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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Tricia Boyd Beats Drug Addiction on Path to Leadership

Tricia Boyd Beats Drug Addiction on Path to Leadership

SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals

SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals

Troy Kickler Tells New Stories About N.C.’s Past

Troy Kickler Tells New Stories About N.C.'s Past

Helping Horse Therapeutic Riding Program

Helping Horse Therapeutic Riding Program

North Carolina Museum of Art

North Carolina Museum of Art

Born Under Communism, Simon Bilo Now Teaches Others About Free Economies

Born Under Communism, Simon Bilo Now Teaches Others About Free Economies

The Property and Environment Research Center

The Property and Environment Research Center

Pope Family Eagle Scout Scholarship

Pope Family Eagle Scout Scholarship

James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal

James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal

A Native of China Sees the Benefits of Free-Market Capitalism

A Native of China Sees the Benefits of Free-Market Capitalism

Katherine Restrepo: Bringing a Fresh Perspective to Health Care Policy

Katherine Restrepo: Bringing a Fresh Perspective to Health Care Policy

Habitat for Humanity Fulfills a Dream for Barbara Gotay

Habitat for Humanity Fulfills a Dream for Barbara Gotay

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