Merancas Foundation Grants

Merancas Foundation Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Merancas Foundation
Last Updated: January 03, 2026

Summary

The Merancas Foundation, established in 1989, is a private foundation based in Charlotte, NC. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on providing pathways to self-sufficiency and helping individuals in crisis. Grants are available for initiatives in education, housing, and wellbeing within specific geographic areas, including Atlanta, Charlotte, and Trenton. The foundation aims to empower communities while ensuring that its support aligns with its mission and values.

Overview

Note: For: Pre-approved Applicants and Current Partners: The Merancas Foundation only accepts GRANT PROPOSALS from pre-approved applicants and current partners. If you have received an “Access Code” to complete the full application, please begin your GRANT PROPOSAL by clicking the “Log In” button below and accessing your organization’s portal.For: Potential and Not Yet Approved Applicants: The Merancas Foundation is always interested in learning more about nonprofit organizations and programs that strongly align with our charitable scope. You may submit an ARE WE A MATCH (AWM) REQUEST on our grant portal at any time during the year by clicking the “Log In” button below to create an account for your organization and complete an application. History The Merancas Foundation was founded by Anke and Casey Mermans in 1989. The couple was bothered to see people work hard yet not be able to afford a basic living. They knew they could help make a difference in the lives of those in need. Guided by the principle that philanthropy should be an investment in our communities, The Merancas Foundation has sought out partners that can deliver services to deserving individuals and families. While we understand that the frameworks of poverty and opportunity are complex, we are committed to continue investing in our communities as long as we have the resources to do so. Please read our mission, vision, and values to understand how we plan to tackle these challenges going forward. About Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, The Merancas Foundation is a private foundation guided by the belief that anyone who works hard should be able to achieve a sustainable living. The Foundation invests in local nonprofits that support those in crisis, provide pathways for adults to achieve self-sufficiency, and help children reach their greatest potential. Guidelines While we recognize the importance of the many nonprofit organizations in our service areas, The Merancas Foundation is focused only on providing grants to organizations that fulfill its mission through programs and services.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. 501 (c)(3) nonprofit status must be in good standing.Programming and services must only be located in the following geographic focus areas:Atlanta, GACharlotte, NCTrenton, NJRequests must only address our core interests:Education: We support educational initiatives from early childhood to adult career education which provide pathways to economic mobility.Housing: We support a collaborative approach to affordable housing which addresses critical needs from emergency shelter to permanent solutions.Wellbeing: We support inter-connective services which empowers individuals, families, and their communities to improve their lives.As the Foundation is aware that good charitable work is performed by many religious organizations, the Foundation may support specific programs of these organizations that fall within our charitable scope provided that these programs do not promote, require participation, or serve as a gateway to any specific religious beliefs.At this time, Atlanta is only accepting inquiries that align with our “education” core interest; Are We A Match applications addressing other core interests will be denied.

Ineligibility

The Foundation does not award grants to individuals; political, religious, arts, fraternal, or civic organizations; sponsorships; events; or other foundations.