Applying For Support

The Herman Family Foundation provides grants to eligible nonprofit organizations that align with its focus areas of arts, education, and affordable housing. Grants are intended to support programs and services that directly benefit residents of Mecklenburg, York, and surrounding counties.

The Foundation uses an online grant portal to accept and review applications, which helps streamline the process for both applicants and reviewers.

Applying For Support

The Herman Family Foundation provides grants to eligible nonprofit organizations that align with its focus areas of arts, education, and affordable housing. Grants are intended to support programs and services that directly benefit residents of Mecklenburg, York, and surrounding counties.

The Foundation uses an online grant portal to accept and review applications, which helps streamline the process for both applicants and reviewers.

Eligibility

Organizations may be eligible to apply for funding if they:
  • Are classified as a 501(c)(3) public charity, or have a qualified fiscal sponsor

  • Serve residents in Mecklenburg County, York County, or surrounding counties

  • Offer programs aligned with at least one focus area, arts, education, or affordable housing

  • Demonstrate responsible financial management and organizational stability

The Foundation does not currently fund individuals, for profit entities, or organizations whose work falls outside the stated geographic and programmatic priorities.

What We Fund

Grants from the Herman Family Foundation typically support programmatic activities rather than general fundraising efforts. Examples include:
  • Program delivery costs, such as program staff, supplies, or curriculum

  • Participation fees or scholarships that increase access for school aged children

  • Direct services that help individuals and families address housing instability

For a detailed description of the Foundation’s focus areas, visit the What We Support page.

Grant Cycle and Timeline

The Herman Family Foundation reviews applications on a regular schedule. Key dates are as follows:
  • Education Grant Applications due: April 30

  • Arts Grant Applications due: June 30

  • Housing Grant Applications due: September 30

  • Application opens: XX

  • Application deadline: XX

  • Review period: XX

  • Notification of decisions: XX

  • Grant period start date: XX

Note: Specific dates may vary from year to year. Please review the current grant cycle details in the online portal before submitting your application.

How to Apply

1

Review Eligibility and Focus Areas

Confirm that your organization’s mission and programs align with the Foundation’s focus on arts, education, and affordable housing in Mecklenburg, York, or surrounding counties.

2

Create or Update Your Online Profile

Apply through our grant form and create an organizational profile, or log in to update your existing information.

3

Complete the Application Form

Provide details about your organization, program goals, population served, expected outcomes, and budget. Be as clear and concise as possible.

4

Submit Required Attachments

Upload requested documents, such as your IRS determination letter, organizational budget, program budget, and key leadership list. Exact requirements will be listed in the portal.

5

Submit by the Deadline

Confirm your application is complete and submitted by the posted deadline. Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

Reporting Requirements

Grantees may be asked to submit a brief progress or final report describing how funds were used, who was served, and what outcomes were achieved. Reporting requirements, including deadlines and format, will be outlined in the grant agreement and in the online portal.

The Foundation uses these reports to understand community impact, learn from its partners, and inform future grantmaking.

Questions About Grants

If you have questions about eligibility, the application process, or how your program fits within the Foundation’s focus areas, please contact the Foundation staff.