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Startups Grants In North Carolina - 2024

Explore the most comprehensive List Of Startups Grants In North Carolina to fuel your business growth and innovation.

Lisa Shmulyan
Accounting & Tax
February 15, 2024

North Carolina provides a wide range of startup funding opportunities. These cover many sectors and focus on both mainstream and underrepresented groups. Cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and Durham see entrepreneurs getting millions in grants. These funds help with the early stages and business growth opportunities.

Funding includes nonprofit and small business grants. There's also money for agricultural research and tech accelerators for nonprofits. This support is vital for both starting and growing businesses1.

Groups like the North Carolina Business and Professional Women’s Clubs and SCORE offices offer guidance and mentorship. They play a big part in boosting the business scene1. The grant system is well-organized with set deadlines and clear criteria. This helps entrepreneurs find the right funding to move forward1.

Key Takeaways

  • North Carolina provides a wide array of grants to support startup businesses and entrepreneurial efforts.
  • Significant grants are available in key cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and Durham.
  • Entrepreneurs can access funding for various sectors, including technology, agriculture, and nonprofit organizations.
  • Resources from entities like SCORE and North Carolina Business and Professional Women’s Clubs offer critical support and mentorship.
  • Applications for grants are deadline-driven with specific eligibility criteria to streamline the application process.

Startup Grants for Early-Stage Development

In North Carolina, early-stage startups have many chances to get important seed funding NC startups require. This funding is crucial for helping new businesses grow and succeed. It ensures that bright new ideas can become real businesses.

Currently, entrepreneurs in the state can apply for 67 grants. These grants provide the early cash needed for new inventions2. The One North Carolina Small Business Program has helped over 400 companies. These companies then raised over $8 billion more3.

The Matching Funds program has $2.4 million ready this year. It supports North Carolina businesses that have won federal Phase I SBIR or STTR awards3. This shows the state's dedication to helping businesses grow and innovate.

Grants also focus on helping underserved and minority entrepreneurs, veterans, and military families. This way, a variety of startups can get help from these programs2. There's also help for tech nonprofits and medtech startups. These groups can work with partners worldwide, encouraging worldwide teamwork2.

These efforts and grant programs show how critical seed funding is for NC startups. They make it possible for North Carolina to support new businesses. Thanks to this, North Carolina is a top place for startups and new businesses to flourish.

Innovation Funding Opportunities in North Carolina

North Carolina offers many funding opportunities to help tech growth and support startups. These include research grants and contests for entrepreneurs. This makes the state a leading place for new ideas.

KickStart Awards Program

The KickStart Awards give up to $50,000 to startups from UNC-Chapel Hill. These startups must use University intellectual property. This effort is known as KickStart funding NC.

It aims to help businesses reach important growth milestones4. Entrepreneurs get special funds to speed up innovation, turning new concepts into market-ready products.

Technology Development Grants

The UNC Office of Technology Commercialization offers grants between $5,000 and $25,000. These funds help turn university tech into commercial successes. It provides vital technology advancement support4.

This approach makes sure innovative ideas get the support they need. It helps move from research to marketable products.

Entrepreneurial Support and Mentoring Programs

North Carolina is home to many programs that help startups grow. These include accelerators, mentorship, and business training5. Budding entrepreneurs get to meet others, learn new skills, and push their businesses forward.

E(I) Lab Program

The E(I) Lab Program mixes different fields to create new healthcare solutions. It offers money help and a chance to patent technologies. Participants enjoy a setting that encourages working together across disciplines and learning about social innovation.

Carolina Angel Network

The Carolina Angel Network helps UNC's entrepreneurs by offering early funds and advice from experts. It connects startups with experienced investors and leaders. This network is key to the success and growth of new businesses in the area.

Robert E. Bryan Fellowship

The Robert E. Bryan Fellowship helps those aiming to solve community problems. It teaches about social innovation while supporting projects with a big impact. This fellowship helps North Carolina students use what they know to tackle real-world issues.

Incubators and Accelerators

North Carolina is home to many startup incubators and accelerator programs designed to help entrepreneurs grow. These platforms offer support by providing funding, mentorship, and industry knowledge. They turn innovative ideas into successful companies.

