Best Quality of Life Grants in North Carolina

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.

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 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 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 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 Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Appalachian Region Healthcare Support Program aims to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas by providing technical assistance to organizations such as critical access hospitals and rural health clinics. By focusing on planning and implementing healthcare service improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the operational performance and quality of care within these communities, ultimately benefiting the residents served by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

The Innovative Approaches 2.0 initiative by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services aims to enhance community systems of care for children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). It focuses on family-driven systems change in areas like health care transition, emergency preparedness, and community accessibility. Grants of $132,400 will be awarded to five entities working across multiple counties to implement sustainable improvements that address the needs of CYSHCN and their families.

The Finish Line Grant program, administered by College Foundation, Inc., aims to assist community college students in North Carolina who are facing unexpected financial hardships that could hinder their education. This initiative provides crucial support for expenses such as housing, medical needs, and childcare. The program, which transitioned to state-appropriated funds in FY 2023-2024, seeks to empower students to overcome financial barriers and complete their academic goals.

The Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

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 Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

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 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 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 On Farm Housing Grant Program, managed by Alabama Non-Profit Housing, Inc., offers financial assistance to farmers and growers for upgrading existing labor housing. Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, the program provides matching grants up to $7,500, ensuring safe and sanitary living conditions for farm workers. Eligible participants must own housing in need of repairs that directly impact worker safety and health, with a commitment to match funds dollar-for-dollar.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The Student STEM Enrichment Program (SSEP) aims to enhance K-12 education in North Carolina by funding hands-on STEM activities for students. With grants up to $60,000 annually for three years, SSEP supports innovative programs that nurture students' interest in science and mathematics. It prioritizes partnerships among nonprofits and encourages projects that engage underrepresented communities. SSEP aims to develop students' skills and inspire future careers in STEM fields, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry.

The Carolina Bird Club offers ongoing Conservation Grants aimed at supporting the research, education, and conservation of birds and their habitats in the Carolinas. Grants are awarded for specific purposes, and recipients must obtain permission for any reallocation of funds. Applications must include detailed project plans, budgets, and identification of conservation needs, ensuring that the protection of birds and their environments is prioritized.

The NC Agricultural Conservation Easement Grant Program (ACEP) supports the purchase of Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) to protect eligible agricultural lands. This program helps maintain farming operations by conserving land and its ecological values. NRCS may contribute up to 50% of the fair market value for these easements, which are crucial for ensuring food supply sustainability while providing additional public benefits such as environmental quality and wildlife habitat.

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.

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grant, administered by the North Carolina State Parks, supports trail-related projects across the state. Funded through federal gas taxes, this initiative aims to enhance public access to safe and managed recreational trails. Eligible applicants include governmental and non-profit organizations, with a minimum match requirement of 25%. Projects must provide public access and remain open for at least ten years. The RTP promotes sustainable economic development through natural resource tourism.

The Department of Health and Human Services manages the delivery of health- and human-related services for all North Carolinians, especially our most vulnerable people – children, elderly, disabled and low-income families. The department works closely with health care professionals, community leaders and advocacy groups; local, state and federal entities; and many other stakeholders to make this happen.

State Designated Rural Health Centers Support Grant

Purpose: These grant funds, supported through the North Carolina General Assembly, allow ORH to partner with local communities to provide funding to improve their ability to serve underserved populations who would otherwise be unable to access needed primary care services due to geographic, economic, or other barriers. State Designated Rural Health Centers have become an integral part of the health care safety net for North Carolina’s rural and underserved residents.

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.