North Carolina Environment Grants

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) aims to provide financial assistance for major tourism capital projects. Its core mission is to increase patronage of lodging properties and further economic development within Buncombe County. The fund aligns with the broader goal of fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the region as a desirable destination. The target beneficiaries of the TPDF are non-profit organizations and government entities that develop major tourism capital projects. The impact goals are to create jobs, foster entrepreneurial opportunities, provide amenities for both residents and visitors, and ultimately increase overnight lodging stays in Buncombe County. Projects that directly increase lodging stays or support larger initiatives to do so are evaluated equally. The TPDF prioritizes capital investments, focusing on "brick and mortar" projects. Operational expenses are not considered for funding, though design fees already expended can count towards the required 1-to-1 funding match. Projects must be principally located in Buncombe County, demonstrate the ability to increase lodging patronage, and not solely benefit a single lodging owner or property. Applicants must also have legal control of the property and show how they will achieve a minimum 1-to-1 funding match. Expected outcomes include enhanced financial stability for requesting organizations, successful and sustainable project operations, and effective sales and marketing plans that draw visitation. The TPDF also seeks projects that differentiate the destination through brand alignment, uniqueness, and innovation, and those that promote the local creative sector. Measurable results are assessed by the ratio of overnight lodging generated to funding requested, and the project's ability to create new and incremental room nights, not just pull from existing visitors. Furthermore, the TPDF aligns with BCTDA’s strategic imperatives to deliver balanced recovery and sustainable growth by distributing visitors geographically and seasonally. Projects that encourage safe and responsible travel, and those that support engagement with and appeal to more diverse audiences, receive greater consideration. The overarching theory of change is that strategic capital investments in tourism infrastructure will lead to increased visitor numbers, economic benefits, and a more vibrant community, all while ensuring sustainable and equitable development.

The City of Salisbury is offering a neighborhood beautification grant of $1000 to $10,000, prioritizing projects that enhance visibility, utilize quality materials, introduce new amenities, and add lasting value to the neighborhood, with applications due by 09/30/2024.

The Great Trails State Program (GTSP) provides funding for new trail development and extension of existing trails within North Carolina. This includes paved trails, natural surface trails, biking trails, equestrian trails, and other types recognized by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. One grant cycle will distribute $25 million in non-recurring funds. Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, regional councils of government, public authorities, and nonprofits with local government support. Project types include planning and feasibility, design and engineering, acquisition, construction, and maintenance.

This funding opportunity is designed for organizations in specific regions to conduct research and monitoring of wood stork reproduction in the Everglades, focusing on the impacts of hydrological changes on their populations.

This funding initiative provides financial support to community-based organizations, local and tribal governments in eight southeastern states to address environmental justice issues and promote healthier environments.

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC) offers Human Services grants of up to $20,000, aimed at supporting programs and projects that deliver significant assistance to economically-disadvantaged individuals within mountain communities. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by this grant, is deeply rooted in addressing critical social needs and fostering well-being among vulnerable populations in its service area. This grant program directly aligns with a strategic priority to support human services and build stronger, more resilient communities by targeting the root causes and consequences of economic disadvantage. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are economically-disadvantaged people residing in selected WNC counties. The impact goals are to address timely community needs or opportunities, continue or expand proven programs, increase cooperation among service providers, build organizational capacity for self-sufficiency, and acquire equipment that provides immediate and substantial benefits. These goals collectively aim to improve the quality of life and opportunities for those facing economic hardship, reflecting a theory of change that by strengthening local service delivery and capacity, the foundation can create lasting positive change. The program prioritizes initiatives that are not currently being addressed by other agencies, those that replicate or expand successful models, and projects that enhance collaboration among providers. A significant focus is also placed on building the internal capacity of organizations, enabling them to operate more efficiently and sustainably, and on funding equipment that offers immediate and substantial benefits to the target population. These priorities demonstrate CFWNC's commitment to strategic, impactful funding that not only provides direct services but also strengthens the ecosystem of support for economically-disadvantaged individuals. Expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in the lives of economically-disadvantaged people, enhanced effectiveness and sustainability of human service organizations, and more coordinated and comprehensive community responses to pressing social needs. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the objectives imply a focus on quantifiable improvements in service delivery, access to resources, and organizational health. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly centered on maximizing community benefit through targeted investments in human services. Organizations are eligible if they focus on serving economically-disadvantaged people, are financially sustainable, hold 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or are governmental entities, and are located in and serve the specified WNC counties. The foundation explicitly does not fund general operating expenses (unless directly tied to the project), capital support for new buildings, recreational programs, private primary/secondary schools (with exceptions), festivals, scholarships, activities before grant decisions, sectarian religious purposes, partisan political purposes, endowment/deficit funding, or state/national organizations unless local benefits and leadership are demonstrated. This careful delineation of what is and isn't funded further clarifies the foundation's strategic focus and commitment to specific types of interventions.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to North Carolina entities for replacing older diesel vehicles and equipment with cleaner alternatives to reduce harmful emissions and promote cleaner air.

