Empowering Entrepreneurs
Grant funding can be a game-changer for small businesses by providing the financial support needed to turn innovative ideas into reality. Unlike traditional loans, grants offer funding without the burden of repayment, making them an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to scale their operations, invest in research, or launch new products. However, navigating the grant landscape can be complex, requiring a strategic approach to identifying opportunities, crafting compelling proposals, and meeting eligibility requirements. This section will guide you through the essentials of grant writing and funding opportunities, equipping you with the knowledge and tools you need to secure resources for your business.
Blog Posts
Small Business Funding Opportunities
SBIR/STTR Seed Funding
The National Science Foundation provides funding for scientific and engineering breakthroughs, transforming them into impactful products and services for society and commerce.
NC IDEA
NC IDEA is a private, independent 501(c)(3) foundation dedicated to helping North Carolinians fulfill their entrepreneurial goals.
NC Biotech
NCBiotech provides a variety of business funding programs to bridge gaps in technology development and company growth, allowing companies to achieve key development milestones
Workforce Training Grants
Supported by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, these job training resource grants help businesses thrive and succeed by providing employees career advancement opportunities.
One North Carolina
The One North Carolina Small Business Program provides financial support to North Carolina businesses operating in capital-intensive and high-risk industries, specifically in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.
State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
The N.C. Passport to Export program was established to assist small businesses in expanding their global reach by increasing the number of small businesses involved in exporting.
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation aims to improve global underserved communities by supporting innovative social entrepreneurs with scalable solutions, providing early-stage capacity, capital, and community.
Dogwood health trust Innovation & Collaboration
This grant opportunity aims to support both new and ongoing partnerships that are addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from Hurricane Helene, with a special focus on envisioning innovative futures for the WNC region.
Pitch Competitions
The Big Launch Challenge
The Launch Place aims to create an environment where new and experienced entrepreneurs can secure funding and access the necessary support to bring their products and solutions to market.
Dig South Wild Pitch Event
“Dig Nation is the leading tech membership community for executives and entrepreneurs in the South. This dynamic hub is where innovation and inspiration converge. Dig Nation is where tech prospers and ideas come to life.
Dolphin Tank® Pitch Competition
Springboard’s Dolphin Tank showcase events harness the strength of their community to support women entrepreneurs pioneering in Life Sciences, Healthcare, Technology, and beyond.
Duke Cyber Pitch Competition
Got a business idea in cybersecurity, data protection, privacy, or cyber safety? Selected applicants will pitch to investment experts for a chance to win a $25,000 top prize and other prizes for finalists!
Folla Capital Crowdfunding
Folla Capital assists small business owners and entrepreneurs in raising capital, small business planning, and broker deals by offering comprehensive investment banking advisory services for startups, active companies, and those engaged in mergers and acquisitions.
IdeaFest
“IdeaFest is a dynamic and rapid business pitch competition where 20 finalists present their original business ideas to a panel of expert judges and a live audience, vying for $10,000 in prize money. The top three winners will receive $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third place.
Beyond Authority 
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