[Winston-Salem Foundation](https://www.wsfoundation.org)

November 2026 (application opens) | January 2027 (application deadline)

Typical grants range from ~$375 to ~$1,876 per project; annual total varies.

Supports youth-led projects in Forsyth County, NC, empowering young people (ages 15–18) to address community challenges and create positive change.

--- ## Description Youth Grantmakers in Action (YGA) is a youth-led grantmaking initiative in Forsyth County, North Carolina, managed by the Winston-Salem Foundation. The program brings together diverse high school students (ages 15–18) to develop leadership skills and actively participate in philanthropy by funding youth-directed projects. YGA supports projects that create meaningful, positive change in the local community, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, peer collaboration, and addressing local issues identified by young people themselves. Grants are awarded annually to projects that demonstrate a clear benefit to Forsyth County youth. --- ## Due Dates - November 2026 (anticipated): Application window opens for youth-led proposals - January 2027 (anticipated): Application deadline (end of submission period) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards range from approximately $375 to $1,876 per project. - Funding is generally intended to support one-time or short-term youth-led initiatives. - Total annual funding pool may vary. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be youth ages 15–18 who live in or attend school in Forsyth County, North Carolina. - Projects must be youth-led and address a community issue or challenge with a positive impact on Forsyth County youth. - Both individuals and youth groups are eligible to apply. - Projects should be designed, planned, and implemented by youth, with adult support as needed. --- ## Application Process - Applications are accepted annually, opening in late November and closing in late January. - Applicants must submit proposals through the [Winston-Salem Foundation Grants Portal](https://wsfoundation.org/grants-portal). - New users must create an account; returning users log in to access the application. - Application materials typically include a project description, goals, intended impact, and budget. - Grant decisions are announced in March. --- ## Additional Information - YGA is designed to foster leadership, consensus-building, and decision-making skills among youth. - The program encourages authentic partnerships between youth grantmakers and their peers. - Past funded projects have included STEAM workshops, mentorship programs, community events, and initiatives to support underserved youth. --- ## External Links - [Youth Grantmakers in Action Program Page](https://www.wsfoundation.org/strategic-initiatives/youth-grantmakers) - [Winston-Salem Foundation Grants Portal](https://wsfoundation.org/grants-portal) - [Application Instructions (Portal Tutorial)](https://support.foundant.com/hc/en-us/articles/4479853059991-GLM-Applicant-Tutorial) - [Recent Grant Recipients and Project Examples](https://www.wsfoundation.org/strategic-initiatives/youth-grantmakers#) - [Contact the Foundation](https://www.wsfoundation.org/contact) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Role | Email | Phone | |--------------------|------------------------------------|-------------------| | Brenda Sanders (YGA Grants) | bsanders@wsfoundation.org | (336) 725-2382 | | General Inquiries | info@wsfoundation.org | (336) 725-2382 |

Youth Grantmakers in Action

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