The Building an Inclusive Economy grant program is an initiative aimed at supporting organizations that focus on economic empowerment for Black households in Forsyth County, North Carolina. The program seeks to create an environment where these households have the necessary resources to support their families. The Winston-Salem Foundation administers this grant, which offers funding ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for projects that align with its objectives. The grant duration is set for one year, and the application deadline is October 14, 2024.

The primary purpose of the grant is to foster economic security and prosperity for Black households in Forsyth County. The program encourages proposals that create accessible pathways to high-paying careers, provide tools for wealth-building and financial stability, and support the growth of Black-owned businesses. The grant program is designed to rewrite the rules of economic engagement in the community, ensuring that Black families have the resources they need to thrive.

Funding under this grant can be allocated to various types of projects, including program or project grants, planning grants, collaboration grants, evaluation grants, research grants, and pilot programs. Program or project grants can support existing initiatives or help launch new ones. Planning grants are intended for developing or modifying programs to better serve Black populations. Collaboration grants fund cooperative projects that promise greater impact, while evaluation grants assess the effectiveness of existing or new programs. Research grants support social sciences research that addresses educational issues affecting Black communities, and pilot programs test the viability of new ideas on a small scale.

Eligibility for the grant is primarily focused on organizations that are dedicated to economic empowerment for Black households. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, higher education institutions, and faith-based organizations. Organizations without a 501(c)(3) status may partner with an eligible organization to serve as a fiscal agent. The program prioritizes Black-led organizations, those investing in predominantly Black neighborhoods, and initiatives that actively engage with the communities they aim to serve.

The application process requires organizations to submit a proposal that addresses one or more critical areas identified by the grant program. These areas include creating pathways to sustainable careers, providing financial stability tools, and supporting Black-owned businesses. The Winston-Salem Foundation encourages applicants to demonstrate how their projects will directly impact the Black community in Forsyth County.

Evaluation criteria for grant proposals will focus on the potential impact of the project, the engagement of the community, and the alignment with the program's objectives. The timeline for the grant application process includes a deadline for submissions on October 14, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should prepare their proposals in advance to ensure they meet the requirements and deadlines set forth by the grant program.

For further information, interested parties can contact Courtney Feliz at the Winston-Salem Foundation via email at cfeliz@wsfoundation.org or by phone at (336) 231-0508. The grant program represents a significant opportunity for organizations committed to fostering economic empowerment and creating lasting change in Forsyth County.