Future Canes Grants

The Carolina Hurricanes Foundation provides grant opportunities to nonprofit organizations committed to addressing the health and educational needs of children, with a special emphasis on underserved populations and youth hockey in North Carolina. Founded as the charitable arm of the Carolina Hurricanes professional hockey team, the Foundation directs resources to community-based programs that align with its dual mission of promoting children's wellbeing and supporting access to youth hockey throughout the state. Each year, the Foundation opens a grant cycle to accept proposals from eligible nonprofits seeking funding for initiatives that directly benefit children in North Carolina. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing with the IRS, have been in operation for at least three years, and deliver services in the state with a focus on health or education. Special consideration is given to those whose work targets underserved children and/or enhances youth hockey accessibility and development. The grant program does not provide support for general operating costs, staff salaries, capital campaigns, endowments, or reserve funds. Additionally, event sponsorships and fundraisers such as galas, awareness walks, and golf tournaments are not eligible for funding. Faith-based organizations such as churches, and other groups including PTAs, booster clubs, and political organizations, are also generally excluded from consideration. Successful grantees must be open to site visits, provide comprehensive use-of-funds summary reports, and acknowledge the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation as a funding source. The grant submission process is conducted through a straightforward application during the designated grant cycle. For 2026, applications are accepted from March 9 to April 10. Organizations are encouraged to apply during this window and ensure all required materials are submitted by the close date. While no pre-application materials or concept notes are mandated, applicants should be prepared for follow-up communication and possible site evaluations. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the Foundation’s mission, impact on underserved youth populations, focus on children's health and education, and ability to measure program effectiveness. Due to the competitive nature of the program and limited funds available, not all applications can be funded. However, applicants who are not selected are encouraged to reapply in subsequent cycles and explore other ways to engage with the Foundation. For questions regarding the application process or eligibility, interested applicants may contact the Foundation via email at [email protected]. The Foundation remains committed to the communities in which the Carolina Hurricanes team members live, work, and play, and strives to ensure that programs and partnerships reflect this dedication.

Clearly align with the Foundation’s mission and show direct service to underserved youth populations.