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

Scroll To View
UNC-Duke Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Program

UNC-Duke Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Program

Center for the History of Political Economy at Duke University

Center for the History of Political Economy at Duke University

Carolina Ballet

Carolina Ballet

CORRAL Riding Academy

CORRAL Riding Academy

Horizons Program at UNC Chapel Hill

Horizons Program at UNC Chapel Hill

Cathy Heath Wages Decade-Long Battle to Protect Property Rights

Cathy Heath Wages Decade-Long Battle to Protect Property Rights

Dr. Charles Mann Helps Build a Life for the Uninsured

Dr. Charles Mann Helps Build a Life for the Uninsured

North Carolina Symphony

North Carolina Symphony

The Property and Environment Research Center

The Property and Environment Research Center

The John Locke Foundation

The John Locke Foundation

The Institute for Humane Studies

The Institute for Humane Studies

Baker Mitchell Devotes His Retirement to Educating Kids

Baker Mitchell Devotes His Retirement to Educating Kids

Newsletter

Stay Informed

Subscribe to our email newsletter for updates and grant information.

Questions?

Contact Us

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