Several organizations offer small business grants to support women entrepreneurs in North Carolina. Here are some potential sources to explore:
- North Carolina Rural Center – Women’s Business Center:
- The Women’s Business Center at the North Carolina Rural Center provides resources and support for women entrepreneurs. While they may not offer direct grants, they can guide you to potential funding opportunities.
- NC IDEA:
- NC IDEA is an organization that supports entrepreneurial endeavors in North Carolina. They provide grants and programs to help startups, including those led by women.
- Carolina Small Business Development Fund (CSBDF):
- CSBDF offers various loan programs and services to small businesses in North Carolina, including those owned by women. While they primarily provide financing, they can be a valuable resource.
- Golden LEAF Foundation:
- The Golden LEAF Foundation supports economic development in rural areas of North Carolina. While not exclusively for women, they offer grants and assistance programs that can benefit small businesses.
- NC Department of Administration – Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB):
- The HUB office in North Carolina focuses on supporting historically underutilized businesses, including those owned by women. Check their resources for potential grants and opportunities.
- Women’s Business Centers (WBCs):
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) funds Women’s Business Centers across the country. While not specific to North Carolina, they offer valuable resources and assistance that can include information on grants.
- Local Chambers of Commerce:
- Local chambers of commerce in North Carolina may have information on grants or programs specifically designed to support women-owned businesses. Reach out to your local chamber for guidance.
- North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys (NCAWA):
- Organizations like NCAWA may not directly offer grants, but they can provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and information on resources that can support women entrepreneurs.
- North Carolina IDEA Exchange (NCIDEA):
- NCIDEA is an organization that provides support for innovation and entrepreneurship in North Carolina. They offer grants and programs to help early-stage businesses.
- Local Community Foundations:
- Explore local community foundations in North Carolina. While they may not have specific grants for women-owned businesses, they might have programs supporting local economic development.
Always verify the current status of grant programs, eligibility criteria, and application processes. Additionally, consider reaching out to local business development centers, mentorship organizations, and networking groups for women entrepreneurs, as they may provide valuable insights into available resources and opportunities in North Carolina.