Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.

The Kids’ Chance of America: Emergency Grant Program aims to provide essential support to state organizations facing unexpected challenges in funding scholarships for children of injured workers. This initiative ensures that these children can continue their education despite unforeseen financial hardships. Grants can be utilized for scholarships, room, board, and educational fees, emphasizing the importance of maintaining educational support for deserving students during the 2023-2024 academic year.

The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.

About Us

Our mission is to serve as a catalyst in maximizing the skills and creativity of educators at the K-12 levels and in cultivating pioneering approaches to teaching that result in dynamic student learning.

The McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation sponsors proposals that enhance student learning and educational quality, paying particular attention to those that best serve the at-risk and under-funded, including:

• Curriculum that excites and challenges
• Inquiry projects that promote reflection and growth
• After-school programs that enrich and inspire

The Foundation partners with individuals to expand educational opportunities for America’s youth that inspire students by nurturing their curiosity about the world and their place in it. Funding includes scholarships that provide far more than just tuition and books; grants that benefit the lives of more than just those who receive them; and results that reach far beyond the classroom in which the projects are introduced.

Student Teaching Scholarships/Mentoring

Designed to instill a lifelong, passionate commitment to education and learning at the highest level, McCarthey Dressman scholarships offer financial and mentoring support to educators who will be student teaching in their final year of a qualified teacher education program. Foundation mentors offer one-on-one guidance and attention to nurture the next generation of teachers. Scholarship recipients acquire and strengthen exemplary teaching practices that promote learning by their own students.

The Foundation awards one-year scholarships in the amount of $6,000 each to college students enrolled in teacher education programs at New Mexico State University; the University of California, Santa Cruz; The University of Texas at Austin; and Stephen F. Austin State University.

Consider applying for this scholarship if... 

• you are interested in maximizing your student teaching experience
• you believe that working with a mentor would add to your training experience
• you can provide documentation of financial need for the year in which you will be student teaching

The Tree City USA Growth Award, presented by the National Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities that demonstrate exceptional tree care and engagement. Eligible communities, including towns and cities, must document at least 10 points from various sustainable forestry activities to qualify. This award not only celebrates current efforts but also encourages ongoing commitment to enhancing urban green spaces, ensuring healthier and vibrant environments for future generations.

U.S. Writers Aid Initiative

PEN America is an organization of writers and their allies, and that solidarity is never more important than when members of our literary community face crises. PEN America’s U.S. Writers Aid Initiative, part of the PEN America Writers Emergency Fund, offers grants for writers in the United States facing acute financial need following an emergency situation.

The U.S. Writers Aid Initiative is intended to assist fiction and nonfiction authors, poets, playwrights, translators, and journalists in addressing short-term financial emergencies. To be eligible, applicants must be professional writers based in the United States, and be able to demonstrate that this one-time grant will be meaningful in helping address a short-term emergency situation. The fund is limited, and not every application can be supported.

Grant decisions are made on a quarterly basis by a volunteer committee of literary peers in consultation with PEN America staff, using the following guidelines to evaluate professional credentials:

• Publication of one or more books. (Writers who are only self-published or published by a press that charges for publication are not eligible.)
• Multiple essays, short stories, or poems appearing in literary anthologies or literary journals (either online or in print) in the last two years.
• A full-length play, performed in a theater by a professional theater company. Productions in academic settings qualify if the author is not a student at the time of the production.
• Employment as a full-time professional journalist, columnist, or critic, or a record of consistent publication on a freelance basis in a range of outlets during the last two years.
• Contracted forthcoming books, essays, short stories, poems, or articles for which the name of the publisher can be provided.
• Other qualifications that support the applicant’s professional identity as a writer.

The AKC Rescue Grant, offered by the AKC Humane Fund, provides essential financial support to nonprofit organizations focused on canine rescue and welfare. Grants cover significant expenses such as veterinary care, spaying, and essential supplies. Eligible applicants include AKC Parent Clubs and 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to dog rescue. This grant aims to facilitate specific projects and operational needs while ensuring compliance with reporting requirements for awarded funds.

The Oleta Lambert Scholarship, established by the Rotary Club of Sacramento Foundation, aims to promote higher education and the spirit of Rotary. This annual scholarship honors long-time Rotarian Oleta Lambert and is open to high school students from Sacramento County pursuing studies at accredited universities or community colleges. By supporting local students, the Rotary Club reinforces its commitment to service and community enrichment, fostering educational opportunities and ethical standards.

The ANSWER Scholarship, offered by the College Foundation of North Carolina, provides financial support ranging from $2,750 to $5,500 for nontraditional female students aged 25 and older who are mothers of school-age children. This scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education in North Carolina, helping eligible women pursue their academic goals at both two-year and four-year institutions. It serves residents of specific counties, promoting educational advancement for families.

The James C. Gaither Junior Fellowships at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace offer approximately fourteen 10-12 month fellowships annually to graduating seniors or recent graduates. These fellowships enable Junior Fellows to assist senior associates with research, co-author publications, and engage with policymakers. To be eligible, applicants must be nominated by participating universities and must not have enrolled in graduate studies. This program aims to cultivate a new generation of policy experts committed to global peace.

