Small Business Grants in North Carolina (NC)

Securing a small business grant in North Carolina involves identifying relevant grant opportunities, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing a compelling application. Here are some of the most relevant grant opportunities for small businesses in North Carolina:

One North Carolina Small Business Program
This program is a key source of capital for North Carolina’s emerging technology companies. It supports early-stage companies at a critical point, shortening the time between their startup and the point where they become large, sustainable companies. Applications can be accepted until June 30, 2024, or until funds have been exhausted for the program’s 2023-24 fiscal year funding cycle.

Main Street Solutions Fund
This fund supports small businesses in designated micropolitans located in North Carolina. The grants assist planning agencies and small businesses with efforts to revitalize downtowns by funding infrastructure improvements and rehabilitating buildings.

NC Biotechnology Center Funds
NCBiotech offers several funding programs designed to fill gaps in technology development and commercialization. These funds help university researchers and companies conduct critical studies and reach significant milestones.

CornerSquare Community Capital
This is a new $40 million nonprofit fund announced by NC Rural Center and Truist Bank to support minority entrepreneurs and low-to-moderate income communities and individuals.

Downtown Raleigh Alliance Storefront Upfit Grant
The Downtown Raleigh Alliance (DRA) has awarded business owners grant funds through its Storefront Upfit Grant. The DRA focuses on spending these funds on minority-and women-owned businesses.

Duke Energy Hometown Revitalization Grant
This grant program was inspired by a successful collaboration between Duke Energy and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance. The grants allowed the establishments the opportunity to create outdoor seating and serving areas, develop eCommerce websites, repair window fronts, and upgrade health and safety elements.

Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG)
JDIG is a performance-based, discretionary incentive program that provides cash grants directly to new and expanding companies. Grants are only given when a company is in a competitive, recruitment, or retention phase. Payments are made annually for terms up to 12 years.

Queen City Women in Business
This organization offers mentorships and can connect entrepreneurs with funding and grants to get their businesses off the ground.

To apply for these grants, you typically need to contact the respective organization or agency, understand the eligibility criteria, and prepare a detailed application showcasing your business plan, financial projections, and how the grant will help your business grow. It’s also important to note that each grant has its own specific application process and deadlines, so it’s important to stay organized and adhere to these timelines.