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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Carolina Ballet

Carolina Ballet

CASA (Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes)

CASA (Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes)

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

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

Jim Anthony Puts Faith Into Practice Through Giving

Jim Anthony Puts Faith Into Practice Through Giving

North Carolina Opera

North Carolina Opera

CORRAL Riding Academy

CORRAL Riding Academy

Grantee Profile: UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

Grantee Profile: UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Fund for American Studies

The Fund for American Studies

Jon Sanders: The Witty Deregulator

Jon Sanders: The Witty Deregulator

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

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

Center for the History of Political Economy at Duke University

Center for the History of Political Economy at Duke University

North Carolina Museum of Art

North Carolina Museum of Art

Newsletter

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Questions?

Contact Us

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