INVESTING WITH PURPOSE

Anchor Impact Fund

For 25 years and counting, we’ve had the privilege of helping individuals and families build strong financial futures. No matter how markets shift or priorities evolve, our focus remains the same: to bring clarity, guidance and intention to every decision, helping our clients use their resources in ways that truly matter.

That long-term perspective shapes not only how we advise, but how we show up for the people and communities we serve. Giving back has always been part of who we are. We believe meaningful impact happens close to home — for our clients and for our communities.

This commitment is reflected in the creation of the Anchor Impact Fund, our donor-advised grant making program supporting nonprofits across the Midlands.

GIVING BACK TO THE MIDLANDS

Supporting Our Communities

Over the years, we have supported clients in directing charitable contributions through legacy planning, strategic giving and ongoing advisory guidance. The Anchor Impact Fund is a continuation of that legacy — a charitable giving initiative established in honor of the firm’s 25th anniversary.

Rooted in our long-standing commitment to service and community, funding is designed to support focused, high-impact projects or capacity-building efforts that align with local needs.

Guided by this purpose, the Anchor Impact Fund focuses on four pillars that reflect the needs and strengths of our community:

HEALTH

Improves physical, mental and emotional health.

EDUCATION

Strengthens educational outcomes for children, youth and adults.

FAMILIES

Promotes family stability, safety and resilience.

COMMUNITIES

Builds stronger, more connected and thriving communities.

FAQs

What is the Anchor Impact Fund?

The Anchor Impact Fund is a donor-advised fund established by Anchor Investment Management to support nonprofit organizations serving the Midlands Region. The fund provides $500-$5,000 grants to support high-impact projects that strengthen community well-being.

What types of organizations are eligible to apply?

Applicants must be:

  • A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in good standing.
  • Primarily serving communities in the Midlands Region.
  • Proposing a project aligned with one of the fund’s focus areas.
  • Able to begin the project by the applicable start date.

What geographic area is considered the Midlands Region?

The Midlands Region includes the counties and communities typically recognized as central South Carolina. Organizations should clearly describe how their work benefits Midlands residents.

What are the funding focus areas?

The Anchor Impact Fund supports projects in four areas:

  • Health: supports programs and services that improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals. Projects may focus on prevention, direct care, access to services or health education.
  • Education: supports initiatives that improve learning outcomes for people of all ages. This includes academic achievement, skill development, literacy and preparation for future success.
  • Families: supports programs that strengthen family stability, safety, and resilience. Projects may serve parents, children, caregivers or whole households to ensure families have what they need to thrive.
  • Communities: supports initiatives that improve the social, civic and structural conditions that help neighborhoods and groups thrive. These projects foster connection, safety and collective well-being.

How do the grant cycles work?

There are two grant cycles each year:

  • Cycle 1 (Health & Education)
    Applications due April 1 | Projects begin July 1
  • Cycle 2 (Families & Communities)
    Applications due September 1 | Projects begin January 1

Applicants must apply in the cycle that matches their project focus.

Can a project address more than one focus area?

Yes. Integrated projects are welcome, as long as they clearly align with the primary focus area for the selected grant cycle.

How much funding is available?

Grant awards range from $500 to $5,000.

What can grant funds be used for?

Funds may support:

  • Program or project expenses
  • Capacity-building efforts
  • Staffing time, supplies, training, evaluation, or participant support

What types of projects are typically not funded?

The fund generally does not support:

  • Fundraising events, galas or sponsorships
  • Capital campaigns or major construction projects
  • One-time events with limited long-term impact
  • Projects serving regions outside the Midlands

How many applications may an organization submit?

Organizations may submit one application per grant cycle.

What materials are required to complete the application?

Required attachments include the following, as outlined in the application form.

  • Completed application
  • IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter
  • Most recent annual operating budget
  • Most recent audited financial statement or IRS Form 990
  • Board of Directors list with affiliations
  • Project budget

What happens if my application is incomplete?

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Applicants are encouraged to confirm all required fields and attachments before submitting.

How are applications reviewed?

Applications are reviewed based on:

  • Alignment with funding priorities
  • Demonstrated community need
  • Clarity of project plan and outcomes
  • Organizational capacity to implement the project

When will applicants be notified?

Applicants will be notified after the review process is complete for each cycle. Award timelines will be communicated on the website and via email.

Can we apply if we are a new or small organization?

Yes. The Anchor Impact Fund welcomes applications from organizations of all sizes, as long as they meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate the capacity to carry out the proposed project.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

For questions about eligibility, fit, or the application process, please contact the Anchor Impact Fund team at grants@anchorim.com.

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