Applications for the 2026-27 grant cycle are open! The deadline to apply for a 2026-2027 grant is March 20, 2026.
Application - 2026-27 Extension Grants
What are Innovation Grants?
NC State Extension Innovation Grants are awarded yearly to NC State Extension staff on an application basis. These grants provide funding for innovative program initiatives with educational components and/or that support professional development. They are meant to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of NC State Extension at every level. Guidelines for these competitive grants are established by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Agriculture Programs Foundation Board of Directors in conjunction with the Associate Dean and Director of NC State Extension at the beginning of each grant cycle.There are two categories of Innovation Grant available:Gore Innovation Grants
The Gore Innovation Grants are awarded from the Edward M. Gore, Sr. Cooperative Extension Service Endowment.- Funding priority: NEW initiatives / programs (creation up to 3 years old)
- Individual grant maximum: $5,000
- Total number of grants maximum: variable depending upon available funds
- Who is Eligible: Any agent, specialist, faculty member, County Extension Director, District Extension Director or team of such personnel whose proposed project falls within the priorities of NC State Extension.*
N.C. Cooperative Extension Service Grants
The N.C. Cooperative Extension Service Grants are awarded from the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service Foundation Endowment.- Funding Priority: EXISTING programs (4+ years)
- Individual grant maximum: $5,000
- Total number of grants maximum: variable depending upon available funds
- Who is eligible: Any agent, specialist, faculty member, County Extension Director, District Extension Director or team of such personnel whose proposed project falls within the priorities of NC State Extension**
