The organization has been incorporated for the past 3 consecutive years.

Operates, or has programs, in the greater Charlotte area.

Lobbying and political groups are not eligible.

Non-profit organizations who meet the 501(c)(3) requirements based on their “religious” purpose will not be eligible for consideration. 501(c)(3) religious organizations include churches, conventions, and associations of churches, integrated auxiliaries of churches, nondenominational ministries, interdenominational and ecumenical organizations, and other entities whose principal purpose is the study or advancement of religion. This also includes schools that are under the umbrella of a religious organization for tax-exempt purposes.

Non-profit organizations that are not open to all people without regard to race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or national origin will not be supported.

The organization must be recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization by the IRS. U.S. local and state government-owned and operated entities such as public schools, publicly owned and operated museums, public libraries, and zoos are eligible.

Accredited educational institutions that are exempt from federal taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code are eligible.