exceeding $10,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local governments, fostering inclusive community support without discrimination.

The Granville County Community Foundation (GCCF) offers grants to nonprofits to support community enhancement. Established in 1997, GCCF allocates funds from its endowments, including the Martha Frances Pruitt Endowment Fund, to organizations meeting eligibility criteria such as being tax-exempt public charities or local government units. The foundation encourages diverse community programs while excluding funding for political purposes, loans, or general operating support for religious entities. This initiative aims to foster inclusive community development.

The Harnett County Community Foundation provides support to charitable organizations in North Carolina, particularly those addressing COVID-19 challenges. By forgoing the traditional grant cycle, the foundation aims to assist nonprofits in various sectors, including education, health, and the arts. This initiative aligns with its mission to enhance community welfare through philanthropy and direct action. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, ensuring broad support for local needs.

The Hoke County Community Foundation Grant Program, part of the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports charitable organizations across 67 counties. It offers funding for diverse purposes, including education, health, and arts. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, ensuring programs are accessible without discrimination. The program also includes the Mary Archie McNeill Endowment, specifically for music and cultural arts in Hoke County, with $12,650 available for grants.

The Futrell-Mauldin Community Fund for Greater Rocky Mount supports local nonprofit organizations by providing annual grants ranging from $500 to $7,500. Established in 2005, the fund is overseen by a local advisory board that identifies and addresses community needs. It encourages diverse organizations, including tax-exempt charities and local government units, to apply for funding to enhance the quality of life in the Rocky Mount area, promoting inclusivity and community engagement.

The Columbus County Community Foundation's Unrestricted Fund provides essential support to local nonprofit organizations in Columbus County. This fund allows the foundation to address evolving community needs through annual grants that enhance quality of life. With grant amounts typically ranging from $500 to $15,000, the foundation encourages a diverse range of projects to foster community growth and collaboration among nonprofits, aiming for impactful outcomes in literacy, food security, and human services.

The Currituck-Dare Community Foundation Grant, part of the North Carolina Community Foundation’s Community Grantmaking Program, supports charitable organizations across 67 counties. It funds diverse local needs such as education, health, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and local government units. Grants are not available for political purposes or operations restricted by faith. The foundation aims to enhance community welfare through philanthropic efforts.

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

The Unifour Foundation Endowment Fund, established in 1998, supports qualified charitable organizations in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties. With over $3 million awarded since 1991, grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. The fund prioritizes projects addressing early childhood education, mental health, and community needs like housing and food insecurity. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and local government units, with applications open to those serving the designated areas.

The Ramble Charitable Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Buncombe County by supporting projects in education, economic development, and health care. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 for nonprofit organizations and public agencies. Priority is given to initiatives that provide substantial community benefits, with a focus on the Shiloh and South Buncombe areas. Projects must be completed within a year, and only one application per eligible organization is allowed annually.

The Black Mountain-Swannanoa Valley Endowment Fund supports charitable organizations in the Swannanoa Valley, focusing on health, education, and wellness. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 for innovative projects and programs. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities and governmental bodies within the Owen School District. The Fund emphasizes projects that can be completed within a year but prioritizes requests for ongoing support less favorably. Endorsements are required if another organization benefits.

The Cashiers Community Fund Grant, provided by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, aims to enhance the quality of life in Cashiers by supporting nonprofit and public agency projects. Grants range from $2,500 to $12,500, focusing on charitable purposes like programmatic needs and capital campaigns. Eligible organizations must be established in Cashiers and can submit one application annually. The Fund prioritizes requests demonstrating significant community benefit.

The Melvin R. Lane Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, aims to empower nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to individuals in need. Grants ranging from $90,000 to $180,000 are available over three years to help improve operations, develop partnerships, and ensure financial stability. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities with at least three years of operation, located in specific WNC counties, and have an operating budget of over $100,000.