CED Program

Community Economic Development (CED)

Helping community-based organizations start, grow,

and create positive change.

The CED Program provides technical assistance, legal services, and education for projects, organizations, and public policies that create more inclusive economic opportunities to build healthier and more resilient communities.   

 

Need Help?

Apply Online

Or call Pisgah Legal at (828) 253-0406 or toll-free at (800) 489-6144.

 

 

 How We Can Help:

We handle the legal side so organizations can focus on serving their communities. Our team provides: 

  • Guidance on incorporation and selecting organizational legal structures
  • Obtaining 501c3 status
  • Guidance on implementation of grants
  • Regulatory guidance
  • Drafting fiscal sponsorships, confidentiality, operating, and partnership agreements
  • Guidance on the development of affordable housing projects

“I don’t think I would have had the confidence to file the paperwork to become a nonprofit 501c3 organization without help from Pisgah Legal Services.”
– Aaron

Aaron Gilmour, Director of Operations
Appalachian Community Relief

 

When we help one organization move forward, the benefits spread to

families, neighborhoods, and entire communities.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of community-based projects do you help with?

In the CED Program, we are always looking for organizations and grassroots leaders for social justice in their communities who work to achieve lasting results in the most vulnerable communities first. Our team provides legal services, education, and capacity building support to community-based projects such as: 

  • Social enterprises providing living wage jobs and skills to people with barriers to employment
  • Startup nonprofits engaged in community economic development work
  • Community-led efforts to strengthen healthy communities and build opportunities for historically underserved populations 

What does your organization believe about supporting low-income communities?

We believe people in low-income communities know best what they need to improve their lives. Our work focuses on supporting their goals and directing resources in ways that help reduce income inequality across Western North Carolina. 

What types of organizations do you serve?

We prioritize organizations that work in one of these social impact areas: 

  • Affordable housing 
  • Disaster recovery 
  • Education
  • Health 
  • At-risk youth 
  • Food security 
  • Systems justice

I'm interested in starting a nonprofit. Where do I start?

Starting a nonprofit requires a strong legal foundation to grow, stay compliant, and serve your community effectively. Our CED team helps organizations navigate the legal issues, including bylaws, charitable solicitation licensing, and employment law.

Check out our Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Nonprofit 501c3 for information on getting started. 

Do you have examples of organizations that you've helped?

Yes, you can read about how we helped Appalachian Community Relief and Rebuild Hot Springs Area. You can find more examples in our latest CED brochure

 

More Resources

CED Brochure Cover

Community Economic Development Brochure

Guide to Becoming a Nonprofit 501c3

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Nonprofit 501c3