1789 Student Venture Fund

The 1789 Student Venture Fund, at the University of North Carolina, gives essential seed funding to student entrepreneurs. It helps them make their business ideas a reality. By integrating students into a solid network of startup incubators in NC, this program boosts innovation and entrepreneurship.

Carolina Research Ventures (CRV)

Carolina Research Ventures (CRV) plays a key role in North Carolina's accelerator programs. It focuses on early-stage investments for university-based companies. CRV helps these companies grow by providing capital and industry insights.

This ecosystem is supported by other investment entities. For instance, RevTech Labs has invested in 52 companies since 2011, with one successful exit6. Meanwhile, NC IDEA SEED has funded 8 startups6. These organizations are essential in growing North Carolina's entrepreneurial scene.

Grants for Underserved and Minority Entrepreneurs

North Carolina has funding options that help minority and underserved entrepreneurs. These options include grants up to $10,000 and in-kind donations. They aim to boost entrepreneurship and cut income gaps.

Minority business grants NC belong to bigger federal efforts, which offer around $500 billion yearly7. Groups like MP Services, LLC offer training to support minority women in business. They provide workshops, networking, and training sessions7. These grant-funded programs improve business skills and use tech and AI to help minority owners7.

The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) helps by running centers that give business advice and financial aid to minorities7. Also, the SBA's 8(a) Program helps disadvantaged small businesses get federal contracts8.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, 21 percent of businesses are minority-owned. They've created almost five million jobs and made about $700 billion8. Still, less than 10 percent of these businesses had excellent financial health in 2022. This shows the ongoing need for financial help8. Many used personal savings for business costs, showing the value of underserved entrepreneur funding North Carolina8.

North Carolina offers 502 BIPOC Grants for diverse groups such as nonprofits and schools. These grants help Black, Indigenous, and People of Color as well as Native and Latinx communities. They vary in amounts, some offering up to $75,000 for arts nonprofits9. They support different community projects, improving things like economic literacy and miner safety9.

Programs like the Founders First Job Creators Quest Grant help create local jobs. They give funding and resources to 25 minority businesses in North Carolina8. The Wish Local Empowerment Grant offers $500 to $2,000 to help minority businesses grow. Alongside the USDA Rural Business Development Grant, these programs support small businesses needing funding8.

University-Sponsored Startup Grants

University-sponsored startup grants provide big financial help to eager entrepreneurs in North Carolina. They play a huge role in the world of academic grants for startups NC. They push forward innovation and growth in the economy.

UNC Health Enterprises

UNC Health Enterprises leads in bringing healthcare innovation in North Carolina. It starts new businesses and makes important partnerships within UNC Health and the UNC School of Medicine10. With support from the university, UNC Health Enterprises assists startups in creating new healthcare solutions. These solutions aim to make patient care better and bring in more money.

Center for Health Innovation Pilot Awards

The Center for Health Innovation Pilot Awards boosts innovative healthcare projects. It backs projects that introduce new tech, practices, and ideas in the healthcare field10. These projects tackle big health challenges and aim to make public health better. They help promising healthcare ideas in North Carolina become ready for the market.

Shuford Program in Entrepreneurship

The Shuford Program in Entrepreneurship at UNC boosts entrepreneurial skills by giving financial aid for student projects. This aid covers internships, study trips, and patents. It's vital in turning student ideas into real business ventures10.

By offering money, the Shuford Program lets students try different business ideas. Thus, it makes a big impact on the state's economy and health innovation.

Community and Local Government Grants

Local development grants in NC offer big chances for entrepreneurs looking to grow their ventures. These grants come from state and local governments. They help boost the economy of many areas in North Carolina. The USDA Rural Development gives out loans, grants, and loan guarantees. These are key in creating jobs and supporting growth in rural areas11. Also, the government helps with money for infrastructure, with USDOT providing grants for roads, railroads, and airports11.

Community grant opportunities in North Carolina are appealing because of the large funds available each year. The federal and local governments together provide over $36 billion for grants in North Carolina12. This shows the state's strong support for its local businesses and communities.

