The Piedmont Natural Gas Foundation is part of the Duke Energy Foundation. Together, we continue to power the vitality of our communities through philanthropy focused on vibrant economies; climate resiliency; and justice, equity and inclusion.


We accept grant applications for $20,000 and less throughout the year on a rolling basis for the focus areas described below.


Vibrant Economies

  • Workforce development training for jobs vital to the energy economy, with a focus on underrepresented populations
  • Community revitalization and local economic development efforts
  • Economic recovery for customers and communities facing unprecedented challenges
  • Energy and engineering education for K-12 students and teachers

Climate Resiliency

  • Environmental projects supporting land conservation; clean water; and biodiversity of plant and animal species
  • Environmental resiliency projects that prepare communities for and mitigate against the effects of climate change
  • Natural disaster preparedness and response

Justice, Equity and Inclusion

  • Thriving natural environments, including access to green space, in historically underserved and environmental justice communities*
  • Programs supporting the “just transition” for communities transitioning to cleaner energy generation**
  • Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives supporting upward mobility

*Learn more about environmental justice on the EPA’s website.
**View one description of a just transition.


Application Process

Local Impact Grants are grants up to $20,000 that focus on programs aligned with vibrant economies, climate resiliency and justice, equity and inclusion.


Our Local Impact grants are open year-round.


The majority of Piedmont’s grantmaking is made at the $20,000 or below level. If you have a question about your program and its alignment with our focus areas, email foundation@duke-energy.com.


Qualifications

To qualify for grant funding consideration, your organization must meet the following criteria:

  • Have current tax-exempt status as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code, be a governmental entity, including school systems.
  • Serve communities that are also served by Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas.
  • Serve communities without discrimination against any individual on the basis of race, creed, gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation or national origin
  • Have a method by which to measure, track and report one or more program outcomes and specific results that demonstrate measurable community impact

Restrictions

Foundation grant support is not available for:

  • Churches or evangelical organizations
  • Organizations with a substantial purpose of influencing any political, legislative or regulatory cause
  • Fraternal, veteran or labor membership organizations serving only the members of that organization
  • Organizations offering or providing either Duke Energy Corporation, the Duke Energy Foundation, or their respective officers or employees any benefit from the grant
  • Nonprofit organizations that are opposing or intervening parties (or that fund any such parties) in any proceeding in which Duke Energy is a party, or that fund or produce negative advertisements against Duke Energy.

The Foundation does not fund grants for programs and projects associated with, but not limited to, the following:

  • Individual K-12 schools or organizations that operate within an individual school. We will consider school grants at the district level.
  • Sports teams or events.
  • Religious programs, projects or activities
  • Direct cost reduction for electric or natural gas service provided by Duke Energy
  • External fundraising campaigns or events
  • General operating expenses
  • Capital investments and improvements
  • Endowments or other foundations
  • Multiple grants to the same institution in a calendar year

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