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About Us | Overview

The Golden LEAF Foundation was created in 1999 to administer onehalf of North Carolina's share of the master settlement agreement with cigarette manufacturers. The Foundation is a nonprofit devoted to advancing the economic well being of North Carolinians and to transforming its economy. It works in partnership with local governments, educational institutions, economic development organizations and other public agencies, and nonprofits to effect positive change.

The Golden LEAF Foundation is committed to using the funds entrusted to it for projects that show the most potential for strengthening North Carolina's long-term economy, especially in communities that have been tobacco-dependent and/or are economically distressed. Golden LEAF's grantmaking has been focused in the areas of agriculture, economic development and workforce preparedness. Educational assistance projects that complemented these priority areas also have been supported.

The Foundation's 15-member board is appointed by the Governor, the President Pro Tem of the Senate, and the Speaker of the North Carolina House. Since Golden LEAF's creation, the board has followed a policy of investing and growing its trust fund so funding will be available for generations to follow. The Foundation has stepped forward at key times with major economic development efforts — an economic stimulus package, a biotech initiative, and, most recently, an aerospace alliance initiative. However, its board believes that to the greatest degree possible grants should be funded from income on investments.

Headquartered in Rocky Mount, the Golden LEAF Foundation has an open door policy. Staff is available to discuss and give feedback on proposal ideas, and applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation with any questions regarding the grant application process and funding priorities.


Golden LEAF Foundation
107 SE Main Street, Suite 500, Rocky Mount NC 27801
252-442-7474 phone     252-442-7404 fax     888-684-8404 toll free
www.goldenleaf.org    email: info@goldenleaf.org