Capacity Building and Collaboration & Innovation Grant Opportunities

An informational webinar about these opportunities will be held on May 15 from 1-2 p.m. ET if you are interested in learning more or asking questions. We’ll share helpful details on eligibility and for completing your applications. A recording will be made available on our website for those who cannot attend live.

This opportunity is open to “strategically aligned organizations,” which: (1) serve Western North Carolina; (2) advance Dogwood’s strategic priorities of housing, education, economic opportunity, and/or health & wellness; and (3) demonstrate a commitment to serve, engage with and reflect the voices and lived experiences of people and communities experiencing disinvestment and disconnection.

Capacity Building support is funding for activities that help strengthen strategically aligned partners’ internal operations to achieve long-term performance and sustainability. Grant sizes will range from $15,000 to $50,000 and can be used over a two-year period.

Collaboration & Innovation
Investing in Collaborations and Possibilities in a Post-Helene Environment
Applications accepted from May 19 to June 27, 2025

This grant opportunity will support both emergent and established collaborations responding to the challenges and opportunities from Helene, especially imagining new possibilities for the WNC region. It will:

• Support community-wide networks of people and organizations that are developing and implementing innovative ideas and models within housing, education, economic opportunity, and health and wellness.
• Direct resources to courageous solutions centering the needs of people, organizations and communities that have experienced disinvestment and disconnection.
• Strengthen collaborative efforts and networks that lay the groundwork for coalitions engaged in creative, systemic analysis and action.
• Support leaders within organizations and communities who are working in integrated ways, building coalitions, and resolving complex challenges with creative solutions.

Grants will range from $50,000 to $500,000, with up to 20% of funds available for flexible administrative funding and the balance (80% or more) for collaborative funding. Grants can be used for 12-24 months.