Best Charlotte Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

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 Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Plus Collective offers Grassroots Grants to support organizations serving the LGBTQ+ community in Charlotte. These grants, capped at $5,000, aim to strengthen startup organizations and meet unmet needs not covered by other funding. Applications are reviewed continuously by the TPC Grants Committee. Priority is given to services promoting inclusion, leadership, and diverse engagement. Applicants must demonstrate a significant impact on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area and utilize grant funds solely within this region.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting children in need across the nation. With over $61 million granted since 1982, SCC is refocusing its efforts to address the urgent challenges of homelessness and human trafficking in the Charlotte area. This shift aims to prioritize funding for organizations that assist orphaned and foster children, ensuring that critical needs such as food, shelter, and education are met for vulnerable populations.

The ASC: Culture Blocks Grant Program for Organizations empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Charlotte-Mecklenburg to provide accessible arts, science, and history experiences in underserved neighborhoods. With a focus on community engagement, the program supports various cultural activities while ensuring they align with local needs. Funding is strictly for program-related expenses, promoting creativity and inclusivity without covering operational costs or salaries. This initiative is crucial for fostering community connection and enriching cultural expression through diverse programming.

The Merancas Foundation, established in 1989, is a private foundation based in Charlotte, NC. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on providing pathways to self-sufficiency and helping individuals in crisis. Grants are available for initiatives in education, housing, and wellbeing within specific geographic areas, including Atlanta, Charlotte, and Trenton. The foundation aims to empower communities while ensuring that its support aligns with its mission and values.

The Beyond Open Grants program aims to enhance economic mobility in Charlotte by providing financial support to diverse-owned small businesses, including those owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ individuals, and persons with disabilities. With over $16 million awarded to 402 businesses in previous rounds, this initiative focuses on funding capital assets without the burden of repayment. Approximately $5 million will be available in the upcoming round, continuing its commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Pew Biomedical Scholars Program offers significant funding of $300,000 over four years to support early-career researchers in biomedical sciences. The program encourages innovative and impactful research that contributes to human health, requiring nomination from one of the 212 participating institutions. Candidates must hold a doctorate, run an independent lab as an assistant professor, and demonstrate exceptional promise. This program fosters collaboration and annual meetings for scholars to present their findings.

The Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation's Social Capital Grants program aims to foster social capital, enhancing networks and opportunities for children, youth, and families in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. By supporting organizations that build trusting relationships and a culture of caring, the program promotes life navigation and access to essential resources. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and religious organizations, focusing on initiatives that create lasting impacts in the community.

The Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation's Family Stability Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of Mecklenburg County. By investing between $10,000-$50,000 in eligible organizations, the grant focuses on family formation, financial security, innovative housing solutions, and parental engagement. The foundation seeks to empower families through education, support, and resources, ultimately breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty and fostering community involvement.

The Arts Education Grants by the Arts & Science Council support nonprofit education departments in Mecklenburg County, focusing on high-quality arts and heritage programs for school-age children, especially in Title I schools. These grants aim to enhance access to arts education, promote student achievement, and foster creativity. By aligning with the City of Charlotte's Arts & Culture Plan and Mecklenburg County's strategic priorities, the program seeks to build a more vibrant community through educational opportunities and partnerships.

The Albemarle Foundation Impact Grants support local 501(c)(3) organizations within 50 miles of Albemarle Corporation locations, offering up to $15,000 in funding for community programs. Open twice a year, these grants aim to enhance workforce development, promote economic vitality, and foster inclusive communities. Eligible applicants can receive funding only once per calendar year. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that do not discriminate based on race, gender, or other protected categories.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) offers federal funding for security enhancements to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in high-risk areas, such as the Charlotte Area in North Carolina. With a focus on target hardening, organizations can apply for up to $150,000 per site to strengthen their defenses against potential terrorist threats. This program aims to integrate nonprofit security efforts with state and local preparedness initiatives, fostering collaboration among community and government entities.

The Gryphon Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America Inc., aims to support high school seniors and recent graduates from select metropolitan areas pursuing full-time undergraduate studies. With a focus on students demonstrating financial need, this initiative aligns with Scholarship America's mission to eliminate financial barriers to education. By fostering access and affordability for underserved communities, the program empowers students to achieve their academic goals while also promoting responsible debt management in their educational journey.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Plus Collective offers up to $25,000 in Programs, Projects, and Events (PPE) Grants to organizations serving the LGBTQ+ community in Charlotte. Grants aim to promote inclusion, leadership, and engagement among diverse populations. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply for direct grants of up to $5,000 or $7,500 when partnering with other organizations. The initiative prioritizes impactful projects that align with TPC's vision of community support and diversity.

The Plus Collective offers Basic Operating Grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that serve the LGBTQ+ community in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. These grants aim to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of local organizations, fostering diversity and inclusion. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their commitment to community support and can only apply for one grant during the annual cycle. Funding is prioritized for organizations that positively impact the LGBTQ+ population, ensuring resources are effectively utilized within the region.

The John and Charlotte Michael Family Memorial Scholarship, established in 1995 by The Dayton Foundation, honors the legacy of the Michael family by providing scholarships to students from Germantown, Farmersville, and Jefferson Township. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to philanthropy, community development, and educational support, ensuring that deserving students have access to opportunities that foster their academic and personal growth.

The Longleaf Fund Grant supports capital projects aimed at enhancing the lives of at-risk children and youth across the Carolinas. Focusing on building accessible play spaces, promoting educational technology, and improving environments for children with disabilities, this grant encourages community engagement and collaboration. Eligible projects must be completed within 12-18 months and demonstrate significant community support. The fund prioritizes initiatives that address the needs of vulnerable populations and can secure additional funding.

The Ally Charitable Foundation focuses on advancing economic mobility and reducing inequities through targeted grants. Their key areas include affordable housing, financial education, and workforce development, aiming to support nonprofit organizations that provide essential resources to underserved communities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits based in the U.S., demonstrating compliance with various guidelines and attesting to a non-discrimination policy. This strategic approach fosters impactful collaborations to inspire social change.

The Charlotte B. Proehl Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations primarily in the Greater Houston area. Focused on diverse program areas such as Animal Welfare, Arts and Culture, Education, and Health Services, this foundation prioritizes nonprofits recognized under IRS section 501(c)(3). Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations, as individuals are not permitted to apply directly. For more details, prospective applicants should explore the foundation's resources online.