Looking into local development grants in NC shows many programs for specific community needs. The USA has over 750 community foundations working to make life better for people locally11. These foundations give money focused on solving unique local problems. They are very helpful for community projects.

For entrepreneurs in North Carolina, it's vital to know the different government-backed funding options. Information on these funds can be found in state government agency databases. It includes details on how to apply and who can get them. The official grants guide offers more detailed help11.

In North Carolina, there are 169,798 business places, with most being small businesses with up to 99 employees12. These small and medium businesses get a lot of support from local development grants in NC. This help is crucial for their growth and ongoing success in the state.

Nonprofit and For-Profit Startup Grants

In North Carolina, a wide array of grants are available for different startups. This includes support for nonprofits focused on community projects and tech startups pushing for innovation. For example, the Leon Levine Foundation gives nonprofit startup funding in NC. They help education, healthcare, and human services, especially for those less fortunate2. Also, there are grants for for-profit businesses in North Carolina, helping them grow.

Funding for Tech Startups

Tech startups in the state have many grant options. This includes funds for innovation, starting up, and business growth support. The state offers 67 different grants for new and growing businesses2. Programs also provide mentorship, networking, and access to high-tech resources.

Medtech Startup Accelerator

Medtech accelerator programs help medical tech startups a lot. They offer money, advice, mentorship, and top facilities. This helps startups from their beginning stages to getting into the market. They also have special grants for underserved groups, veterans, and minority businesses2.

Organizations like the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits and SCORE also help a lot. They offer workshops, training, and chances to connect with others. This makes sure both nonprofits and for-profits have what they need to succeed13.

Industry-Specific Grants

In North Carolina, grants designed for specific industries help a lot. Fields like tech, farming, and saving the environment get a boost. These grants are made to suit the special needs of businesses, helping them grow and bring new ideas to life. For instance, NC IDEA SEED grants $50K to fresh businesses with a big future in North Carolina14, and NC IDEA MICRO gives $10K and an eight-week course to new businesses in the state14.

The Rail Industrial Access Program uses state money to fix railroads. This helps new or growing businesses and boosts local economy efforts14. Also, specialized grants in North Carolina help small business owners. They push forward careers in STEM, and aid in life sciences research15.

RETOOLNC stands out by helping minority and women-owned businesses hit by COVID-19. It provides important funds to help them get through hard times14. There are 308 tech grants waiting, with deadlines from 09/04/24 to 09/15/24. These grants aim to spark innovation in different areas15.

Grants focusing on business through community and economic development are key in North Carolina. They push for growth in the economy and make communities better14. These grants back specific projects but also push research. They aim for tech progress and a happier society.

List Of Startups Grants In North Carolina

North Carolina is a supportive place for new businesses, offering many grants and funds. These help with entrepreneurial growth and research in farming. There's over $20,942.00 million in federal grants and $15,308.00 million from local sources available for entrepreneurs12.

Entrepreneur Grants and Fellowships

The NC IDEA MICRO grant gives $10,000 to startups checking their business ideas16. They get around 150-200 applications yearly, but only 15 win the grant16. Only companies based in North Carolina with at least one founder living there are considered16. Getting this grant also means getting help with customer research and launching products for eight weeks16.

Also, fellowships in North Carolina help new companies with advice and resources. There are many fellowships, each offering different types of help for your business to grow.

Agricultural Research and Educational Grants

North Carolina's economy benefits a lot from its 53,000 farms12. Funding for these farms ranges from $200,000 to $22,359,782, covering many areas like the environment and agriculture12. These funds help improve farming research and teach better farming methods and productivity.

North Carolina provides a lot of support for new businesses and agriculture through grants and funding. This shows the state’s dedication to innovation and economic growth at many levels.

Social Impact and Equity-Focused Grants

North Carolina offers many grants to help startups work on social impact and fairness. These grants aim to help female entrepreneurs and promote peace and understanding worldwide. They play a big role in making communities better and growing the state’s economy.

