[Community Foundation of Western North Carolina](https://cfwnc.org)

February 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $35,000/year for up to 3 years; ~6–8 awards per cycle

Supports innovative projects in Buncombe County, NC, that foster economic growth, workforce development, and social infrastructure for long-term community impact.

--- ## Description The Asheville Merchants Fund (AMF) is designed to strengthen the economic well-being of Buncombe County, North Carolina, by supporting projects and programs that promote economic growth, educational advancement, social welfare, and cultural vitality. The fund prioritizes initiatives that offer innovative economic approaches, quality jobs and workforce development, and enhanced social infrastructure. Eligible projects may be new or existing, and grants may cover operating expenses if they are essential to the proposed work’s objectives. The fund seeks organizations with the capacity to deliver multi-faceted, measurable programs that address critical community needs and produce sustainable, long-term results. --- ## Due Dates - February 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Grants of up to $35,000 per year, renewable for up to three years (maximum $105,000 per project) - Typically, 6–8 grants are awarded per three-year cycle - Grants are paid in three installments, with continued funding contingent on progress --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, public agencies, or faith communities - Organizations may be located in Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, or Madison counties, but projects must provide direct economic benefit in Buncombe County - Organizations must already be established in or serving Buncombe County - Only one proposal may be submitted per organization per grant cycle **Not Funded:** - Scholarships - Sectarian religious or partisan political purposes - Endowment funds, deficit funding, or debt retirement - Capital support for new buildings or major expansions - Festivals, one-time events, or activities/expenses incurred before grant funds are awarded --- ## Application Process 1. **Consultation (Optional):** Contact the program officer to discuss eligibility or proposal ideas. 2. **Submit Application:** Use the [online application system](https://cfwnc.org/grants/about-grants/online-application). 3. **Review:** Applications are screened for completeness and eligibility. The Advisory Committee evaluates proposals based on priorities, fund availability, organizational capacity, and potential community impact. 4. **Award & Payment:** Grants are distributed by electronic funds transfer (EFT); grantees must have current banking information on file. 5. **Reporting:** Interim and final reports verifying use of funds and outcomes are required. Additional reports or site visits may be requested. --- ## Additional Information - Operating expenses may be funded if critical to the project’s goals. - Projects should demonstrate a focus on critical needs, have measurable outcomes, and be led by organizations with strong leadership and vision. - Guidelines may be modified by the Advisory Committee in consultation with CFWNC staff. --- ## External Links - [Program Page & Application Instructions](https://cfwnc.org/grants/asheville-merchants-fund) - [Recent Grants Awarded (PDF)](https://nmd.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wnc/documents/Grants/AMF-Recent-Grants-2025.pdf) - [Online Application Portal](https://cfwnc.org/grants/about-grants/online-application) - [CFWNC Grants Directory](https://cfwnc.org/grants/grants-directory) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | |-----------------|-------------------------|------------------------------|---------------| | Jeremy Lett | Program Officer | lett@cfwnc.org | 828-785-4743 | | Diane Crisp | Senior Grants Manager | crisp@cfwnc.org | 828-367-9904 | | General Inquiries| — | info@cfwnc.org | (828) 254-4960| ---

Asheville Merchants Fund

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