Capacity Grants Program

The Capacity Grants Program helps organizations invest in their long-term success and sustainability. Recognizing that strong organizations build stronger communities, these grants support internal growth and organizational development.

Geographic Scope: New Hanover County, North Carolina

Strategic Focus Areas:

• Strategic planning
• Professional and leadership development
• Board development
• Financial stability initiatives
• Research and program evaluation
• Data organization
• Scholarly research and solutions to local challenges

Mission: By focusing on sustainability, The Endowment aims to help organizations not just survive but thrive.

Eligibility:

• Tax-exempt organizations (nonprofits, public charities, universities)
• Public agencies (state, county, local governments)
• Emerging nonprofits may qualify through fiscal sponsors or intermediary funders

What They Fund:

• Organizational capacity building and infrastructure
• Strategic planning initiatives
• Leadership and professional development
• Board development programs
• Financial sustainability improvements
• Research and evaluation activities
• Scholarly research and solutions to local challenges

Grant Requirements:

• Organizations must utilize awarded funds by December 31, 2025 (for 2025 round)
• Submit an impact report by January 30, 2026 (for 2025 round)
• Sign a grant agreement with The Endowment

Contact Information:

• The Endowment
• 115 N 3rd St Suite 400
• Wilmington, NC 28401
• Phone: (910) 756-5990
• Email: information@theendowment.org
• Website: www.theendowment.org

Background: The Endowment was established from the sale of the county-owned New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2020. The initial fund was nearly $1.3 billion. Grants will be awarded each year in perpetuity.

How to Apply

1. Register and Complete Application
   • Register and apply on The Endowment's grant portal at https://theendowment.org/grants/grantee-portal/
2. Required Documentation
   • IRS Form 990 (most recent fiscal year) - may be 990-N, 990-EZ, or 990
   • For nonprofits: proof of 501(c)(3) status
   • Most recent audited financial statements or financial statements for the last two fiscal years
   • Current board of directors list
   • Clear budget for the proposed capacity-building initiative
   • Supporting documents
3. Technical Assistance
   • The Endowment provides assistance during office hours:
   • Mondays: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
   • Wednesdays: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
   • Fridays: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
   • Contact: Moussa Toure, Network Associate
4. Application Submission
   • Submit all required materials through the grant portal by the deadline
   • A well-prepared application with clear budget and supporting documents helps streamline the process
5. Post-Award Requirements
   • Sign a grant agreement with The Endowment
   • Utilize awarded funds by December 31 of award year
   • Submit an impact report by January 30 of the following year