The TCGC grant application will open on November 17, 2025 and close on January 4, 2026.

RECEIVE UP TO $1,000 FOR YOUR TEEN-LED SERVICE PROJECT!

  • WHO? For teens leading projects that will have a positive impact in Gaston County
  • WHAT? Grant opportunity
  • WHEN? Application deadline is January 4, 2026 by 11:59pm
  • WHERE? Only applications submitted online will be considered
  • HOW? The application will go live on November 17...find the link at the bottom of this page.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: DO I HAVE TO COMPLETE THE APPLICATION ONLINE?

A: Yes. Only applications submitted ONLINE by 11:59pm, January 4, 2026 will be considered.  Link is posted below beginning November 17, 2025.

Q: HOW MUCH MONEY MAY I REQUEST?

A: You may ask for a minimum of $50.00 up to a maximum of $1,000.00 from TCGC.

Q: MAY I APPLY FOR FUNDS AS AN INDIVIDUAL?

A: Yes, though it must be for the benefit of the community and not the individual. The individual MUST be affiliated with a nonprofit organization and have an adult sponsor from the nonprofit organization or school.  The adult sponsor must write a letter of endorsement on behalf of you and your project.

Q: WHAT IF I HAVE AN IDEA, BUT I DON'T HAVE AN ORGANIZATION OR SCHOOL SPONSOR?

A: You must have an organization or school sponsor.  You cannot apply for a grant without a sponsoring organization. If you are awarded a grant, the organization will receive the grant check on your behalf. The organization will help you carry out your project. If you can’t find a sponsor, contact the Foundation so that we can help you connect with one.

Q: CAN WE PAY OURSELVES TO DO THE WORK?

A: No. The grants cannot be used for stipends or payments to individuals.

Q: WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF RECEIVING A GRANT?

A: There is no guarantee that if you apply you will be awarded a grant. However, we encourage teens with great ideas to apply.

Q: HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BE NOTIFIED IF I RECEIVE A GRANT FOR MY PROJECT?

A: You will be notified of grant decisions by the end of January.

Q: HOW DO I BECOME ONE OF THE PEOPLE WHO MAKES GRANT DECISIONS ON THE TCGC BOARD?

A: We will be recruiting TCGC board members again in the summer of 2026. For application information contact Lauren Vanacore at Lvanacore@cfgaston.org.