[Golden LEAF Foundation](https://goldenleaf.org)

No fixed deadlines (Invitation only; rolling basis)

No minimum or maximum specified; awards are typically large, multifaceted, and tailored to project scope.

Supports bold, collaborative, and high-impact projects that address critical needs and drive transformative change in rural North Carolina.

Applications are by invitation only; only local governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving rural NC are eligible.

--- ## Description The SPARC Initiative, offered by the Golden LEAF Foundation, funds innovative, high-impact projects designed to address critical needs and unlock transformative opportunities in rural North Carolina. The initiative seeks unique, collaborative, and multifaceted proposals that are deeply rooted in local assets and circumstances, and that create lasting community impact. Projects must align with Golden LEAF’s mission and priority areas, including economic development, workforce preparedness, agriculture, and community capacity. --- ## Due Dates - There are no fixed deadlines for the SPARC Initiative. - Applications are accepted by invitation only and considered on a rolling basis. --- ## Funding Amount - No set minimum or maximum award amount. - Funding is tailored to the scale and scope of each project, which are expected to be significant and multifaceted. - Typical awards are large, but specific amounts are not disclosed publicly. --- ## Eligibility - Only units of local government and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving rural North Carolina are eligible to apply. - Projects must have a rural focus and align with Golden LEAF’s mission and priority funding areas. - Awards are not made to individuals or for-profit businesses. --- ## Application Process - Applications are accepted by invitation only. - Interested organizations must contact Golden LEAF staff to discuss their project’s fit for the SPARC Initiative. - Use the [programs contact form](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/contact-programs/) to initiate a conversation and determine eligibility. - If the project is deemed a fit, staff will provide guidance on next steps for the application. --- ## Additional Information - Funded projects are expected to involve exceptional partnerships or leverage significant external resources. - SPARC projects may not include standard Golden LEAF outcomes and can have unique characteristics. - Confidentiality of application materials related to economic development is protected under North Carolina law until project decisions are publicly announced. For details, see the [public records exception policy](https://goldenleaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Golden-LEAF-Disclaimer-2.pdf). --- ## External Links - [SPARC Program Page](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/sparc) - [Contact Golden LEAF Programs Staff](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/contact-programs/) - [Golden LEAF Priority Areas](https://goldenleaf.org/priority-areas/) - [Public Records Exception Policy (PDF)](https://goldenleaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Golden-LEAF-Disclaimer-2.pdf) - [Golden LEAF Foundation FAQ](https://goldenleaf.org/about/faq/) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [info@goldenleaf.org](mailto:info@goldenleaf.org) / [Contact Form](https://goldenleaf.org/about/contact-us/) | | Programs Team | [Programs Contact Form](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/contact-programs/) | | Phone | 252-442-7474 | | Address | 301 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 |

SPARC

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