Applicants Sought for NC IDEA SEED Micro-Grant Pilot Program

North Carolina entrepreneurs looking to validate and advance their business startup ideas are being encouraged to apply now through May 14 for NC IDEA’s new “no strings attached” SEED Micro-Grant Pilot Program.

The program provides project-based grants of $1,000 to $10,000 to help young companies take their next step toward customer discovery, prototype development, marketing activities and more.

The NC IDEA grants are distributed from the NC IDEA Foundation, a private organization committed to supporting business innovation and economic advancement statewide.

The organization serves as a catalyst for young, high-growth technology companies by promoting initiatives that foster growth and helps these companies contribute to the state’s business community. Since its inception in 2006, NC IDEA’s core grant program has awarded more than $4.2 million to 104 companies across the state. It has also supported over 100 additional companies through its Durham-based startup program, Groundwork Labs.

This new SEED Micro-Grant Pilot Program is targeting people with an innovative product or business model with the ambition to achieve at least $1 million in revenues within five years. Besides the grant funding, the program offers mentorship and assistance, as well as access to an expansive network of advisors, partners and investors. 

NC IDEA is particularly looking for ideas from companies in North Carolina’s rural and distressed counties.

Here are some ways to get started:
•    Review the NC IDEA SEED Micro-Grant Pilot program details and eligibility
•    Attend a webinar on Thursday, April 26, to learn more (session will be recorded if you can’t attend)
•    Schedule Virtual Office Hours to get answers to your specific questions. (Limited spots remaining!)
•    Additional Questions? Email programs@ncidea.org
•    And when you’re ready …… APPLY NOW. (The online application is available only through May 14 at 5 p.m.)