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth's Helping Professions Grant provides essential financial support to residents of the Seacoast looking to enter or advance in direct care professions. With scholarships and grants of up to $5,000, this initiative aims to address the growing shortage of skilled caregivers, ensuring quality care for families and individuals in the community. Eligible applicants can pursue training in various in-demand roles, enhancing their skills and career prospects.

The Sullenberger Award for Courage, presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation, recognizes exemplary acts of bravery by graduates of the Academy. This prestigious award honors those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and service, reflecting the core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. Nominations can be submitted by anyone, and the award celebrates acts that positively impact the Academy and its legacy.

The Make Your Mark Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, has awarded over $11.9 million since 1983, supporting female and non-binary students in Northeast Connecticut. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, this scholarship encourages young individuals to pursue their educational goals and seize opportunities for success. Applications are due by August 1, ensuring timely support for students embarking on their academic journeys.

The Latin Network for the Visual Arts Scholarship, established by Mimi and Gaston Daumy, supports New London County students pursuing degrees in fine arts. With an award amount of approximately $1,600, scholarships are paid directly to colleges by August 1. Preference is given to students with ancestral ties to Romance language countries, including French, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, and Spanish. This initiative has been part of the Community Foundation's commitment to educational support since 1983.

The John T. Savage Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated agriculturalist and public servant, supports students from Brooklyn, Eastford, Pomfret, Union, and Woodstock. With an award of $1,500, this scholarship aims to assist those pursuing education in politics or agriculture. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has provided over $11.9 million in scholarships, reinforcing its commitment to local education and community development.

The John Ostrom Enders II Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards $4,000 to graduating seniors from East Lyme, New London, or Waterford High School. This scholarship supports students with a strong commitment to the creative arts and community service. Since 1983, the Foundation has distributed over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students pursue higher education and rewarding careers.

The John F. O'Brien, Jr. Scholarship, established in memory of a World War II veteran, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing a healthcare degree and facing financial need. Since its inception in 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals. With an approximate award of $500, this scholarship ensures that deserving students can access the necessary resources for their college education.

The Hendel Family Association Scholarship, established in 1983, offers a $2,500 award to New London High School students who have faced significant hardships. This scholarship aims to support students in their educational pursuits, with funds disbursed directly to colleges by August 1. The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut proudly administers this scholarship, contributing to its mission of enabling local students to achieve their academic goals.

The Apolonia Stanulis Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports college students residing in NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $300 to $1,500, this scholarship aims to empower students in their educational pursuits. NCCF is dedicated to fostering community development and connecting donors with local nonprofits, ensuring that the causes important to the community are championed effectively.

The William and Sally Vaun Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports local students pursuing degrees in medicine or environmental studies with an emphasis on ecology and conservation sciences. This scholarship provides an average award of $1,500 to eligible applicants from the NCCF's 20-town service area. The foundation is dedicated to championing community causes through thoughtful grant-making and scholarships, ensuring impactful support for future leaders.

The Tollar Family Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students from NCCF's 20-town service area pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. Offering a $4,000 award, this scholarship encourages local talent and fosters educational growth. It is designed for those dedicated to their academic journey, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder potential. This initiative exemplifies community support and commitment to education, empowering students to achieve their goals.

The SVNA Health Care Related Educational Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in healthcare (excluding pre-med) from specific towns. This scholarship provides $10,000 annually, renewable for up to five years, making it a significant opportunity for local students committed to making a difference in the healthcare field. The foundation emphasizes community engagement and smart grant-making to address local issues.

The Shepard Family Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students residing in NCCF's service area who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate education. With awards ranging from $300 to $1,500, this scholarship is also available for individuals in non-degree, adult education, or private primary and secondary programs. It reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community engagement.

The Helen and Mario Garbin Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students from NCCF's 20-town service area pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. With an average award of $500, this scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering education and community engagement. The foundation emphasizes attentive grant-making and collaboration to address local needs, ensuring that donors and organizations effectively work together for impactful results.

The Albert C. and Rose Turri Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students pursuing a degree in electronics or electrical engineering. Established in memory of Albert and Rose Turri, this scholarship awards two $1,000 grants to eligible students residing in NCCF's service area. It aims to empower local talents to achieve their educational goals while championing community causes through dedicated support.

The Altrusa Club of Dayton Ruth Richardson Scholarship honors Ruth Richardson, a dedicated educator who championed higher education for her students despite financial challenges. Established through her efforts in the 1980s, this scholarship supports Montgomery County high school seniors with a minimum 3.5 GPA and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their college dreams. The scholarship reflects Ruth's legacy of leadership and community service, empowering future generations to achieve their educational goals.

The Colleen O'Toole Memorial Scholarship, established in 1992, honors Colleen O'Toole's dedication to Dayton Power and Light. It provides financial assistance to children of full-time AES Ohio employees, helping to cover tuition costs. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship not only supports educational aspirations but also commemorates a valued employee who served her community faithfully for over 25 years.