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For Grant Seekers - Overview

The purpose of Golden LEAF is to fund projects that promise to bring significant economic improvement to the tobacco-dependent, economically distressed, and/or rural communities of North Carolina. We welcome eligible entities to submit a grant application for a project that is consistent with Golden LEAF’s priorities.

Grant Opportunities

Golden LEAF currently has two programs open to eligible entities seeking grants. These programs complement other ongoing initiatives of the Foundation. After you read through each program description, feel free to contact a member of the program staff if you have further questions about eligibility or program requirements or priorities.

Open Grants Program

The Open Grants Program places high priority on the areas of agriculture, job creation and retention and workforce preparedness. Other projects that focus on other opportunities to support and develop economic strength in tobacco-dependent, economically distressed and/or rural communities are also welcomed. In light of the economic downturn, Golden LEAF will be looking for opportunities to complement and leverage federal and state stimulus programs to increase the impact of its grantsmaking on targeted communities.

The Open Grants Program replaces the former Golden LEAF Annual Grants Cycle. This program will make it easier for applicants to submit proposals to Golden LEAF and make funding opportunities available throughout the year.

Economic Catalyst Cycle

The Economic Catalyst Cycle is a program that focuses on job creation and/or retention projects associated with business locations or expansions in North Carolina that are at risk without participation from Golden LEAF. Projects submitted by eligible entities must meet specific criteria to be considered for funding.

STEM Initiative

The Golden LEAF Foundation is seeking proposals for a special $4 million initiative geared toward preparing North Carolina’s youth for careers requiring skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Organizations receiving funding under the Golden LEAF STEM Initiative can receive up to $750,000 for projects spanning a three-year period. The Initiative will focus on supporting successful models that increase STEM education for students in grades 4 through 9 in rural, economically distressed and/or tobacco-dependent counties of North Carolina.

Open Door Policy