Strategic Investment Grant
The Strategic Investment Grant from the Arts and Science Council funds one-time, capacity-building science and research projects for arts, science, history, or heritage nonprofits in Mecklenburg County.
Funder: Arts and Science Council
Due Dates: September 22, 2026 (draft for staff review) | October 5, 2026 (preferred full application) | February 1, 2027 (final cutoff)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 per project; requests above $10,000 require 50% match; project period: Oct 1, 2026–Dec 31, 2027
Summary: Supports Charlotte-Mecklenburg nonprofits in arts, science, history, or heritage with one-time, capacity-building project funding.
Key Information: Only one application per cycle; priority for organizations with budgets under $1.25M; matching funds required above $10,000.
Description
This grant provides project-based funding to established 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, whose primary mission is in the arts, science, history, or heritage. The goal is to support one-time strategic opportunities that advance organizational growth, strengthen management and fundraising, create unique learning experiences for staff and board, and drive operational efficiencies. The program is designed to build capacity, foster collaboration within the local creative sector and beyond, and help organizations maximize their impact and sustainability for the broader Charlotte-Mecklenburg community.
