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

August 31, 2026 (Full application submission deadline)

Typical awards range from $1,500–$6,500 per project; over $215,000 distributed since 2000.

Annual grant cycle funding Gaston County nonprofits for projects addressing community needs and fostering local philanthropy.

--- ## Description The Next Generation Giving Circle Grant Cycle, managed by the Gaston Community Foundation, provides annual grants to nonprofit organizations serving Gaston County, North Carolina. Each year, the Giving Circle selects a specific focus area (e.g., children and youth, education, environment, health and wellness) and invites nonprofits to apply for funding to support projects aligned with that theme. The program is designed not only to address pressing local needs but also to encourage community-driven philanthropy by pooling resources and engaging participants in events and service opportunities. Since its inception in 2000, the Giving Circle has distributed over $215,000 in grants, supporting a wide range of local initiatives. Recent funded projects include facility expansions for organizations serving families transitioning from homelessness, literacy and health education programs, and youth mentorship initiatives. --- ## Due Dates - August 31, 2026: Full application submission deadline for the Next Generation Giving Circle Grant Cycle (annual application window: August 1–31; applications submitted online) All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates. --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards range from $1,500 to $6,500 per project. - The total distributed since 2000 exceeds $215,000. - Grants are intended to support projects in the selected annual focus area. - Funding is provided as a one-time grant per cycle. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Gaston County, NC. - Projects must align with the annual focus area, which is announced in July prior to the application window. - Only organizations with projects benefiting Gaston County communities are eligible. - Both new and established nonprofits may apply; there is no explicit age or operating history requirement. - Individuals are not eligible; only organizations. --- ## Application Process - Grant guidelines are posted in July each year. - The application portal opens August 1 and closes August 31. - All applications must be submitted online via the [Gaston Community Foundation grantmaking portal](https://www.cfgaston.org/next-gen). - Applicants are encouraged to review guidelines and prepare materials ahead of the August window. - Questions about the process can be directed to the Community Engagement Officer. --- ## Additional Information - The Giving Circle is open to all community members interested in philanthropy, with a suggested annual gift of $75 for individuals or $150 for couples to participate in the Circle itself (not required for grant applicants). - Participation in the Circle is encouraged for those wishing to become more involved in local philanthropy, but is not a requirement for grant eligibility. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview and Application Portal](https://www.cfgaston.org/next-gen) - [Grant Cycle Details](https://www.cfgaston.org/next-gen/#grants-cycle) - [Grant Guidelines](https://www.cfgaston.org/grant-guidelines/) - [Download Connect Card (for joining the Giving Circle)](https://www.cfgaston.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GCF_NextGen_ConnectCard_2025.pdf) - [Donate to the Next Generation Fund](https://cfgaston.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1475) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | |---------------------|------------------------------|------------------------------------|----------------------| | Lauren Vanacore | Community Engagement Officer | [lvanacore@cfgaston.org](mailto:lvanacore@cfgaston.org) | 704-864-0927 ext. 102 | | General Inquiries | Gaston Community Foundation | [info@cfgaston.org](mailto:info@cfgaston.org) | 704-864-0927 | Physical Address: 250 South New Hope Road, Suite A, Gastonia, NC 28054 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 123, Gastonia, NC 28053

Next Generation Giving Circle Grant Cycle

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