Best Youth Sports Grants in North Carolina

The Tom and Bruce Shinn Fund, established by the North Carolina Native Plant Society, supports U.S. students at North Carolina colleges engaged in research on native plants and habitats. Grants up to $1000 are available for projects like floristic inventories, endangered species preservation, and community ecology studies. This initiative honors Tom and Bruce Shinn, who were dedicated to native plant conservation and education, promoting sustainable practices in horticulture and ecology.

The Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ) in North Carolina offers $55 million in funding for local governments to rebuild infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Helene. It aims to assist small businesses by restoring vital services, enhancing customer access, and supporting economic recovery. Local governments can apply starting May 1, 2025, to fund projects that serve businesses with 150 or fewer employees, ensuring they can resume operations and contribute to community resilience.

The Roberts-Miller Children's Fund, administered by the Gaston Community Foundation, is dedicated to providing financial assistance to children under 18 in North Carolina facing serious medical, dental, or related needs. This fund aims to support those who lack access to necessary services due to financial constraints. Additionally, it extends support to organizations aiding these children, ensuring that essential care and equipment are accessible to those most in need.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The Chapel of the Cross Seed Fund aims to foster innovative community initiatives that may not have been possible without this support. By providing funding for new programs, the Seed Fund encourages parishioners and the broader community to engage in meaningful service. Each year, one grant is awarded, with applications opening in spring and recipients announced in fall. This initiative seeks to create a lasting impact and inspire further community involvement.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Engineering - New Program In Partnership With Ardagh Group

Ardagh Group has partnered with PLTW to support education in its local communities where Ardagh employees live and work. This partnership recognizes the critical role education, and access to education, plays in ensuring equal opportunities and in building successful, vibrant communities. It is expected that over the next 10 years, Ardagh sponsored education programs will benefit more than 500,000 PreK-12 students as well as delivering best-in-class teacher training to more than 5,000 teachers across 2,000 schools in Ardagh's U.S. communities.

Ardagh is a global supplier of sustainable packaging solutions with 16,000+ employees worldwide, and proud local employer.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's implementation of the PLTW Engineering program. Grantee must offer the PLTW Engineering program for three academic years. Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete three years of grant reporting.

The George and Bonnie Siek Memorial Scholarship Endowment, managed by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports graduates from Macon County high schools, particularly from the Town of Highlands, who wish to pursue higher education. Selection criteria include academic performance and extracurricular activities, with a focus on students studying English, Linguistics, or Education. This scholarship may be renewed for up to four years for undergraduates maintaining a 2.8 GPA, honoring the Sieks' commitment to education and community enrichment.

The Theodore P. (Ted) Minor Memorial Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, supports graduating seniors from Chicopee high schools. This fund is part of a broader scholarship program that provides financial assistance to eligible students from multiple counties, helping to offset costs associated with attending accredited post-secondary institutions. By promoting accessibility to education, the scholarship aims to enrich the lives of students in the community.

The Gene L. Reese Scholarship Endowment, established to honor Dr. Gene L. Reese, provides financial assistance to students pursuing dental auxiliary careers in the High Country community. With a focus on high school students and graduates from Tarheel Study Club counties, the scholarship aims to address the growing need for skilled dental professionals. Since its inception, it has awarded nearly $17,000 to help deserving students achieve their educational goals, contributing to the future of dental care in the region.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Daniel Arnold Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Daniel Arnold, killed in action in Iraq in September, 2005. Provides a college scholarship for a student who has excelled in athletics and has exhibited patriotism for the United States.

The Fred and Betty Worsh Scholarship Fund, managed by the North Carolina Community Foundation, offers financial support to residents of New Hanover and Brunswick Counties who are U.S. citizens attending accredited four-year colleges or universities. Scholarships are available to undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students, and may be renewed annually based on academic performance and financial need. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026.

The Elizabeth City Jaycees Scholarship Endowment offers financial assistance to graduating seniors from high schools in Camden, Chowan, Gates, Pasquotank, and Perquimans Counties. Eligible students must enroll full-time in a four-year accredited institution or specific community colleges. Applicants should demonstrate a GPA of 3.0 or above, financial need, and a commitment to community service. This scholarship aims to support students in achieving their educational goals while contributing to their communities.

The John & Ruth Blue Scholarship Endowment, established in 2001 by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports graduates from Watauga County high schools and residents from specialized academic institutions. This scholarship aims to empower students who excel academically, demonstrate physical vigor, and exhibit leadership in their communities. Recipients can receive up to four annual distributions if they maintain strong academic performance while pursuing a four-year college degree, fostering a legacy of educational excellence.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Gil Depew Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Depew to provide a college scholarship for a diabetic student from one of the six Susquehanna County high schools.

