WILMINGTON — One of the sectors of grants rolled out as part of The Endowment’s varied programs will increase its payout and evolve into two cycles in 2026.
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The Community Grants Program — which supports New Hanover County organizations of all sizes — will increase the maximum award to $15,000 next year, up from $5,000 during its pilot in 2025. There will be a $1-million cap, up from $500,000 last year — though that was for both community and capacity grants — according to spokesperson Amber Rogerson.
Sophie Dagenais, interim president and CEO, noted: “By widening the circle of support, and with larger awards, we want to enable more organizations to pursue solutions that deepen their impact and strengthen our community.”
The program will remain competitive. Last year, around 70 community grants were awarded, such as to Access Dental Care, given $5,000 for mobile dental services for older adults in New Hanover County. More than $4,500 went to the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees to distribute upward of 250 trees increasing canopy in underserved neighborhoods. Other awardees in 2025 included Cape Fear Literacy Council, City of Wilmington Police Department, Engine Angels and more.
Money from the Community Grants Program can help fund a project, program or event, expand an organization’s impact, enhance services, and overall help it build sustainability. Applicants that help propel The Endowment’s four pillars — social and health equity, education, community development, and community safety — are welcome to apply.
Funds will be doled out in two cycles. Applications for the first one opens in early 2026 and the second will open in fall. Organizations are allowed to submit one application per cycle.
“This approach ensures that the program provides meaningful support while encouraging innovative and collaborative proposals that address both immediate needs and long-term community resilience,” an Endowment press release indicates.
The Endowment offers technical support, step-by-step guides, webinars, and technical assistance during office hours for applicants.
Established from the sale of the county-owned New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2020, The Endowment was created from nearly $1.3 billion and has increased due to its investment portfolio. The organization will award millions in grants in perpetuity annually and so far has given out roughly $159 million to more than 350 organizations since its founding.
Learn more here.
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