Best Youth Sports Grants in North Carolina

The Sunstate Equipment Foundation Grants support local charities focused on disadvantaged individuals, medical aid, housing assistance, domestic violence awareness, military and veterans' assistance, and care for abused animals. Founded in 2015, the foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that matches employee contributions dollar for dollar, reinforcing its commitment to community support and engagement. Charities in good standing can apply once every 12 months, fostering impactful initiatives where Sunstate operates.

The Lead Service Line Replacement Fund, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allocates $15 billion to assist communities in replacing lead service lines. It offers principal forgiveness loans to disadvantaged areas and low-interest loans for others. Eligible applicants include local governments and non-profit water companies. Funds can cover various activities such as the removal of lead lines, restoration of sites, and updating inventories. Applications are accepted year-round, with awards made quarterly.

The Merger/Regionalization Feasibility Grants, established by Session Law 2015-241, aim to support local government units and nonprofit water corporations in evaluating the consolidation of water and wastewater systems. Grants, capped at $50,000 over three years, encourage proactive management and financing of utilities. Eligible projects include studies on potential system interconnections for regional water supply and wastewater treatment. Training is recommended for applicants to maximize grant benefits.

The Asset Inventory and Assessment Grants, established by Session Law 2015-241, aim to enhance the viability and proactive management of water and wastewater utilities. Grants can reach up to $150,000 over three years, available to local government units and nonprofit water corporations for projects such as asset inventory and critical asset condition assessments. Eligible applicants are encouraged to participate in training sessions, which are free of charge, to better navigate the grant application process.

The North Carolina Land and Water Fund (NCLWF) has been a cornerstone in conserving the state's natural resources since 1996, protecting over half a million acres and 3,000 miles of waterways. The Donation Mini-Grant Program offers up to $50,000 for stewardship and management costs of donated properties, emphasizing ecological preservation and public access. This initiative highlights NCLWF's commitment to enhancing North Carolina's water quality and cultural heritage, ensuring these vital resources are safeguarded for future generations.

The Arts in Rural Places Grant, offered by South Arts, aims to enhance access to the arts in rural and isolated communities across nine southern states. Grants of up to $3,000 support public activities featuring Southern artists, requiring a dollar-for-dollar cash match. Eligible organizations must host at least two public events and engage a professional artist, promoting cultural engagement and artistic expression within these communities.

About Us

The Department connects businesses with the site locations, workforce and infrastructure they need to succeed in one of the nation's top states for business. We also connect local communities with the grants and funding they need to attract new business and ensure future prosperity.

Additionally, our executive branch agency administers the state’s economic incentives program and publishes data, statistics, information and reports for those interested in our state’s economy.

Marketing North Carolina as a business and visitor destination is another function of the Department, and to handle this work we contract services from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), a public-private organization established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 2014.

North Carolina Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) - Demolition Program

Local governments can apply for funding to support demolition projects that result in industrial or commercial sites, using grant funds under the Community Development Block Grant program's Economic Development (ED) category.

Our department holds administrative responsibility for the CDBG program in North Carolina. Our Rural Economic Development Division (REDD) administers the CDBG-ED funds. State rules related to the CDBG program can be found in the North Carolina Administrative Code 4 NCAC 19L and specific ED rules are found at 4 NCAC 1K. Federal funds are made available annually through the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Purpose

Under the authority of Title I of the U. S. Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (as amended), the CDBG demolition program in North Carolina is designed to demolish vacant dilapidated industrial buildings and properties under the elimination of slums and blight national objective. The demolition activity is expected to create a site at which it can reasonably be expected new jobs and private sector investment will locate. Since the demolition activity is qualified under the slums and blight national objective, new job creation with a private employer does not require a legally binding contract. Jobs creation during the demolition phase of the grant should be collected for CDBG reporting purposes.

The Burroughs Wellcome Fund's Career Award for STEM Teachers honors exceptional educators in North Carolina public schools. Offering $175,000 over five years, this award supports teachers with proven success in STEM education and encourages professional development. Special consideration is given to those in challenging classrooms and efforts to integrate climate change into curricula. This initiative aims to enhance STEM education across the state by empowering teachers as leaders and change agents.

The Norfolk Southern Trades on Track SkillPointe Scholarship offers $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing trades education related to the rail industry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and focused on railway-related trades. With over 1,000 scholarships funded and a mission to close the skills gap, this initiative empowers individuals towards high-demand careers without requiring a four-year degree, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The Regional Child Care Health Consultative Services RFA aims to establish a statewide network of Child Care Health Consultants (CCHC) to enhance the safety and health of child care environments across North Carolina. With a funding cycle of two years and up to $1.5 million available, the initiative seeks qualified applicants who can demonstrate expertise in managing state grants and providing technical assistance in early childhood education. The focus is on creating culturally inclusive practices and ensuring optimal health care for children.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is offering a two-year funding opportunity to enhance access to child care for families experiencing homelessness. This initiative aims to provide essential training and technical assistance to child care providers, ensuring they can support these vulnerable families effectively. With a total funding limit of $700,000, the program seeks to address the complex needs of children and families facing homelessness, promoting collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

The GHSP Community Grants program, managed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, aims to enhance highway safety. Funding is available for law enforcement, local governments, and nonprofits working to reduce traffic-related incidents. Key focus areas include drunken driving, seat belt safety, and services for young drivers. Eligible organizations must submit a Conflict of Interest policy and certification of no overdue taxes. Note that certain items, such as speed display signs and body cameras, are not eligible for funding.