Grants for Female Entrepreneurs

A key example of these grants in North Carolina is for supporting women who start businesses. They offer money, advice, and mentors to help businesses grow in a lasting way. For example, since 2006, NC IDEA has given out over $23 million in grants. They focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping the state's economy grow through entrepreneurship17. Such efforts highlight the importance of fair funding for startups. They ensure women have what they need to be successful.

Davis Projects for Peace Award

The Davis Projects for Peace Award is important in North Carolina. It rewards projects that aim to understand and promote peace around the world. This award is great for young entrepreneurs wanting to make society better and support future leaders. Groups like SeaAhead Bluetech Innovation and Resilient Ventures also focus on fair startup funding. North Carolina is a supportive place for innovative ideas that tackle global issues18.

Hatteras Venture Partners and River Cities Capital Funds also play a big part. They invest a lot and support new startups18. To find more opportunities, visit GrantWatch.

These grants do more than just meet financial needs. They also aim to have a lasting effect on society by focusing on social fairness and community health. With support from big venture firms and grant makers, women and other less-represented groups can push their creative ideas further. This brings positive changes in many areas.

Conclusion

North Carolina is all about helping startups and entrepreneurs grow. It has lots of grants and funds ready for all stages of business. The Business Recovery Grant Program is key for industries getting back on their feet, offering precise aid19.

The One North Carolina Small Business Program helps create jobs and keep businesses going. This shows how committed the state is to a strong business environment20.

There's also special support for businesses that haven't had as many chances before. These financial boosts help businesses do more than just survive. They can draw big investments and stay stable20. In North Carolina, programs and funds have led to 1,200 new jobs. Plus, over $8 billion has come in from outside investments20.

About 70% of the small businesses that got help are still running in the state. This shows they're lasting and boosting the economy20.

This guide shows how North Carolina supports its startups big time. It's a reliable source of info for anyone looking to find funds. From university grants to local government help and industry-specific funds, it's all covered. This summary makes it clear that North Carolina is fully behind entrepreneurial dreams, aiming for a bright business future1920.

FAQ

What types of startup grants are available in North Carolina?

North Carolina hands out many grants for startups. These include funds for innovation, support for entrepreneurs, and seed money for new companies. There are also specific grants for industries and money aimed at helping minorities and those not often heard.

Are there specific grants for tech and medtech startups in North Carolina?

Yes. North Carolina has special grants for tech and medtech startups. These grants help with quick growth and fund projects that make health care better.

What is the KickStart Awards Program?

The KickStart Awards Program gives up to $50,000. It's for UNC-Chapel Hill startups based on University ideas to reach big goals.

How can early-stage startups in North Carolina secure seed funding?

Early-stage startups have options for seed funding through different programs. The 1789 Student Venture Fund and Carolina Research Ventures are examples. North Carolina's startup community provides these chances.

What support is available for minority-owned small businesses?

North Carolina supports minority-owned small businesses with grants up to $10,000. They also offer in-kind donations to help these businesses grow and support new entrepreneurs.

Are there any university-sponsored startup grants in North Carolina?

There are many university-sponsored grants. These include UNC Health Enterprises and the Center for Health Innovation Pilot Awards. The Shuford Program in Entrepreneurship also offers financial aid for startups.

What entrepreneurial support and mentoring programs are available in North Carolina?

Numerous programs provide entrepreneurial support. The E(I) Lab and Carolina Angel Network offer mentoring, networking, and funding. The Robert E. Bryan Fellowship is another key source of support.

How can startups find local government grants in North Carolina?

Startups can look up local and community grants through state databases. These grants aim to improve local economies by funding businesses.

Are there grants specifically for social impact and equity-focused projects?

Certain grants aim at social impact and equity. They support women entrepreneurs and initiatives like the Davis Projects for Peace Award. These projects strive to create fairness and peace.

What is the purpose of industry-specific grants in North Carolina?

Industry-specific grants offer precise funding for various sectors. Fields like life sciences and technology benefit. These grants aim to spur innovations that help the public.

How can entrepreneurs apply for agricultural research and educational grants?

Entrepreneurs looking for agricultural grants can browse through directories. These listings show what's needed to apply, deadlines, and what the grants cover.

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