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

Rolling (Invitation only)

No standard maximum; awards typically support large, transformative, multi-partner projects.

Supports bold, collaborative projects that address critical needs and create transformative impact in rural North Carolina.

Applications are accepted by invitation only; contact staff to discuss project fit.

--- ## Description The SPARC Initiative, offered by the Golden LEAF Foundation, is designed to fund transformative, high-impact projects that address critical needs and unlock significant opportunities in rural North Carolina. The program emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and leveraging of external resources, seeking proposals that are unique, multifaceted, and tailored to the specific assets and circumstances of rural regions. Projects must align with the Foundation’s mission and priority areas, including economic development, workforce preparedness, agriculture, and community competitiveness. SPARC is not a standard grant program—applications are accepted by invitation only, and funded projects are expected to demonstrate exceptional partnerships and the potential for deep, lasting community impact. --- ## Due Dates - Rolling (Invitation only; no set deadlines) *All dates are subject to invitation and discussion with Golden LEAF staff.* --- ## Funding Amount - No fixed maximum or minimum award amount. - Funding is tailored to the scale and impact of each project; awards are typically substantial to support large, collaborative, and multifaceted initiatives. --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible Applicants:** - Units of local government in North Carolina - 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations - **Project Requirements:** - Must serve rural communities in North Carolina - Must align with one or more Golden LEAF priority funding areas: - Job Creation & Economic Investment - Workforce Preparedness - Agriculture - Community Competitiveness and Capacity - Should demonstrate strong partnerships and the ability to leverage significant external resources - Projects must be transformative and have the potential for long-term, significant community impact --- ## Application Process - **By Invitation Only:** Applications for SPARC are accepted only from organizations invited by Golden LEAF staff. - **How to Initiate:** - Interested applicants should first contact Golden LEAF staff to discuss project fit and potential alignment with the SPARC Initiative. - Use the [Programs Inquiry Form](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/contact-programs/) to connect with staff and provide a brief overview of your project. - **Review:** If the project is determined to be a fit, staff will provide guidance on next steps and the invitation process. --- ## Additional Information - Projects may not follow standard Golden LEAF outcomes and may have unique or unusual characteristics. - Confidential materials related to economic development and trade secrets are protected under North Carolina law (see [public records policy](https://goldenleaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Golden-LEAF-Disclaimer-2.pdf)). - All grant decisions are made in meetings open to the public, but sensitive information may be withheld as allowed by law. --- ## External Links - [SPARC Initiative Program Page](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/sparc) - [Golden LEAF Foundation Home](https://goldenleaf.org) - [Contact Programs Staff / Inquiry Form](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/contact-programs/) - [Golden LEAF Priority Areas](https://goldenleaf.org/priority-areas/) - [Public Records Policy (PDF)](https://goldenleaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Golden-LEAF-Disclaimer-2.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |---------------------------------|----------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [info@goldenleaf.org](mailto:info@goldenleaf.org) \| [252-442-7474](tel:+12524427474) | | Programs Staff / Project Fit | [Programs Inquiry Form](https://goldenleaf.org/funding-opportunities/contact-programs/) | | Mailing Address | 301 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 | | Media/Publicity | [jtinklepaugh@GoldenLEAF.org](mailto:jtinklepaugh@GoldenLEAF.org) | ---

SPARC

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