Four years ago, Charlotte Is Creative introduced the HUG (“Helpful Unfettered Gift”) Micro-Grant — $250 strings-free grants to remove an obstacle to a creative idea or project moving forward. This program is fueled by companies including NoDa Brewing, Google Fiber, Wells Fargo and individual donations of time and services.

Bigger HUGs

Earlier this year, the LendingTree Foundation donated funds to power “Bear HUGs” — $1,000 grants available to those creatives who put their initial $250 grant to good use.

In addition, the McColl Center partnered with the HUG program to make one of their new studio spaces available at no cost for four-month, project-driven mini-residencies. The next open call for this opportunity will be in January.

A Very Helpful HUG

To cap off an incredible year of growth for the HUG program, LendingTree has also underwritten the “Helping Hand HUG” — a $300 credit to the Charlotte Community ToolBank. This 12-month credit translates into $10,000 real-world value in tool and equipment rentals.

Tools available range from shovels, hammers and drills to tables, tents, chairs and more. See a complete list of ToolBank offerings here. A free ToolBank membership is required for those awarded this HUG.

The Helpful Hand HUG is available to charitable organizations in Mecklenburg County and individuals working with a charitable organization. Applications are always open.

Apply for a Helpful Hand HUG for December.