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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Terry Stoops: A ‘You-Can’t-Scare-Me’ Education Reformer

Terry Stoops: A 'You-Can't-Scare-Me' Education Reformer

UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

UNC-Duke Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Program

UNC-Duke Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Program

Pope Family Eagle Scout Scholarship

Pope Family Eagle Scout Scholarship

Habitat for Humanity of Wake County

Habitat for Humanity of Wake County

The Philanthropy Roundtable

The Philanthropy Roundtable

Cathy Heath Wages Decade-Long Battle to Protect Property Rights

Cathy Heath Wages Decade-Long Battle to Protect Property Rights

North Carolina Opera

North Carolina Opera

Lynn Daniell Leaves Corporate America to Feed the Hungry

Lynn Daniell Leaves Corporate America to Feed the Hungry

Free Market Challenge Inspires Xavier Massey to Want More From Life

Free Market Challenge Inspires Xavier Massey to Want More From Life

SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals

SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals

The North Carolina FreeEnterprise Foundation

The North Carolina FreeEnterprise Foundation

Newsletter

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Questions?

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