2003 Grants
Overview and Priorities

Funding Factors

Funding from the tobacco settlement is dependent on a number of factors, including sale of tobacco products.The funds are being put in an endowment that will generate earnings to fund grants. We expect to award between $13 million and $15 million this grants cycle.

The Foundation

The acronym LEAF stands for Long-term Economic Advancement Foundation.We are a public charitable foundation, which is exempt from federal income tax as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.The Foundation's funds must be used for charitable, scientific, educational or tax-exempt public purposes. Both government and 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations may apply for grants. Golden LEAF has offices in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

Foundation Staff
Board of Directors

Our Mission

The mission of Golden LEAF is to improve the economic and social conditions of North Carolina's people. Our objectives are to promote the social welfare of North Carolina's citizens and to receive and distribute funds for economic impact assistance.

Funding Priorities

Golden LEAF continues to give priority to projects in the areas of agriculture, economic development, and workforce preparedness. Educational programs which complement these objectives will also be of interest. Specifically, the Foundation seeks projects which focus on the following objectives:

• Expanded market opportunities for agricultural products
• Assist farmers with cost-effective production techniques that result in increased profitability
• Support for farmers who wish to transition into alternative agricultural enterprises
• Economic support for initiatives that result in job creation and retention in tobacco-dependent and low-wealth counties
• Support for training initiatives that target job opportunities of new and expanding industries and businesses locating in tobacco-dependent and economically distressed areas of the state
• Improved small business performance in tobacco dependent and economically distressed areas through responsive and effective technology and business training

The Golden LEAF Foundation will place low priority on proposals seeking funding for endowments, capital campaigns, debt, infrastructure, "brick & mortar" projects and revolving loan programs.

Proposal Deadline, Review and Announcement

Golden LEAF is accepting requests for funding until August 1, 2003. The proposal package must be postmarked or delivered by that date. Our staff is available to give assistance and guidance as people who are seeking funding prepare their grant proposals. The Foundation's staff and board of directors will review all funding requests and announce the grant recipients in early November. Project funds will be available after December 1.