The Julia Hunt Endowment, established by the North Carolina Community Foundation, provides scholarships for Swain County residents pursuing higher education. Applicants must demonstrate meaningful volunteer experience within the county and submit the NCCF Standard Scholarship Application. This scholarship honors Julia Hunt's commitment to community service, highlighting the importance of giving back. It encourages students to reflect leadership and generosity, fostering a spirit of lifelong volunteerism and support for local needs.

The Katie Dunn Rogers Scholarship, administered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports African American female students from public high schools in Wake County who plan to pursue higher education at colleges or accredited trade schools. Emphasizing financial need and character strength, this scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals, fostering a commitment to education and personal growth in their chosen fields.

The Lane Meyer Scholarship Fund, managed by the North Carolina Community Foundation, honors students from Wake Forest and Rolesville High Schools who exemplify excellence in academics, athletics, and community service. Applicants must be members of the Wake Forest-Rolesville High School Soccer Team and demonstrate leadership and spirit in both school and community activities. This scholarship aims to support those who embody Lane Meyer’s legacy and contribute positively to their peers and communities.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Lawrence & Phyllis DeWolfe Scholarship

Established by the family and friends of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence DeWolfe to provide college scholarships to graduating seniors from Blue Ridge, Lackawanna Trail, and Mountain View school districts who will major in agriculture, education, a STEM field or law enforcement.

The Madison County Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Endowment, supported by the North Carolina Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to residents of Madison County who plan to enroll full-time in accredited higher education institutions. Applicants must have resided in Madison County for at least one year and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. A required essay will discuss economic changes in the county over the past five years and the applicant's vision for its future.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Thomas Conaty Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Conaty to provide a college or post-secondary degree program scholarship to a student from Blue Ridge, Elk Lake or Montrose Area School Districts, including home schooled students from those districts. Preference will be given to a student who will pursue a degree in business or a related field.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Robert and Diane Turrell Family Scholarship

Established by Robert and Diane Hill Turrell. Provides a post-secondary scholarship to a high school graduate who is a student of good moral character and who demonstrates financial need through their Student Aid Report. Students from Lackawanna Trail, Tunkhannock, Elk Lake, Homeschooled and Wyalusing Valley High Schools may apply. Priority will be given to students living in Habitat for Humanity Housing. The recipient may re-apply during each of the remaining years of undergraduate study until reaching the age of 25.

The Scholarships for Careers Endowment, established by a local family in connection with the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains, aims to support graduates of Elk Lake School District and the Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need and promise for future success, assisting them in pursuing vocational, technical, academic, or other post-secondary programs. Additionally, it contributes to special projects within the school district and community.

The Pineland College/Edwards Military Institute Scholarship Endowment, established by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from Sampson County aiming for higher education. Selection criteria include character, academic achievement, financial need, and community service. Preference is given to applicants with family ties to the former Pineland College or Edwards Military Institute. This scholarship exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for local students.

The Meredith Griffin Revels Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports Martin County residents pursuing degrees in nursing or related medical fields. Established to promote academic success, this scholarship prioritizes applicants based on their academic achievements and financial needs. With a mission to strengthen local communities through philanthropy, the Foundation ensures that education remains accessible to all students, fostering a brighter future for healthcare in the region.

The Michelle S. Hedrick Teacher Scholarship, offered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Randolph County high schools who are pursuing K-12 education degrees at accredited institutions. This scholarship honors Michelle Sweeney Hedrick's legacy by rewarding students who demonstrate a strong passion for education, ensuring that future educators are encouraged and supported in their academic pursuits.

SparkForce: The FMA Foundation

Formerly known as Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs (or NBT), SparkForce is the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association. While our name has changed, our mission has not. Our purpose is to inspire, attract, and support individuals in discovering an interest in manufacturing and to encourage their pursuit of a manufacturing career.

2020 marked the 50th Anniversary of FMA. Started by one man and his vision, FMA has transformed into an association dedicated to helping metal manufacturers thrive and move the industry forward.

Scholarships

SparkForce, The FMA Foundation, awards scholarships twice each year to students pursuing degrees or certifications related to manufacturing careers.

3 Scholarship Awards, 1 Application

• Community College, Trade School, or University; The U.K. Gupta & Family Scholarship; and The John Grossheim Memorial Scholarship.

Scholarship funds can be used to cover tuition, school fees, books purchased through the college store, and required tools or equipment such as PPE (if available for purchase through the college store). Funds cannot be used for housing, meals, or costs unrelated to the program.

FMA Scholarship: Community College, Trade School, or University

Open to eligible students pursuing degrees or certifications related to a career in manufacturing.