This program recognizes and rewards individuals, organizations, and students in Raleigh for their outstanding efforts in environmental stewardship, sustainability, and climate action.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, and Pender Counties that are addressing critical community issues such as food insecurity, human trafficking, and environmental sustainability.

The Municipal Service District Grant Program, offered by the City of Salisbury, provides financial assistance to commercial property owners and building tenants. This initiative aims to enhance building facades, landscapes, and parking lots, as well as facilitate the installation of new pedestrian elements within the Downtown Municipal Service District. The program's core mission aligns with urban revitalization and fostering a more attractive and pedestrian-friendly environment, contributing to the overall economic vitality and aesthetic appeal of the city center. The primary beneficiaries of this program are commercial property owners and business tenants operating within the Downtown Municipal Service District. The impact goals are to encourage significant improvements ranging from minor repairs and repainting to substantial rehabilitation projects. This includes the introduction of new pedestrian amenities, restoration of storefronts, and overall beautification, ultimately leading to an improved urban experience for residents and visitors alike. The program prioritizes a diverse range of projects designed to significantly enhance the public and commercial spaces. Key focus areas include the installation of new pedestrian amenities such as outdoor seating, planters, awnings, café fences, lighting, bicycle racks, and art. It also supports the installation of new façade elements (signage, lighting, awnings), painting of murals, ghost sign restoration, storefront rehabilitation, removal of false façades, and repairs to windows, doors, and architectural details. Furthermore, the program encourages green building improvements like solar panels, EV charging stations, green roofs, and white roofs, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a noticeable increase in the aesthetic quality and functionality of the downtown area. The 50/50 matching grant, with a maximum City participation of $5,000, ensures a shared investment and commitment to these enhancements. Success will be measured by the number and scope of completed projects, the visible improvements in building facades and public spaces, and the increased presence of pedestrian-friendly amenities, all contributing to a more vibrant and appealing urban core. The City of Salisbury's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this grant, center on enhancing the municipal service district through tangible improvements that benefit both businesses and the community. The theory of change suggests that by investing in the physical environment of the downtown area, the city will stimulate economic activity, improve quality of life, and strengthen community pride. This grant acts as a catalyst for private investment, aligning with a broader vision of sustainable urban development and community engagement.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to state agencies in six targeted states to improve regional preparedness and resilience against catastrophic events, focusing on housing, community resilience, and long-term vulnerability reduction.

This initiative provides funding and support to nonprofit organizations, local governments, and Tribal governments in coal-impacted communities to develop and scale innovative economic projects that create job opportunities and foster local economic transformation.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in New Hanover County that align their initiatives with the county's strategic goals and enhance community services.

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina offers Learning Links grants up to $1,000 for public school teachers in selected counties to implement hands-on, innovative learning projects that align with the curriculum and aim to increase student enthusiasm for learning.

This program provides financial assistance to marinas and boat docking facilities in North Carolina's coastal counties for installing or renovating sewage pumpout stations to improve water quality by reducing sewage discharge from recreational vessels.

This grant provides financial support and mentorship to early-stage cleantech entrepreneurs in the Midwest who are developing innovative solutions to promote economic growth and environmental sustainability.

This funding initiative provides financial support to graduate students conducting herpetological research focused on the conservation and management of reptiles and amphibians in the southeastern United States.

This grant provides funding to local governments in western North Carolina to improve waste management systems and recycling infrastructure in communities affected by Hurricane Helene.

This grant provides funding to public entities, nonprofits, academic institutions, and tribal governments for projects that support the conservation and recovery of at-risk wildlife species in Washington State.

This program provides matching funds to local governments in North Carolina for acquiring and developing public outdoor recreational spaces, such as parks and trails.