The Carolina Hurricanes Foundation has announced it will begin accepting applications for its 2026 grant cycle from March 9 through April 10. The Foundation, led by Executive Director Amy Daniels, will focus on supporting organizations that address the health and educational needs of children in underserved communities, as well as those working to expand youth hockey programs across North Carolina.
“We’re excited to open our spring grant cycle and reaffirm our commitment to improving the health, well-being, and opportunities of children across our state,” said Amy Daniels, Executive Director of the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation. “By investing in initiatives that promote physical and mental health, expand educational access, and strengthen youth hockey, we aim to equip young people with the foundation they need to thrive as athletes, leaders and changemakers.”
Two types of grants are available this cycle: Game Changer Grants—ranging from $10,000 to $20,000—for significant programmatic impact; and Future Canes Grants aimed at growing youth hockey accessibility at varying funding levels based on need.
Organizations interested in applying can submit their proposals during the application window. Previous recipients of Game Changer Grants include groups such as Arts For Life, Book Harvest, Boys and Girls Club of Wake County Inc., Girl Scouts North Carolina Coastal Pines, United Arts Council, Wake Education Partnership, GiGi’s Playhouse – Raleigh LLC, NeighborHealth Center, Note in the Pocket, Table, Tammy Lynn Center, The Alice Aycock Poe Center for Health Education, The Foundation of Hope for Research & Treatment of Mental Illness and YMCA of the Triangle. Prior Future Canes Grant recipients have included local hockey associations like Cape Fear Youth Hockey Association and Greensboro Youth Hockey Association.
During the 2024-25 season, the Hurricanes organization also supported hurricane recovery efforts in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene caused significant damage. Fans and team members raised over $1 million for rebuilding efforts in affected communities. All funds were distributed to non-profit groups aiding recovery while maintaining a focus on youth-oriented initiatives.
Since its establishment in 1997, the Foundation has donated more than $17 million in grants and support to organizations serving young people. As part of its broader community involvement efforts both on and off the ice—including using its home venue at Lenovo Center which accommodates up to 20,000 people—the Hurricanes contribute over $200 million annually to the local economy through events and engagement activities (https://www.lenovocenter.com/arena-info/venue-facts-history).
The Lenovo Center itself features over 700,000 square feet with multiple seating levels and amenities such as suites and concession stands (https://www.lenovocenter.com/arena-info/venue-facts-history). In addition to their philanthropic work through the Foundation, the Hurricanes have achieved recognition for milestones including winning the Stanley Cup in 2006 (https://www.nhl.com/hurricanes/team/hall-of-fame) and honoring notable players like Eric Staal in their Hall of Fame (https://www.nhl.com/hurricanes/team/hall-of-fame).
For further information or assistance regarding grant applications or processes related to this cycle’s funding opportunities with the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation or questions about eligibility criteria or deadlines should be directed to Amy Daniels.
