Grant and Funding Programs Offered by The Provident Foundation
Overview of Available Grants and Funding
The Provident Benevolent Foundation is a private foundation established in 1989 under Wells Fargo that provides grants to charitable organizations in North Carolina. The foundation supports programs in arts, culture, humanities, education, health, human services, and public benefit. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, with an average of 80 grants awarded annually. The foundation primarily serves organizations in central and western North Carolina. View The Provident Foundation's website for more information.
Content last updated: April 6, 2026
List of grants and funding offered by The Provident Foundation
2 opportunities available
Grant and FundingClosed
Emerging Climate Champions Award
Flexible funding for youth-led climate solutions

About The Provident Foundation
What is the mission of The Provident Foundation?
To provide financial assistance to organizations that provide educational, medical, and fundamental human services to individuals.
What type of organization is The Provident Foundation?
The Provident Foundation is a Foundation.
When was The Provident Foundation founded?
The Provident Foundation was founded in 1989.
What is The Provident Foundation's official website?
The Provident Foundation's official website is https://www.wellsfargo.com/private-foundations/provident-benevolent-foundation/.
What else should I know about The Provident Foundation?
Role of the Provident Benevolent Foundation in the Funding Ecosystem
The Provident Benevolent Foundation is a private foundation administered by Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services. Established in 1989 and renamed in 1991, it serves as a significant philanthropic resource for charitable organizations in North Carolina, focusing on communities in central and western regions of the state.
Funding Areas and Program Focus
The foundation supports organizations working in five main program areas: arts, culture, and humanities; education; health; human services; and public and society benefit. The foundation's mission is to provide financial assistance to organizations that deliver educational, medical, and fundamental human services to individuals in need.
Types of Funding Available
The foundation provides three types of support: program-specific grants, general operating support, and capital campaign support. This flexibility allows grantees to use funding according to their organizational needs and strategic priorities.
Geographic Focus
While the foundation serves organizations throughout North Carolina, preference is given to organizations located in central and western North Carolina. The eastern region beginning in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area is generally not considered for funding.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications are accepted year-round, with a key deadline of December 31st each year. Applications received by this deadline are reviewed at the annual grant meeting held in April or May, with decisions typically communicated by June. The foundation awards approximately 80 grants annually with an average grant size of $5,000 to $15,000.
Eligibility Requirements
Organizations must qualify as tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to be eligible for funding. The foundation does not award grants to individuals.