Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation Community Progress Fund

The Community Progress Fund grants help local organizations in North Carolina’s 78 rural counties move an idea, issue, project or organization forward, with the goal of improving their community.

Grants are meant to help groups build on existing momentum to take their work to the next level.

To apply an organization must have 501(c)3 status or be government or religious entities operating in North Carolina, have a primary office in one of North Carolina’s rural districts, and use the grant to support the people of their community.

The Z. Reynolds Smith Foundation will prioritize grants for projects that are community-driven, community-led and community-centered, and have the greatest potential to achieve local impact and make progress as defined by the applicant.

Grant amounts range from $20,000-$30,000 per year for one or two years.

Opportunity offered by:

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation is a private family foundation that serves the people of North Carolina. It was established in 1936 by the children of RJ and Katharine Smith…
Online application form
Contact for application information
Opportunity type

Grant

Location(s) where available

North Carolina

Maximum grant amount

$30000

Areas of focus

Community Journalism
Local Journalism
Rural Communities

Applications accepted starting:
January 5, 2026
Application deadline:
February 2, 2026