The Youth Sports Grant - Host Funding provides up to $25,000 to support nonprofessional youth sports teams and events in North Carolina. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and funds can be used for attracting various sporting events and programs. Eligible applicants include city, county, and local school units or 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The application process will soon transition to an online portal, ensuring a streamlined submission experience for future applicants.

The Go Outside (GO) Grants offer funding up to $15,000 for North Carolina K-12 schools and nonprofit organizations to enhance outdoor learning experiences. While applications are open, funding is contingent upon state support. The grants are dedicated to projects like outdoor classrooms and gardens that promote education and recreation for underserved youth aged 4-18. However, indoor activities and non-educational projects may not be funded.

The NCVMA Public and Private Animal Shelter Fund provides a one-time grant of up to $2500 to support public and private animal shelters in North Carolina. This initiative aims to enhance the health and welfare of animals by assisting shelters in making necessary repairs and ensuring compliance with state inspection guidelines. Eligible applicants include animal shelters defined by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, focusing on upgrades that benefit animal welfare.

The NCVMA High 5 Grant offers $25,000 annually to support organizations that enhance community service and welfare for people and animals in North Carolina. This initiative, led by the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association, aims to promote educational projects with veterinary involvement. Grants of up to $5,000 each are available to qualified applicants, with a preference for those demonstrating fiscal responsibility and past successes. This program reflects NCVMA's commitment to veterinary excellence and community advocacy.

The Go Outside (GO) Grants support North Carolina educators in providing students with outdoor learning experiences through field trips and visiting programs. Funding ranges from $3,000 for single-day trips to $5,000 for overnight excursions, encouraging exploration of parks and recreation areas. Applications are currently open, but funding is contingent on state allocations, with a recommendation to schedule activities after July 2025.

The Go Outside (GO) Grants provide North Carolina K-12 schools and nonprofit organizations funding for outdoor educational experiences, including field trips and visiting programs. With grants of up to $2,500, educators can enhance outdoor learning through activities involving aquariums, zoos, and STEM organizations. While applications are currently open, funding is contingent upon state funding availability, and applicants are advised to plan for dates no earlier than July 2025.

The B.W. Wells Stewardship Fund, established in honor of renowned North Carolina plant ecologist Bertram Whittier Wells, aims to promote the conservation and enjoyment of native plants and their habitats. The fund supports various projects including the installation of native gardens and public education initiatives. Grants of up to $1000 are available for organizations involved in ecological management and educational outreach, fostering a deeper appreciation for North Carolina's unique flora.

The Alice Zawadzki Land Conservation Fund, named in honor of a dedicated conservationist, supports the preservation of North Carolina's native plants and habitats. Annually, the fund provides grants of up to $3,000 for various land conservation projects, including purchases and surveys. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and land conservancies focused on conserving native plant habitats. This initiative continues Alice's legacy of promoting environmental stewardship through education and advocacy.

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 Indian Education Formula Grants, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, aim to support the educational needs of American Indian and Alaska Native students. This program assists local educational agencies, tribes, and organizations in meeting state academic standards through various initiatives like after-school programs, tutoring, and enrichment activities. Eligible entities include certain local educational agencies, schools funded by the Bureau of Indian Education, and Indian organizations. Grants aim to supplement regular educational programs.

The North Carolina License to Give Trust Fund offers Fast Track Grants to non-profit organizations for projects under 12 months. Designed to enhance organ and tissue donation awareness and advance care planning, grants up to $10,000 support educational initiatives to improve donation rates in North Carolina. Eligible applicants include various non-profits, such as organ procurement organizations and educational institutions, providing crucial resources to address community health needs.

The Education and Workforce Innovation Program Fund aims to enhance educational outcomes by fostering partnerships between schools and local businesses or higher education institutions. This initiative supports schools in preparing students for career and college readiness through innovative programs. Grants of up to $60,000 are available to eligible public school units and regional partnerships. By engaging with community colleges or universities, the program seeks to create meaningful educational experiences that bridge academic learning with real-world applications.

The ASB Research Award (Professional), offered by the Association of Southeastern Biologists, honors outstanding research by professional members (not students) with a $1000 grant. Applicants must be the primary author of a manuscript published after the last ASB annual meeting and must present their findings at the upcoming annual meeting. The awardee is recognized at the Closing Banquet, emphasizing the importance of attendance. This initiative promotes scientific advancement and networking among biology professionals.