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

Scroll To View
Guillermo Peña Panting Brings Freedom to the Murder Capital of the World

Guillermo Peña Panting Brings Freedom to the Murder Capital of the World

The Philanthropy Roundtable

The Philanthropy Roundtable

Helping Horse Therapeutic Riding Program

Helping Horse Therapeutic Riding Program

Habitat for Humanity of Wake County

Habitat for Humanity of Wake County

CASA (Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes)

CASA (Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes)

The Fund for American Studies

The Fund for American Studies

Lynn Daniell Leaves Corporate America to Feed the Hungry

Lynn Daniell Leaves Corporate America to Feed the Hungry

A Native of China Sees the Benefits of Free-Market Capitalism

A Native of China Sees the Benefits of Free-Market Capitalism

James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal

James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal

SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals

SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals

Carolina Ballet

Carolina Ballet

Horizons Program at UNC Chapel Hill

Horizons Program at UNC Chapel Hill

Newsletter

Stay Informed

Subscribe to our email newsletter for updates and grant information.

Questions?

Contact Us

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