Building a Better New Hanover Community
For all

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Endowment Facts – By the Numbers

A snapshot of The Endowment’s investments, strategic initiatives, and real results. See how we’re driving change and strengthening our community, one number at a time.

2026 Spring Cycle Community Grants

See Our Quarterly Reports

409

Cumulative Grants (Since Inception)

$190M

Cumulative Awards (Since Inception)

46

2026 New Grants Awarded

$35.4M

2026 Budget Committed

The City of Wilmington, New Hanover County, and The Endowment are pleased to announce a collaborative investment to support the City’s acquisition and preservation of approximately 25 acres of green space off Greenville Loop Road for the development of a public park.

Learn more about this collaborative investment HERE

Stability, Continuity, and Long Term Vision

The Endowment Board Names Sophie Dagenais President and CEO

Guiding The Endowment with stability, continuity, and long-term vision.

Check out the full announcement HERE

2026 First Grant Awards

Placemaking and Child Nutrition in New Hanover County

In partnership with the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County, The Endowment has provisionally approved a $7,750,000 grant to the City of Wilmington to support the acquisition of land for conservation and activation as a community-centered park.

Additionally, The Endowment has approved a $75,000 grant commitment to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to support the implementation of the 2026 SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) program for eligible children across the state, including in New Hanover County this summer.

View the full announcement HERE.

 

The Endowment is partnering with the Charles Koch Foundation, the Lennar Foundation, and the Building Talent Foundation to expand access to high-quality workforce training for residents through a $370,000 grant to Cape Fear Community College Foundation, including a grant from Live Oak Bank. The investment will support implementation of the Lennar Foundation Construction Trades Program at CFCC’s North Campus, equipping participants with foundational skills for entry-level careers in the construction industry.

View the full announcement HERE

NEWS

Stay informed with the latest updates from The Endowment. From major announcements to community impact stories, our news and press releases keep you connected to the work shaping our region’s future.

Mission Statement

To improve the health, education, safety, and economic opportunity of every person in our community.

Learn More About Us

Our Vision

To transform our community so all will thrive.

Our Strategic Plan

We strive to build a community that is just and inclusive. Our commitment to equity is at the core of who we are and serves as a guiding principle that shapes our work. We aspire to build a community where all voices are heard, all barriers are faced and where all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and build a better life. We are committed to the work that is required to build a community that values and supports the humanity of all people.

2026-2030 Strategic Plan

Our Four Pillars of Focus

Providing or improving access to resources for optimal health and well-being; advancing programs and initiatives that promote access to resources, and equitable opportunities for all members of our community.

Delivering or enhancing educational opportunities, access to learning resources, and skill-building opportunities; investing in innovative learning opportunities to ensure all students in New Hanover County have access to quality education, resources, and pathways to success.

Helping to create safe and supportive environments for all residents; strengthening neighborhood initiatives and partnerships, and promoting community resilience and engagement.

Promoting economic and community development, creating welcoming environments, and fostering community cohesion; supporting economic growth, affordable housing, and infrastructure improvements to build a thriving and sustainable community.

Newsletter

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