The CFNRV’s Competitive Grants
The 2026 Competitive Grant application cycle closed at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026. We do not accept late applications for any reason.
Applications will be under review from now through October. During the review period, you will not be able to see your application in the system. All decisions will be announced in early November via email and physical mail. If you have questions in the meantime, please reach out at 540-381-8999 or at cfnrv@cfnrv.org.
The Community Foundation of the New River Valley awards grants in a variety of ways. Review the information about our competitive grant programs below to learn more.
Responsive Grant Program
The Responsive Grant Program at the CFNRV is an annual grant program intended to respond to ongoing or emergent community needs as recognized by the area nonprofits serving those needs directly. This program focuses on providing up to $5,000 in unrestricted funds so nonprofits can use the money where it is needed most. Units of local government such as libraries, volunteer rescue squads, and volunteer fire departments may also apply for funding. Please see additional guidelines for local government applicants and learn more about our Responsive Grant program on this page.
Education Grant Program
The CFNRV manages several funds that award grants to public school systems. This program allows public school personnel to complete a single application to be considered by multiple funding sources. Grants of up to $1,500 are available. Learn more about the Education Grant Program here.
Donor Advisor Forms
Are you a donor wanting to request that a grant(s) be made from your fund, outside of the competitive grants process to eligible nonprofit organization(s)? Please complete and submit this Nonbinding Request Form to cfnrv@cfnrv.org. Submit the form by December 1 of each calendar year to ensure grants are awarded within the calendar year.
Read More About Our Endowed Funds
The Community Foundation of the New River Valley manages more than 200 endowed funds. Each of these funds has a specific purpose that aligns with donors’ interests and passions. Each year, these funds award grants to nonprofit organizations and scholarships to students.
Since we awarded our first grant in 1997 and our first scholarship in 2002, we have awarded more than $9.5 million in grants and scholarships – all thanks to the generosity of donors. Read more about all our funds on our Endowed Funds List page.