[Gaston Community Foundation](https://cfgaston.org)

June 30, 2026 (Full application deadline for 2026 Community Grant Cycle)

Award size varies; typically supports single-year nonprofit projects/programs.

Supports innovative nonprofit projects that improve quality of life for Gaston County, NC residents.

New applicants must meet with Foundation staff prior to applying.

--- ## Description The Community Grants Cycle offered by the Gaston Community Foundation is designed to connect donor funds with nonprofit initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents of Gaston County, North Carolina. The grant supports innovative projects and programs from eligible nonprofits, aiming to strengthen the local nonprofit sector and invest in the county’s future. Funding is awarded through a competitive review process, with priority given to projects that are collaborative, sustainable, and demonstrate measurable positive results for the community. --- ## Due Dates - June 30, 2026: Full application submission deadline for the 2026 Community Grant Cycle (applications accepted June 1–June 30, 2026) --- ## Funding Amount - The Foundation does not specify a set minimum or maximum grant amount; award sizes vary based on project scope and available funds. - Grants are typically for single-year projects/programs and do not support multi-year funding or recurring requests for the same purpose. - The Foundation does not fund projects beyond three consecutive years for the same agency/program. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be tax-exempt public agencies or charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status. - Projects must operate in or primarily benefit Gaston County residents. - Organizations serving multiple counties must specify how funds will be used exclusively in Gaston County. - Only one application per organization per funding cycle is permitted. - Organizations cannot receive funding for more than three consecutive years for the same program. - Current multi-year grantees are ineligible until their grant concludes. - New applicants are required to schedule a meeting (in person, phone, or virtual) with Foundation staff before submitting an application. **Not Funded:** - Annual fund campaigns, feasibility studies, strategic plans, general operating funds, multi-year grants, recurring requests for the same purpose, most individual schools, sectarian religious activities, lobbying/political activities, debt reduction, retroactive expenses, and fundraising events. --- ## Application Process - Applications are available online from June 1 to June 30, 2026. - All applicants must use the current electronic application form and follow provided guidelines. - Required supporting documents include: - Project budget (income and expenditures) - Organization’s operating budget - List of board of directors - Most recent financial audit or year-end financial statement (Form 990) - Documentation of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status - New applicants must schedule and complete a meeting with Foundation staff prior to submission. - Applications are reviewed by the Grants Committee and Board of Directors, with decisions communicated by October 10. --- ## Additional Information - Priority consideration is given to organizations with a track record of success, collaborative projects, innovative and sustainable proposals, and projects that leverage other resources or matching funds. - Projects should include clear plans for measurement, evaluation, and continued funding beyond the grant period. --- ## External Links - [Community Grants Cycle Program Page](https://www.cfgaston.org/community-grants-cycle/) - [Grant Guidelines](https://www.cfgaston.org/grant-guidelines/) - [Contact Page](https://cfgaston.org/about/contact-us) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Address (Mailing / Physical) | |---------------------|-----------------------------------|--------------|---------------------------------------------| | Nina Greene, Grants and Scholarships Officer | [ngreene@cfgaston.org](mailto:ngreene@cfgaston.org) | 704-864-0927 | P.O. Box 123, Gastonia, NC 28053 / 250 South New Hope Road, Suite A, Gastonia, NC 28054 | | General Inquiries | [info@cfgaston.org](mailto:info@cfgaston.org) | 704-864-0927 | See above |

Community Grants Cycle

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