The Dr. Richard W. Adams Charitable Foundation supports a variety of charitable initiatives, with a preference for projects related to medical science education, agriculture promotion, conservation efforts, and wildlife preservation. The foundation is administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and its mission is to enhance educational opportunities in the medical field, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and protect wildlife habitats.

Eligible applicants must be qualified as exempt governmental units or charitable organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. While there are no strict geographic restrictions, the foundation primarily supports initiatives within the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Importantly, the foundation does not make grants directly to individuals. Instead, grants are provided to organizations that align with its mission areas.

Priority consideration is given to specific types of requests, including those from Wake Forest University School of Medicine that support long-time residents of the Piedmont region intending to practice medicine locally. Additional preferences include organizations providing scholarships or funding for employees and family members of Davis Regional Medical Center in Statesville, North Carolina, particularly those pursuing education in medical sciences. Projects promoting agriculture, conservation, and wildlife preservation are also strong fits for funding.

Applications are accepted year-round but must be submitted by May 1 to be considered at the foundation’s annual grant review meeting. Applicants will receive an email confirming the receipt of their submission. Decisions are typically communicated by the end of the calendar year for applications received before the deadline. Funded projects may be subject to requirements for periodic progress and final reports.

Applications can be submitted online through the foundation's portal. There is no formal opening date since applications are continuously accepted, but May 1 remains the key deadline for consideration each year.