4. Open Grant Programs $4,000,000 annual budget 2018-19
Most inclusive program—open to all eligible entities and provides widest variety of grants
Priority areas
Agriculture
Workforce Preparedness
Job Creation and Retention
Other opportunities to promote economic development in target counties
Two stage application process
Letter of inquiry
Full proposal (by Board invitation)

5. Community Grants Program
Goals & Process Being Refined
Providing for clearly identified priorities/solving needs at local level
Awarding significant grants per county ($1.5 million)
Targeting counties that are the most in need
Promoting economic growth and development in long term
Doing the most good for the most people

6. Northeast Prosperity Zone
Regional Competition
17 counties competing for $11,000,000
Northampton, Halifax, Hertford, Gates, Chowan, Perquimans, Pasquotank, Camden, Currituck, Dare, Tyrrell, Washington, Hyde, Beaufort, Pitt, Martin, & Bertie
Capacity Building Initiative
Two step process that begins in August – more details to come

7. STEM Criteria
Comprehensive Program that includes Researched-based Curricula
STEM for All Students
Quality Professional Development focused on Project and Inquiry-Based Instructional Practice and Integrated, Innovative Technology Use
Enrichment Experiences Aligned to School Curricula
Established Relationships with Business and Industry which Provide Students With Work-Based Learning Experiences and Opportunities to Experience Authentic Real-World Problem Solving

8. STEM Criteria (continued)
Connects Student Learning to Career Opportunities and Higher Education
Opportunities for High School Students to Earn College Credit (CCP or AP Courses)
Inclusive Leadership Practice that Promotes a Positive Growth Culture and High Expectations for All
Dynamic Assessments that Embed the Cycle of Continuous Improvement (Plan, Do, Study, Act) into the Implementation Process
Targets Participation by Underrepresented Students and Includes Support Services to Nurture Success

9. Application Tips Do your Homework!
All funds must be used exclusively for charitable, scientific, educational, or other tax-exempt public purposes
All information subject to the Public Records Act
Follow the instructions and guidelines
Projects should be outcome driven
Use the Open Door Policy

10. Applications Tips (continued)
Find the fit – fill the gap or leak in the workforce pipeline!
Partnerships and Collaborations – make it real!
Don’t pad your budgets or expected outcomes
Make sure you have access to impact data
Ask for recommendations of other potential funders