Individual Freedom.
Personal Responsibility.
Strong Communities.

At its core, The John William Pope Foundation’s approach is about investing in people – enriching lives while strengthening the foundations of a free and prosperous society.

"Self-reliance, self-confidence, and integrity are the keys to success. Endurance is also critical, and the responsibility for success lies on the shoulders of the individual."
John William Pope

Our Mission

The John William Pope Foundation makes grants to improve the well-being of North Carolinians by advancing the ideas of limited government, individual freedom, personal responsibility, and strong communities.

Grant Priorities

At the core, our grant priorities are about strengthening the roots of civil society, so that everyone has access to opportunity. Read more about our specific areas of investment.

Giving

By the Numbers

1975
Established
$ 160 +
Million Granted
360 +
Nonprofits supported
Application Process

Find Out How You Can Become a Grant Partner

The John William Pope Foundation seeks grant partners who share a vision of advancing individual freedom and personal responsibility. We offer two main funding opportunities, our Annual Grants and the Joy W. Pope Memorial Grant Program.

Featured Grant Stories

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North Carolina Opera

North Carolina Opera

Dr. Charles Mann Helps Build a Life for the Uninsured

Dr. Charles Mann Helps Build a Life for the Uninsured

The Jesse Helms Center

The Jesse Helms Center

John Amanchukwu Strives to Offer a Vibrant Education Option

John Amanchukwu Strives to Offer a Vibrant Education Option

Center for the History of Political Economy at Duke University

Center for the History of Political Economy at Duke University

Dr. Thomas Shea Uses His Career to Fight Cancer

Dr. Thomas Shea Uses His Career to Fight Cancer

UNC Athletics: Track & Field

UNC Athletics: Track & Field

The North Carolina FreeEnterprise Foundation

The North Carolina FreeEnterprise Foundation

Transitions LifeCare

Transitions LifeCare

Habitat for Humanity Fulfills a Dream for Barbara Gotay

Habitat for Humanity Fulfills a Dream for Barbara Gotay

CASA (Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes)

CASA (Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes)

Carolina Ballet

Carolina Ballet

Newsletter

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Questions?

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We’re available to answer questions or provide assistance if needed.