New Funding Strengthens Programs and Builds Capacity Across New Hanover County
Wilmington, NC – The Endowment today announced the awarding of 111 grants totaling $500,000 to nonprofit and community-serving organizations across New Hanover County. This inaugural round of 2025 grantmaking includes 70 Community Grants and 41 Capacity Grants, each providing up to $5,000 to support programs, projects, services, or initiatives that align with one or more of The Endowment’s pillars: Education, Social and Health Equity, Community Safety, and Community Development.
“These grants are more than just financial support, they are partnerships with the people and organizations working every day to improve lives in our community,” said Sophie Dagenais, Vice President of Programs and Grants. “From expanding access to essential services to seeding change, widening participation, and supporting organizational capacity, these grants are designed by community organizations to help them promote health, education, opportunity and safety in New Hanover County.”
Community Grants enable grassroots groups and organizations of all sizes to expand opportunities, services and programs for residents of all ages, help address basic needs and improve community or recreational spaces in communities throughout New Hanover County. Funded initiatives include summer enrichment activities and scholarships, youth development initiatives, health and wellness programs, the arts and cultural experiences, and neighborhood revitalization projects.
Capacity Grants assist with organizational and financial stability, improved governance, and growth. They help build or augment organization-level infrastructure and governance, including strategic planning, professional development, leadership development, board development, fundraising, and data organization efforts.
“Strong organizations build strong communities. These grants are about empowering nonprofits to grow and innovate,” said Dan Winslow, President & CEO of The Endowment.
More than 300 applications were submitted in this highly competitive round. All applications underwent a structured review and scoring process.
Grant funds must be used by December 31, 2025, with final impact reports due in early 2026. Grantees are encouraged to stay connected with The Endowment’s Programs and Grants team and continue sharing insights and solutions to strengthen the community.
Organizations aligned with The Endowment’s strategic priorities may be eligible for additional funding or collaborative opportunities in 2025 and beyond.
2025 Community and Capacity Grants List
About The Endowment
The Endowment’s mission is to address the root challenges in community safety, community development, social and health equity, and education and to develop impactful solutions for every person in New Hanover County. The Endowment was established from the sale of the county-owned New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2020. The initial fund was nearly $1.3 billion. Grants will be awarded each year in perpetuity.
To stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities, news, and community events, follow The Endowment on social media or subscribe to the newsletter at
www.theendowment.org