Dogwood opens two grants for leaders, organizations in WNC

Dogwood Health Trust has opened applications for two grants to build capacity and support collaboration and innovation within and among leaders and organizations in Western North Carolina (WNC).

“Our 2025 open grant opportunities focus on strengthening organizations as they advance their missions and as they work together with other organizations to reimagine the possibilities for our region,” said Dr. Susan Mims, CEO of Dogwood Health Trust. “Community leaders want to build healthier organizations and to collaborate with one another — now more than ever. We are eager to support their work to deliver critical services, drive economic growth and continue recovery efforts after Helene.”

ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY BUILDING GRANTS

Capacity building grants will support activities that help enhance strategically aligned partners’ internal operations for long-term performance and sustainability. Typical uses for capacity building support include but aren’t limited to strategic planning efforts; staff, board or leadership development; improving operations and systems; resource or funding development, among others.

Applications will be accepted to June 6. This grant opportunity is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charities of all sizes that serve the Qualla Boundary and 18 counties of Western North Carolina, fiscal sponsorship organizations, government and governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, and colleges and universities. Grants will range from $15,000 to $50,000 and can be used over two years.

COLLABORATION & INNOVATION GRANTS 

In the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Dogwood remains committed to ensuring resources reach the people, organizations and communities most affected. Collaboration & Innovation grants will support both emerging and established collaborations of at least two organizations as they respond to challenges and opportunities from Helene, especially imagining new possibilities for the Western North Carolina region.

 Applications will be accepted to June 27. These grants are open to a single organization — the Hub Applicant — to apply on behalf of the collaborative. Hub applicants may be 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charities, fiscal sponsorship organizations, government and governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, or colleges and universities. 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. The grants can be used for 12 to 24 months.

To learn more about these opportunities or to apply, visit dht.org/grantmaking.

About Dogwood Health Trust

Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina with the sole purpose of dramatically improving the health and wellbeing of all people and communities in the Qualla Boundary and the 18 counties of Western North Carolina. Dogwood Health Trust focuses on innovative and equitable ways to address the many factors that contribute to overall health and wellbeing, with a focus on housing, education, economic opportunity, and health and wellness. Dogwood Health Trust works to create a Western North Carolina where every generation can live, learn, earn and thrive, with dignity and opportunity for all, no exceptions. To learn more, please visit www.dht.org.