The Endowment opens fall community grant cycle for New Hanover County organizations
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Endowment has opened the Fall 2026 cycle of its Community Grants Program, making up to $500,000 available to organizations serving residents of New Hanover County.
Applications open Monday, Aug. 10, and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 8.
The competitive grant program offers flexible awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for eligible organizations. The fall cycle is the second of two funding rounds this year, with a total of $1 million available through the program in 2026.
According to The Endowment, the Community Grants Program builds on a successful pilot launched in 2025 and supports projects aligned with its four funding priorities: Social and Health Equity, Education, Community Development, and Community Safety.
The organization expanded the program this year by increasing the maximum grant award from $5,000 to $15,000 and doubling the annual funding available.
“Following an energizing Spring cycle, we’re excited to see the great work of local organizations continue through the Fall,” said Sophie Dagenais, president and CEO of The Endowment. “The upcoming Fall Community Grants cycle is an opportunity to support the next wave of community-driven ideas. We encourage eligible organizations to apply and look forward to partnering with those working to improve the lives of people across New Hanover County.”
Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits, public charities, colleges and universities, and state, county and municipal public agencies that serve or benefit New Hanover County residents.
Shannon Wick, a network associate with The Endowment, said resources are available to help applicants throughout the process.
“Our website offers resources to support applicants throughout the grant application process,” Wick said. “For questions, email grants@theendowment.org or schedule a Fall Cycle Support Session. We also encourage community members and nonprofits to sign up for The Endowment’s newsletter and follow our website and social channels for updates on the Fall 2026 Community Grants Program.”
More information about eligibility, application resources and previous grant recipients is available on The Endowment’s website.
