Building a Better New Hanover Community
For all

See Our Grantees

Endowment Facts – By the Numbers

A snapshot of The Endowment’s investments, strategic initiatives, and real results. See how we’re driving change and strengthening our community, one number at a time.

2026 Spring Cycle Community Grants

See Our Quarterly Reports

409

Cumulative Grants (Since Inception)

$190M

Cumulative Awards (Since Inception)

46

2026 New Grants Awarded

$35.4M

2026 Budget Committed

The Endowment is partnering with the Charles Koch Foundation, the Lennar Foundation, and the Building Talent Foundation to expand access to high-quality workforce training for residents through a $370,000 grant to Cape Fear Community College Foundation, including a grant from Live Oak Bank. The investment will support implementation of the Lennar Foundation Construction Trades Program at CFCC’s North Campus, equipping participants with foundational skills for entry-level careers in the construction industry.

View the full announcement HERE

Save the Date!

Public Meeting & Board Listening Session

The Endowment’s Board of Directors invites the New Hanover County community to join us for our semiannual public meeting and listening session.

🗓 Wednesday, June 3, 2026
🕠 5:30–7:30 p.m.
🚪 Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
📍 Minnie Evans Performing Arts Center
555 Halyburton Memorial Parkway, Wilmington, NC 28412

Come learn about the latest updates at The Endowment, share your insights, and help shape our work through your feedback.

❓Questions? Ask them during the session or send them in advance to communications@theendowment.org.

 

The City of Wilmington, New Hanover County, and The Endowment are pleased to announce a collaborative investment to support the City’s acquisition and preservation of approximately 25 acres of green space off Greenville Loop Road for the development of a public park.

Learn more about this collaborative investment HERE

Stability, Continuity, and Long Term Vision

The Endowment Board Names Sophie Dagenais President and CEO

Guiding The Endowment with stability, continuity, and long-term vision.

Check out the full announcement HERE

NEWS

Stay informed with the latest updates from The Endowment. From major announcements to community impact stories, our news and press releases keep you connected to the work shaping our region’s future.

Mission Statement

To improve the health, education, safety, and economic opportunity of every person in our community.

Learn More About Us

Our Vision

To transform our community so all will thrive.

Our Strategic Plan

We strive to build a community that is just and inclusive. Our commitment to equity is at the core of who we are and serves as a guiding principle that shapes our work. We aspire to build a community where all voices are heard, all barriers are faced and where all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and build a better life. We are committed to the work that is required to build a community that values and supports the humanity of all people.

2026-2030 Strategic Plan

Our Four Pillars of Focus

Providing or improving access to resources for optimal health and well-being; advancing programs and initiatives that promote access to resources, and equitable opportunities for all members of our community.

Delivering or enhancing educational opportunities, access to learning resources, and skill-building opportunities; investing in innovative learning opportunities to ensure all students in New Hanover County have access to quality education, resources, and pathways to success.

Helping to create safe and supportive environments for all residents; strengthening neighborhood initiatives and partnerships, and promoting community resilience and engagement.

Promoting economic and community development, creating welcoming environments, and fostering community cohesion; supporting economic growth, affordable housing, and infrastructure improvements to build a thriving and sustainable community.

Newsletter

Stay connected with The Endowment and be the first to know about grant opportunities, impact stories, and event updates. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive insights and resources that support our mission. Sign up today!

"*" indicates required fields

Name