Grant funding can be a powerful catalyst for both small businesses and nonprofit organizations, providing the financial resources needed to transform ideas into meaningful impact. For entrepreneurs, grants can support business growth, product development, research, innovation, and market expansion. For nonprofits, grant funding often serves as a critical source of support for programs, community initiatives, capacity building, and mission-driven projects. Unlike traditional loans, grants typically do not require repayment, making them an attractive funding option for organizations seeking to create sustainable growth and positive change.

However, navigating the grant landscape can be challenging. Success requires a strategic approach to identifying funding opportunities, understanding eligibility requirements, developing compelling proposals, and demonstrating the potential impact of your work. Whether you are launching a new business, expanding an existing organization, or advancing a nonprofit mission, this section will guide you through the fundamentals of grant writing and funding development. You’ll gain practical knowledge, proven strategies, and valuable resources to help secure the funding needed to achieve your goals and maximize your impact.

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.

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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.

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