Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The McGraw Foundation offers annual grants to not-for-profit organizations, primarily in the greater Chicago area, focusing on education, conservation, and human services. Grant amounts typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with larger grants available for particularly impactful projects. While supporting diverse initiatives, the Foundation does not fund individuals or specific events. Organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS regulations to qualify for funding. The Foundation encourages innovative approaches and partnerships in grant applications.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship, honors a graduate student dedicated to advancing research in drinking water quality, environmental science, and public health. Established in 2020 by the American Water Works Association, this $3,000 scholarship aims to support innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the water industry. By investing in future leaders, AWWA reinforces its commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all.

The Creating New Economies Fund (CNEF) Grant offers support for innovative projects that enhance community resources in rural areas. Funded by The Conservation Fund, the program has awarded over $6.8 million since 2001, fostering eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and more. Grants, averaging between $8,000 and $12,000, focus on engaging local communities, particularly marginalized groups, and addressing root causes of challenges like poverty and environmental issues. Applicants must consult with Resourceful Communities before applying.

The NC Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is a federal initiative by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service aimed at enhancing conservation practices on agricultural lands. It provides technical and financial assistance to farmers, allowing them to improve grazing conditions, increase crop resilience, and develop wildlife habitats. CSP encourages producers to adopt environmentally beneficial practices while receiving annual payments and support for contract renewals, fostering sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts across North Carolina.

The GSK IMPACT Awards in North Carolina honor outstanding nonprofit organizations making a significant impact on community health. This annual program, in partnership with the Triangle Community Foundation, recognizes up to ten organizations for their exemplary contributions to health and wellness. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to improving community health through innovative and effective programs. Eligible organizations must operate in the Triangle area and meet specific criteria regarding revenue and community impact.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Leon Levine Foundation, established in 1980, focuses on enhancing the human condition through investments in education, healthcare, and human services in North and South Carolina. The foundation seeks nonprofits with proven leadership and sustainable financial plans. They aim to create pathways to self-sufficiency and promote lasting change. LOIs are accepted year-round, and grant recipients must support an inclusive environment free from discrimination.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The NC Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) Grant, offered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and landowners for implementing conservation practices. Eligible participants can receive support for projects addressing natural resource concerns on their lands, with contracts lasting up to ten years. This program also prioritizes specific categories, including socially disadvantaged and beginning farmers, ensuring equitable access to conservation funding.

The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation invites eligible organizations to apply for the State-Level Systemic Change Grant. This grant supports initiatives aimed at creating lasting, systemic improvements across North Carolina. Emphasizing equity and inclusion, the Foundation seeks to address barriers faced by historically marginalized communities, ensuring access to quality education, a healthy environment, and economic opportunities. This grant aligns with the Foundation's mission to foster a thriving, equitable society for all North Carolinians.

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 Father's Table Foundation Grant aims to glorify God by addressing the immediate and future needs of women and children globally. This selective grant process emphasizes building self-sufficiency and resilience among beneficiaries, focusing on proven partners capable of expanding their impact. The foundation supports a diverse range of projects, including employment assistance, education, humanitarian aid, and health care, ensuring that aid not only meets urgent needs but also fosters long-term sustainability.

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.

North Carolina Sea Grant

Under executive director Susan White, North Carolina Sea Grant works with local, state, and national policymakers and scientists to co-produce critical projects in four focus areas: healthy coastal ecosystems, resilient communities and economies, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, and environmental literacy and workforce development. 

With significant returns on investment for coastal North Carolina, we forge partnerships and support research, education, and outreach. Funding opportunities include grants for established scientists and specialists, fellowships to develop the next generation of researchers and policymakers, and special collaborations that fuse community and academic expertise.

North Carolina Team Competition for Resilience Research

This funding opportunity, supported by North Carolina Sea Grant, provides awards to teams of North Carolina-based graduate and undergraduate students led by a PhD student. Winning teams will conduct hypothesis-based research projects that contribute to more resilient habitats and communities across North Carolina.

Research Focus Areas

Proposals must address at least one core aspect of resilience in North Carolina:

• Ecosystem Resilience
• Community Resilience
• Economic Resilience

The Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) supports small-scale research grants for institutions with limited NIH funding, emphasizing biomedical research experiences for undergraduates. Eligible institutions must award baccalaureate science degrees and have received no more than $6 million in NIH support over the past seven years. This initiative aims to enhance the research environment at these institutions, fostering student involvement in research activities.

The Joy W. Pope Memorial Grant Funds aim to promote innovative projects across North Carolina's arts and human services sectors. With awards of up to $100,000, the foundation supports initiatives that enhance community engagement and foster self-empowerment among citizens. Projects must be completed by the end of the granting year, and eligibility is limited to nonprofits in North Carolina. Notably, the grants exclude medical research and direct aid to individuals, focusing instead on sustainable community improvements.

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.

The Emerging Global Leader Award (K43) offers essential research support and protected time for early career scientists in low- and middle-income countries. This program, aligned with NIH's clinical trials policy, aims to cultivate independent research careers by providing mentorship and funding over three to five years. Eligible candidates must hold a junior faculty position at an accredited LMIC institution, fostering the growth of research capacity in their regions.

The Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award supports early career research scientists from low- or middle-income countries (LMIC) by providing research funding and mentored career development for three to five years. This program encourages LMIC scientists in health-related fields to develop projects aligned with their country's health priorities, fostering independent research careers within their institutions. Applications are welcomed from junior faculty members, enhancing global health research and capacity in LMICs.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

Biogen Corporate Sponsorships provide funding to support congresses, events, and initiatives in exchange for tangible benefits such as marketing opportunities and recognition. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and requests must be submitted 50 days in advance. Biogen considers various disease areas for sponsorship, including Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Approval depends on funding availability, alignment with interests, and event details, ensuring transparency for all potential sponsors.

The NC Biotechnology Center Fund Event and Meeting Grant provides vital financial support for events and meetings that enhance networking and information sharing within North Carolina's life sciences community. The grants include up to $3,000 for Biotechnology Event Sponsorships and up to $10,000 for Biotechnology Meeting Grants, catering to both local and international gatherings. This initiative aims to foster innovation and collaboration among researchers and companies, ultimately driving growth in the biotechnology sector.

The University Technology Development Funding: Innovation Impact Grant from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center supports the acquisition of shared use research equipment for core facilities at academic and nonprofit institutions. This funding aims to enhance the life sciences ecosystem in North Carolina by facilitating significant scientific advancements. Proposals with a strong impact on both the institution and the broader research community will be prioritized. A cash match is required, with funding requests up to $150,000.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Recent Retirees

Retirees of Regions and its affiliated companies are eligible for the Matching Gift Program for up to 5 years after retirement (the gift date must be within the first 5 years of retirement). Regions will match donations of $25 or more, up to a total of $1,000 per year per retiree.

The Regions Community Affairs team will contact the organization on your behalf to verify the gift and review eligibility.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations. 

The Cabarrus County Community Foundation Grant Cycle aims to enhance local initiatives through competitive grantmaking. The Foundation prioritizes projects that address community needs in areas such as Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Health, and Housing. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions serving Cabarrus County residents. Note that applications for specific food-related programs will not be accepted this year, as the focus is on sustainable food options and nutrition.

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.