The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation (ZSR) is committed to improving the quality of life for all North Carolinians. We do this primarily through grantmaking and capacity-building programs.
The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation's State-Level Systemic Change Strategy focuses on supporting efforts that lead to significant, foundational alterations in state-level systems and structures in North Carolina, to enhance the well-being of its residents. Priority areas include advancing public education, fostering a healthy and sustainable environment, promoting social and economic justice, and strengthening democracy. The strategy emphasizes supporting work that addresses the needs of historically marginalized or excluded groups such as immigrants, people who are LGBTQIA+, individuals with low incomes, people of color, women, and young people. Approaches supported by the foundation encompass advocacy, applied research, communications and digital media, leadership development, legal or litigation actions, organizing or mobilizing efforts, and training or education. Grants provided in the Fall grant cycle are mainly for multi-year, general operating support to eligible organizations committed to state-level systemic change aligning with the foundation’s core values and vision. The Spring cycle is by invitation only, indicating a focused and strategic approach to partnering with organizations and initiatives that forward the foundation's mission of fostering a thriving, inclusive North Carolina.