The Endowment’s Community Grants Program provides financial support of up to $5,000 for programs, services, projects, or initiatives that align with its strategic pillars. These grants aim to enhance social and health equity, education, community safety, and community development. The program is designed to support organizations that contribute to the well-being of residents in New Hanover County and the surrounding region. Applications for the program open on March 3, 2025, with a submission deadline of April 4, 2025. Grant awards will be announced on May 28, 2025.

Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt organizations, such as nonprofits, public charities, universities, or public agencies at the state, county, or local level. Organizations that are not tax-exempt may still apply if they do so through a fiscal sponsorship arrangement with a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Additionally, all applicants must have a mailing address in New Hanover County and must demonstrate that their programs benefit residents in this area.

To apply, organizations must register and submit their applications through The Endowment’s grant portal. Required documentation includes the organization’s most recent IRS Form 990 (990-N, 990-EZ, or full 990), proof of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status (if applicable), audited financial statements or financial statements for the last two fiscal years, and a current list of board of directors. Applicants applying through a fiscal sponsor must provide these documents for the sponsoring entity.

The Endowment offers technical assistance to applicants to help them complete their applications. Office hours for assistance will be held from March 3, 2025, through March 31, 2025, on Mondays from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Wednesdays from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and Fridays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Interested applicants can reach out to Moussa Toure, Network Associate, for support during these designated times.

For more information, applicants can contact The Endowment at their Wilmington, North Carolina office. The organization can be reached at (910) 756-5990 or via email at information@theendowment.org and questions@theendowment.org.